Christine & Phoenix: A year of motherhood in bloom – Apple Grove Studio
Natural outdoor and studio motherhood photoshoots in London.
The first year of motherhood is unlike any other. It’s filled with firsts — not only for your baby, but for you, too. The first time you hear them laugh, the first time they reach for you, the first steps, the first words. And somewhere between the nappies and the cuddles, the sleepless nights and the endless love, you begin to grow into a version of yourself you didn’t know existed.
This session with Christine and her baby boy, Phoenix, was about pressing pause. About soaking in the now — the messy, magical, fleeting beauty of this season — before it quietly shifts into the next.
Phoenix was 18 months old. That soft, golden age where babyhood begins to melt into toddlerhood. Where curiosity takes over. Where tiny feet begin to take bold, wobbly steps toward independence — always with a glance back to make sure you’re still close.
We didn’t come into this session with rigid plans or perfectly curated moments. That’s not what these sessions are about. Instead, we followed the rhythm of the day. We embraced the simplicity of just being outdoors together. Christine held Phoenix close as they wandered by the water’s edge, her skirt brushing the grass, his small body warm against hers. They moved slowly, naturally, with the kind of ease that comes from being completely present.
There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a mother in the frame. Not styled, not posed, not performing — but simply being. Being the anchor, the comfort, the safe place. Being fully seen in a role that so often goes undocumented. These images tell a story that words can’t quite capture. A story that Phoenix will one day look back on and say, “There she is. That’s how much she loved me.”
Watching them together was a quiet kind of magic. Phoenix exploring with wide-eyed wonder, reaching for flowers, touching dandelions, taking it all in. Christine beside him, guiding, smiling, offering her hand — not to lead, but to support. Letting him discover the world in his own time, on his own terms.
This session wasn’t just about celebrating Phoenix turning one. It was also about honouring the journey Christine has been on — the transformation that happens within a woman when she becomes a mother. It's a milestone for both of them. And it deserved to be held, witnessed, and remembered.
There is immense value in pausing to capture this connection — not for social media, not for a milestone checklist, but for your heart. For the memories that will otherwise slip quietly away. For the moments that feel ordinary now, but will feel extraordinary in hindsight.
If you're wondering whether it’s worth stepping in front of the camera with your child, the answer is yes. These days are precious, and they pass far too quickly. Don’t wait for a “better” time. The perfect weight, the right season, the dream outfit — none of it matters as much as being there. Let them see you. Let them remember this love, this tenderness, this season of growing up together.
If this season is calling to be remembered, I’d love to create space for you in front of the lens. Whether you’re marking a milestone like a first birthday, or simply wanting to honour the everyday beauty of motherhood — let’s document it, gently and honestly.
“Alina is a truly special photographer with an eye for capturing the most moving and natural moments. Her warm style that I feel bridges modern family photography and an editorial feel, brings character, story telling and emotion to the photos. Which make for incredible prints. I absolutely love her work and the two photoshoots I've had with her since I had my baby boy. She is a dream to work with and makes you feel so comfortable and at ease. Thank you again Alina. You're magic.” -Christine
Get in touch to book your session or learn more about motherhood photography here.
With warmth,
Alina
Apple Grove Studio – Maternity & Family Photography
