August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to honor, support, and empower mothers on their unique feeding journeys. As a newborn photographer and mother, I’ve witnessed the raw beauty of these moments, and recently, I had the privilege of capturing a particularly tender one. I nursed both of my kiddos til they each turned three years old, so this is very special to me.
Katie is a mom to her beautiful daughter, a bright-eyed, curious little one who already adores the ocean breeze. When Katie reached out to book a breastfeeding session, she shared that she wanted to remember these fleeting moments. Not just the act of breastfeeding, but the connection, the bond, the peace it brings during the whirlwind of early motherhood.
The Perfect Location to Set The Tone
We met at a quiet beach just before sunset. The sky was painted in soft pastels, the waves gently rolling in, and the baby girl nestled into her mama’s arms like she knew this moment was just for them. Katie wore a flowing bathing suit cover-up that caught the wind perfectly, and together they created something truly timeless.
As the sun dipped lower, Katie held her daughter close, barefoot in the sand, their silhouettes framed by golden light. There were no props, no forced poses, just pure, uninterrupted connection. I was honored to witness it, and even more honored to freeze it in time for her.
Why Breastfeeding Awareness Month Deserves to Be Celebrated
These sessions are about more than just photos. They’re about celebrating motherhood in its truest form. Breastfeeding can be filled with highs and lows, triumphs and tears, and everything in between. It is emotional, beautiful, and incredibly personal.
In Connecticut, around 87.4% of infants are breastfed, according to the CDC. That’s a powerful reminder of how many women are choosing this journey, and how many deserve our support. Whether it’s for a day, a month, or beyond a year, every breastfeeding story matters.
Moms like Katie often tell me they don’t have many photos of themselves during these early months. They’re usually behind the scenes, doing everything. That’s exactly why I offer breastfeeding mini sessions, to give moms a chance to step into the frame and honor this part of their story.
Local Support for Breastfeeding Moms in Connecticut:
If you’re in Connecticut and need support on your breastfeeding journey, you’re not alone. Here are a few local resources that can help:
- Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition: Offers a wealth of resources, events, and support:
- La Leche League of Connecticut: A supportive network of peer-to-peer help and guidance: llli.org
- Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs): Ask your pediatrician or birthing hospital for referrals. Many hospitals, like Yale New Haven or Hartford HealthCare, offer lactation support clinics.
- WIC Program: If you’re eligible, WIC provides free access to breastfeeding counselors and peer support.
Let’s Celebrate your Journey
Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, combo feeding, pumping, or figuring it out one day at a time, this month is for you. And so are these sessions.
So if you’ve been thinking about documenting your own breastfeeding journey, consider this your sign. You deserve to be in the frame, exactly as you are.
P.S. My Breastfeeding Minis are discounted for August in honor of Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Let’s celebrate this chapter while it’s still being written. Click here to book yours now
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