REDEFINE | The 4th Trimester feature by Lee Pettigrew Photography

“There is only one sun. We can’t all claim to only have one way to use the light, but we can REDEFINE how we choose to express it. “

 

Tell us about what drives your work, How did you get started?

To be honest, when I first started, I was a little lost. I mean, who isn’t!? I felt pushed in the direction to do posed work. I thought that was the only way I could have a business and I knew I wanted to provide others with lasting memories. What I was capturing wasn’t speaking to my heart. It didn’t make me FEEL. I wanted people to FEEL something when they looked at their images. I photographed my first birth (which is something I always wanted to do) and I was hooked. It’s truly an incredible experience watching someone give birth. It gives me an adrenaline rush and I end up crying at every one. Slowly, but surely, I began phasing out the posed sessions. I’m finally where I want to be. I had to realize I am not for everybody and that’s okay.

What were the challenges for you in the beginning?

My greatest obstacle was myself and still is today sometimes. I question everything and put a lot of pressure on myself. It really helps to jam to music on my way to sessions to loosen up a bit.

Why are you passionate about this topic?

The struggles of motherhood aren’t talked about enough. Knowing you’re not the only one is so important and makes things less lonely. Women can relate to these images and it gets them to connect. These moments are REAL.

What are the tips you would share with anyone trying a project like capturing the beauty of postpartum?

Don’t expect perfection. Embrace the rawness and focus on the moment. I try to feel one with my clients. I put myself in their shoes and I take on their emotions. Document everything. Even small things that you think aren’t important. And, of course, have fun!

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ABOUT THE ARTIST :

I am a birth and motherhood photographer in Northern Virginia. I live for natural and raw moments. It is my goal to make you feel and connect with my images.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST

 

 

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