THE BLOG ARCHIVES

THE MOTHERHOOD COLLECTIVE BLOG: STORIES AND CONNECTION

Sharing the heart behind my galleries, motherhood wisdom, and ideas for capturing your family’s unique story.

Maternity | Birth | Newborn | Military | Family

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Birth

What’s it Like to Hire a Birth Photographer in Tacoma, WA

Birth

Curious about what it’s really like to welcome a birth photographer into your delivery space? From navigating hospital policies to preserving raw, unposed emotions, here is an honest look at how I quietly document your baby’s arrival while keeping your comfort and privacy first.

Birth

Maternity

When to Schedule Maternity Photography in Tacoma

Maternity

Wondering when to schedule maternity photography in Tacoma? Learn the best weeks to book your session, how to navigate Pacific Northwest seasons, and tips for matching your military schedule around JBLM.

Maternity

Birth

Military Spouse Birth Photographer Directory | Global Resource

Birth

Looking for a birth photographer at your next duty station? Browse my growing list of military spouse birth photographers around the world, organized by base and location.

Birth

Maternity

Documenting the In-Between: A Creative Water Maternity Session

Maternity

A refined, editorial maternity session by the water that embraces organic movement and intimate portraits.

Maternity

Explore More Blog Stories

Melanie Lopez 12/13/25 Melanie Lopez 12/13/25

Choosing Between Studio and Home Photos for Newborns

Deciding on the perfect setting for your newborn session — studio or in-home, is a big choice. This post breaks down the unique benefits of each option: from the controlled lighting and props of a studio to the intimate, personal feel of a session in your own home. Learn which setting is the best fit for your family's style and desired memories

Melanie Lopez 10/22/25 Melanie Lopez 10/22/25

Tender NICU Photography at Walter Reed – 32 Weeks of Strength

Capturing the delicate strength and tender moments of a NICU journey. This post shares the heartfelt story and images from a special photography session at Walter Reed, celebrating 32 weeks of a baby's fight and the unwavering love of their family.

Melanie Lopez 8/3/25 Melanie Lopez 8/3/25

Maternity Session at Morven Park – A Story of Beauty, Grace, and Anticipation

Relaxed maternity session at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, featuring a playful family of six with baby number five on the way. A fun, light-hearted session filled with movement, connection, and real moments with four kids running and playing in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Melanie Lopez 7/28/25 Melanie Lopez 7/28/25

Emotion-Driven Maternity Photography at the US Capitol | Melanie Lopez Photography

A maternity session at the Capitol that blends natural light, timeless architecture, and heartfelt moments. Melanie Lopez Photography captures honest, connection-filled portraits across Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia.

Melanie Lopez 6/30/25 Melanie Lopez 6/30/25

A Pentagon Promotion

From crisp uniforms to quiet moments with their kids, this Pentagon promotion was full of powerful images. I photographed her promotion last year, and coming back to capture his made it even more meaningful.

Melanie Lopez 6/8/25 Melanie Lopez 6/8/25

Golden Hour Family Session at Morven Park

We caught the light just right at Morven Park. Bubbles to start (always a win), then playful moments with a few poses mixed in. Simple, easy, and exactly how I like family sessions to feel.

Melanie Lopez 4/21/25 Melanie Lopez 4/21/25

A Floral Studio Session at The Lair in Falls Church

A simple yet stunning family studio session at The Lair in Falls Church, featuring a soft floral setup and natural light. This calm, intimate setting was perfect for capturing genuine connection and quiet moments. Ideal inspiration for anyone looking to book a floral-themed family session in Northern Virginia.

Melanie Lopez 4/6/25 Melanie Lopez 4/6/25

Timeless Family & Maternity Photography at the Jefferson Memorial

A chilly spring morning at the Jefferson Memorial for this sweet third-time mama. Windy, yes — but totally worth it for the light, the movement, and the anticipation of another baby girl!

Melanie Lopez 3/25/25 Melanie Lopez 3/25/25

The Lair Studio: Floral Maternity Magic

A stunning floral maternity session at The Lair in Falls Church, VA, featuring soft natural light, elegant floral arrangements, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. This session beautifully documents the anticipation of motherhood with artistic, emotion-filled storytelling. Perfect inspiration for expecting parents looking for timeless, elegant maternity photography in Northern Virginia.