Few sessions make me smile as widely as this one has. Ever since I captured Felix and Samelle’s film maternity photography, I can’t help thinking that their baby is about to be the coolest newborn in Philadelphia! From their fashion to location choices, this couple had a specific vision full of nostalgia, warmth, and originality going into their session. And the best part is, this maternity shoot was captured entirely on film. Basically, my dream come true! Let’s take a look at this chic indoor-outdoor session and everything that made it one of a kind.
Rooftop Maternity Photos with the Philadelphia Skyline
We started up on their rooftop, with the city skyline sparkling behind them under a clear sky. Felix wore soft, earthy brown and Samelle wore a sky blue crochet top. It’s easy to see why this palette worked so well on film. For a few frames, Samelle accessorized with a blue and yellow silk headscarf and sunnies that fully completed this look!
I felt like I could have been photographing them for a vintage catalog. Yet they were both so humble and natural in front of the camera; it was easy for me to fade into the backdrop and simply let them enjoy each other’s company while my shutter silently clicked away. These two are such a vibe!
If you don’t have your own private rooftop access, not to worry. Check out 40 of Philadelphia’s most unique vantage points for inspiration before your own rooftop photoshoot in the city.
Indoor Film Maternity Photography at Home
Next we moved indoors in their impeccably curated home. The midcentury furniture, the patterns, and even the artwork matched their laid-back style, and all of it was made for film grain. Felix and Samelle wore the same outfits but went barefoot throughout this portion of the session. I had them pose on different pieces of furniture throughout their home in various snuggly and comfortable poses.
The deep green corduroy couch and textured lounge chair added an element of comfort and homey-ness, which is exactly what you want when you’re nesting. Preparing to welcome your newborn child into your space is such an important ritual, and how much more special will the photos be when they can recreate them with their precious baby in the same space a few months from now?
If you’re in the middle of preparing your own home or helping someone who is, my gift ideas for expectant parents might help.
Outdoor Maternity Session in a Philadelphia Park
For the last stretch, we headed to a lush green park close to home. Felix and Samelle changed into classic denim-on-denim looks, and I love how the light wash popped against this backdrop of endless green. We captured a few frames with their ultrasound scans and Samelle’s baby bump, and they even brought props that added texture and some fun.
Here Samelle changed into her final outfit of the day: a flowy white peasant top and sheer white maxi skirt. She looked and photographed like an absolute dream! Even Felix couldn’t stop himself from snapping a few portraits of his glowing partner. After that, they settled onto a blanket with a picnic basket and looked like the only two people in the park, soaking up their last quiet days before everything changes. It was magic to capture their love and excitement before welcoming a new life into the world!
Why Choose Film for a Maternity Shoot?
Film gives maternity portraits a warmth and a grain that digital doesn’t, and it tends to record how a moment felt as well as how it looked. It also slows everything down. I wait for the real moments instead of firing off hundreds of frames, and the images come out feeling like a family heirloom. It’s a big reason I keep returning to film for pregnancy sessions, and the main reason it suited Felix and Samelle so well.
Felix and Samelle were the most stylish and put together couple, and we had a blast capturing these frames together. I know their baby will be the absolute coolest little one on the planet with parents like these!
Samantha Jay Photo offers intentional, organic, heirloom quality images for families who value tangible memories. Explore her Philadelphia maternity photographer page, or see her newborn photography in West Chester, PA. If you’re expecting and want a film maternity photography session of your own, let’s connect whenever you’re ready.
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