A Maternity Session full of Life in Downtown Bakersfield CA

Covid really took a toll on a lot of things. One of those things…changing the way that first time parents experience maternity season. I had the joy of gifting these two a session to celebrate this season of LIFE, thanks to Damian with Shot by Dame and thanks to so many friends who put in a good word on why Nate and Rachel deserved their maternity session.

This was supposed to be a porch shoot, only to discover they lived in the heart of downtown Bakersfield. We started in front of their street and walked a little down the way, running into the Nile Theatre. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve been in downtown Bakersfield, and how many times I’ve shot there. Out of all of those times, I have NEVER ever seen downtown look more alive and vibrant like I did this day. It was so full of life. In the trees, in the skies, near the buildings. I didn’t’ have to wrestle with cars in shots. I had some of the clearest views. It was a gem! This city that I call home…it was ALIVE during such a dead and dreary season [aka COVID].

I was captivated by the way the Nile Theatre looked and I stayed shooting in this space longer than I thought I would. I kept saying “there is something about this space.” I find out that this is where Nate and Rachel lead worship at their church “Resurrection Church.” It started to click and piece together after they told me-and then it made total sense to me why this space was made for them. And why it came alive in this way.

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Nate + Rachel. I hope you always reflect back on these photos. I hope they bring you joy and peace-knowing that God was with you guys through everything. Congratulations on becoming first time parents. It’s evident that you’re going to make amazing parents. Thank you for allowing me the time to enter into such an intimate space in order to freeze this moment. With all my heart and soul….Rubi Z