Maternity Photography Session at the University of Florida's Museum of Natural History
This maternity photography session at the University of Florida’s Natural History Museum is still one of the most fun shoots I’ve ever done! A little backstory: it was insanely hot here last summer when Maria first reached out to me about maternity photos. She also had a young son who probably wouldn’t be too thrilled about the heat so we started thinking about locations where we could stay indoors and still capture something unique. After wracking our brains, we reached out to Amber Tison at the Natural History Museum who is also a member of the Gainvesville Professional Wedding Vendor Group with me.
This museum is incredible. Really, it’s one of Gainesville’s gems. In addition to its state of the art rainforest butterfly exhibit, it also teaches conservation, Florida history, and biology to the next generation. Some of my favorite photographers, John Moran and Brian Kakuk, have their images displayed- some right next to the interactive prehistoric video that superimposes mammoths and saber-toothed cats alongside museum visitors. There is also a brand new area for kids where they can touch, listen, and play- it’s a huge favorite in our home! We began our shoot in the butterfly exhibit, while we had beautiful morning light.
Next we progressed to the mammoth skeleton and then to the inside butterfly display. Will had the amazing idea to toss the train in the shape of butterfly wings and this image was created. We ventured through many of the museum’s corridors, capturing a huge variety of shots. At the end, we had Maria’s husband, mom, and young son join us near the cave area for family photos. I am so, so thankful for the clients who trust us to create with them and for this beautiful museum we had the opportunity to shoot at. Did you know they also are available for weddings? Hint, hint…
Be sure to check out some of our maternity sessions in more historical locations including our underwater maternity photography in Florida’s beautiful natural springs!