Sunset Maternity Session at Whitefish Lake in Montana
Whitefish Lake, located in northwestern Montana, has a history dating back to the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived. Historically, the Salish, Kootenai, and Flathead tribes, along with many others, called the area surrounding Whitefish Lake home. Lewis and Clark, during their expedition in 1805- 1806, documented their exploration in nearby areas as well. When the railways began to expand across western America, the Great Northern Railway of the early 1900s played a significant role in the growth of Whitefish as a town; it functioned as a facility of transportation, trade, and tourism.
Both times I’ve gone to Montana, I was lucky enough to visit in the summer. Montana, also known as “Big Sky Country,” is known for its beautiful and vast landscapes. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, rafting, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more. Montana’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife; this includes elk, bison, bears, wolves, and more. I had the immense pleasure of witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat on both of my Montana visits.
Whitefish Lake was teeming with families enjoying the beautiful summer Montana weather, both from the beach and the lake!
During my most recent visit, I had the pleasure of photographing Taylor (@coach.t.riggs) & Joey (@joey42michael) during the third trimester of Taylor’s pregnancy. This was her third pregnancy, and she absolutely stunned at the lake in a mesh gown. As the golden sun began its descent over the busy, yet tranquil waters of Whitefish Lake, a magical scene was set for Taylor and Joey’s photo session. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of “Big Sky Country,” this lakeside setting served as a naturally beautiful canvas for these portraits of radiant anticipation.
Celebrating the boundless love that accompanies new beginnings, Taylor and Joey held hands and strolled along the lake. They gazed into each other’s eyes with love and admiration for one another. I made sure to capture Taylor holding her stomach, reflecting the depth of her connection to the life growing within her. Just one simple touch on her belly conveyed the quiet conversations shared between mother and offspring, while her gaze into the distance held promises of a future filled with wonder and love.
As the sun continued to set, the beach and lake became less and less crowded by the moment. The now ever-so-serene lake mirrored the stillness of the moment, creating an ethereal backdrop of sky and mountains. Taylor and Joey moved with such a natural grace; it was hard to not notice the love flowing between the two of them. As Taylor sat. back on a large rock on the shoreline, her smile captured the blend of joy and contemplation that accompanies the waiting period before new life’s arrival.
As blue hour set in and the last of the boats had departed, we walked along the now-empty dock. Taylor and Joey, in Montana’s embrace, were absolutely radiant. Under the warm-turned-cool hues of the lakeside sunset, a timeless collection of images was created. Congratulations, Taylor and Joey!
