One of my favorite events of the entire busy holiday season is our very own Santa Experience here at Liz Cook Photography where we offer Santa Pictures in a personal, private setting here in Central Virginia. For multiple days in a row, my team and I get to watch magic unfold before our eyes as children enjoy one-on-one conversations with Santa in the privacy of our studio.
Every year I have the privilege of getting to reconnect with families during the Fall Portrait Season. For three to four weeks every October/November I squeeze in as many sessions as possible and I love hearing all the life updates from my repeat clients at every one of them. I especially love when I get to meet NEW faces and capture new families!
I had the most wonderful visit with J & A and their newborn twins at their In-Home Newborn Lifestyle Session! I love these sessions because there truly is something special about capturing this season as it is, in your environment where the growth and developing is happening. I have had three Newborn Sessions for my three kiddos and the one we had done in our own bedroom truly holds a special place in my heart!
As a photographer based in the heart of Central Virginia, I feel so privileged to capture the meaningful moments and connections of families in this beautiful region. From the charming small towns like Lynchburg, Bedford, Roanoke, Appomattox, Charlottesville, and Danville, to the stunning natural backdrops of rolling hills and fields, there’s endless inspiration all around me. Every photography session allows me to celebrate the lives of the wonderful people here.
My journey to professional photography began when I established Liz Cook Photography in 2006. What started as a passion quickly turned into my true calling as more and more friends, friends of friends, and even strangers began hiring me for family portraits. Since then, I've had the immense honor of documenting precious memories for families across Central Virginia.
Through my camera's lens, I get to witness some of life's most profound moments - growing baby bumps, those first newborn snuggles, toddlers' curious explorations, the tight-knit bonds between siblings. There's something incredibly special about being trusted to capture such personal, fleeting periods of transition and growth.
The beauty of maternity and newborn sessions is preserving that miraculous beginning, freezing in time the awestruck expressions and overwhelming love. Family portraits create lasting heirlooms celebrating the unbreakable connections between parents, children, and generations. My images become treasured reminders to look back on when the whirlwind of life forces us to miss so many subtle moments in real-time.
This region's natural scenery is a photographer's dream, especially in the soft fields and blooming gardens that I adore. I focus on capturing the beauty of nature mainly in three locations: my studio, serene fields, and lush gardens. Whether your choice is indoors or outdoors, I aim to highlight the authentic emotions and romantic intimacy between you and your partner. I tend to make you and your partner (anyone involved in the maternity photos) feel comfortable and capture their true personalities. This way, the resulting images radiate pure joy and connection.
More than just creating beautiful photos, the greatest gift of this work is the personal bonds I form with clients by being invited into their lives during profound times of change and growth. I become a friendly source of reassurance for expectant mothers, a calming presence allowing genuine emotions to shine, and oftentimes a trusted resource to turn to for recommendations on anything family-related.
It means everything to me when clients return year after year, watching their families evolve and expand with each visit. Knowing my images will be cherished for generations as constant reminders of their most precious memories - that's the true magic of photography.
Being based in Central Virginia has allowed me to build a strong network of support around the families I work with. From connecting new parents with caring birthing professionals to sharing trusted contractors and small businesses, I strive to be a resource for far more than just photos.
This incredible community drives me to constantly improve my skills, evolve my art, and use my business to uplift local families. As a Central Virginia photographer, each session is an opportunity to celebrate the lives, connections and beauty that make this area so unbelievably special. I feel tremendously grateful to do this meaningful work in such a wonderful place.
If you want to capture long-lasting memories with your lovely family, contact me today.
Preparing for your maternity photography session is an exciting time! Those special moments capturing the beauty of pregnancy are ones you'll cherish forever. As a professional maternity photographer in Lynchburg, Virginia, I want to ensure you have the best experience possible. Let's go over some tips to get ready for your portrait session.
For maternity portraits, timing is everything! You'll want to schedule your session when you're in your second trimester. At this stage, your beautiful baby bump has really popped and has that gorgeous round shape.
If you're having twins or triplets, I recommend connecting with me a bit sooner for a free maternity photoshoot consultation than your second trimester, since multiples tend to arrive earlier. Whenever you schedule, be sure to book well in advance to reserve your preferred date!
This is such an amazing, glowing time in your life - let's capture that radiance! When you book a maternity session with us, you will feel pampered and relaxed.
Looking and feeling your best will have you overflowing with confidence in front of the camera. You deserve this self-care mama! I offer add-ons for make-up and hair sessions as well so you can relax as we take care of you and pamper you! For maternity sessions, our stylist would come to your home before the session to get you pampered and ready for the shoot.
Rest assured, our hair and makeup artists are the best in the area and specialize in enhancing your natural beauty.
I offer free wardrobe consultation and have an extensive maternity wear collection you're welcome to use (without additional charges) during your session. Just let me know if you'd like to browse options or if you have a specific look in mind.
Don't be afraid to show off that belly! What you wear for your maternity photos is essential for highlighting your bump. Avoid any oversized, loose, or bulky clothing that can distract from your curves. Instead, opt for:
● Form-fitting stretchy fabrics that skim over your belly
● Maxi dresses or gowns that accentuate your figure
● Wraps or gowns that can be opened to feature your bump
● Flowy tops or empire waistlines
I focus on capturing the sweet connections between you and your loved ones. Whether it's the tender moments with your partner, the excitement of older siblings, or the support of close family and friends, these interactions create the most heartfelt images.
The love and bond you share during this time are what make your maternity session special. I’ll guide you in showcasing these beautiful relationships, ensuring that your maternity portraits reflect the unique journey you're on together.
Though the focus will be on you and your bump, maternity sessions are a wonderful way to celebrate the entire family. Don't forget:
● Invite your partner for maternity shoot
● Get siblings' adorable reactions by including them
● Plan a special family outing after to continue the celebration
Making it a family affair creates priceless memories you'll cherish forever.
Note: I offer wardrobe advice for all people to be included in the maternity photos and offer wardrobe choices for you (mama-to-be), your spouse, and older kids.
Allow me to be your expert guide! I'm here to walk you through every step of the way, from planning outfits and locations to directing you into beautiful poses that highlight your pregnancy glow.
My #1 goal is to ensure you feel calm, confident, and empowered in front of the camera. We'll have fun and capture these fleeting moments before your life changes forever.
I know how fast pregnancy can fly by, so we'll seize this special opportunity! Reach out today to get your Lynchburg maternity session on my calendar. I can't wait to celebrate this incredible time with you.
“Liz Cook is an incredibly talented and attentive professional. Her sweet and gentle countenance is paired with her ability to capture the most tender and joyful moments of the births that she photographs. Liz’s photos will bring you years of enjoyment as they draw you back to the delight and bliss of your birth experience.”
