I grew up in Florida, so when I awoke to snow in Sheffield one morning, to say that I was beyond excited is a bit of an understatement. With the lockdown and increased tier restrictions in the UK due to COVID-19, hiring a photographer hasn’t been the easiest thing, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on some beautiful maternity photos if you want them.

I took the dogs out for a walk in the snow (they loved it) and then I rushed back to quickly throw on a pretty dress to take some photos.

When photographing in the snow, particularly if it’s still snowing or you’re under trees in the forest (like me), it’s important to remember that your camera equipment will probably get wet.

Wrap your camera or phone in a plastic bag or cling film to protect it from snow or wet.

I used cling film around my camera lens with a rubber band. I kept the lens itself free from plastic or obstructions so as not to interfere with the photos themselves. I then used a plastic sandwich bag around the body of my camera to protect it.

I connected my camera wirelessly to my phone to get myself in the frame and how I wanted it. Once positioned, I marked my spot in the snow with my boot. I then set my camera on a timer as I didn’t want my phone in the photos nor did I have anywhere to hide my phone easily to use it as a remote.

I’m really happy with the way these wintery maternity self portraits turned out. I haven’t had the easiest pregnancy (I had hyperemesis for the first 6 months), but I’m really glad I took a bit of time to throw on a dress and take some photos. You don’t need a face full of makeup or your hair done up professionally for photos. I took these straight after a dog walk and hike to the woods. But of course, if doing those things makes you feel great, then do those things! It’s all about what makes you feel good, comfortable, and happy.