Ford House Maternity and Family Pictures | McKinney Family
Let’s talk about these STUNNING maternity pictures taken in early Spring at the Ford House!
Originally when I met with this glowing mama to chat about her vision for her maternity session, she mentioned with her first pregnancy she had maternity portraits done in-studio, so she wanted to really mix it up this time for baby #2.
We browsed through my Location Guide together to show her several examples throughout Metro Detroit that would be dreamy for a family maternity photo shoot to see what would catch her eye.
When I showed her the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, she knew THAT was the spot.
The Ford House has so much to offer with its perfectly manicured landscapes, historic architecture, and serene waterfront views.
Pro tip: The Ford House does require a photography permit in advance to schedule your photo session there. When you’re there for the actual photo shoot, you’ll have one of the Ford House employees be your guide. They’re very helpful and kind, answering any questions you may have or to give recommendations throughout the property. Don’t worry, they won’t be a bother!
It is such a serene and timeless location for pictures, isn’t it? Other frequent photo sessions that take place at the Ford House include family sessions, high school senior sessions, and engagement pictures.
Let’s talk about outfits!
Remember how I mentioned mama and I got together to plan her maternity pictures? At that same consultation, we also planned and chatted about everyone’s outfits to wear. Mom’s dress is actually from my Client Closet, which is offered to all of my maternity clients to use complimentary for their photo sessions with me. This made the planning so much easier for mama and saved her all that extra time figuring it out on her own (win!).
I always tell the moms to plan THEIR outfit first (we’re our own biggest critics and hardest to please, so we get this one!). After she had tried on some dressed and made her pick with this beaut, we went classic for Dad’s attire, and then added some print for their sweet girl - and a darling little hair bow, of course!
Pro-tip: Wearing a dress that is flowy and/or adds so much movement to the photos! We had quite a bit of wind for this session, and I was THRILLED that we did because look at the dress in the pictures - I’m obsessed!
We had about an hour session for pictures and were able to get so much variety with the scenes and posing. I always like to include “traditional” poses, like you see below, and then lifestyle and candid poses as well. It keeps the session flowing, the dads and kids happy (hehehe!), and beautiful portraits.
I should also mention, The Ford House offers different events throughout the year (family friendly) that you should check in to! The grounds are peaceful and pleasant to stroll around, as well.
So, tell me what you think! Would you be interested in your photos at The Ford House or are you more of a rustic field type of gal?
xo,
Chelsie
Check out these other maternity blogs for more inspiration and information!
When is the best time to take maternity pictures?
Which is better? In-studio versus outside for maternity photos!
Stony Creek Metropark | A Cottage-core Maternity Photo shoot
Chelsie Maurer is a professional maternity photographer serving Metro Detroit and surrounding areas such as Birmingham, Chesterfield, Clinton Township, Oakland Township, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Shelby Township, Sterling Heights, Troy, Utica, Washington Township, and West Bloomfield. She specializes in Newborn and Maternity portraiture. Chelsie Maurer Photography’s studio is located in historic Downtown Utica, Michigan.