As a photographer, I’ve had my share of breathtaking moments, but nothing could prepare me for the magic of capturing a maternity shoot during a solar eclipse. My daughter in law, radiant and glowing with anticipation, suggested this remarkable idea, and I was instantly captivated.
Living in Florida, we were fortunate to experience an astounding 99 percent totality. The thrill was real as we prepared to witness this celestial phenomenon. However, I faced a significant challenge: without a solar filter for my lens, I had to devise a clever solution. Picture me, squinting into the sky, balancing eclipse glasses over my lens, all while trying to avoid a direct gaze at the sun. It was a delicate dance, but one worth every effort.
We chose a beautiful spot, a picturesque location that felt perfect for our shoot. As the eclipse began, the atmosphere transformed. The world dimmed, and a surreal glow enveloped everything. My daughter-in-law, dressed in a flowing teal gown, stood there like a vision from another realm. It was as if the universe conspired to create this stunning tableau.
Not every shot included the eclipse in the frame, but the play of light was simply enchanting. Each click of the shutter captured not only her beauty but also the ethereal quality of the moment. The challenge of merging two images into one stunning composite was a creative endeavor, as the sun was too high to capture both elements in a single frame. But the result? Pure magic.
This experience felt especially poignant. With the joy of two healthy children and the heartache of losing a stillborn daughter, we knew that this moment deserved to be celebrated. It was a tribute to the miracle of new life—a cosmic alignment that mirrored our own family’s journey.
“When it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, do it in style,” she said, and that sentiment resonated deeply with me. Every shot reminded me of the beauty and fragility of life, capturing not just a moment, but a feeling that transcended time.
As I reflect on that day, I am filled with gratitude. The photos we created are more than just images; they’re a celebration of love, hope, and new beginnings beneath the vast cosmos. I can’t wait for the new arrival, a shining star destined to join our family. This shoot was truly out of this world!