First time for everything. This was my first time taking maternity portraits in Central Park. Mom to be wanted to capture their time living in New York City. As a native Long Islander, I frequently roam beautiful locations in Garden City, Roslyn, Oyster Bay, and Manhasset all the way out to Montauk.

 I usually like to scout new locations in person so I can determine what is in bloom and how the lighting will look. Unfortunately, my son was suffering with a terrible cough and needed my attention in the week leading up to the session. I was able to use a little bit of modern technology to plan my day. With the help of google maps I virtually walked through the park to mark the most epic locations. Then I used the app Sun tracker on my phone to determine the best lighting at the right time. This helped me prepare for the sun setting right behind two building in the Manhattan cityscape. I also checked centralparknyc.org. They have a bloom tracker but, it was inaccurate. The cherry trees should have been peak bloom, but if was just fully lush green trees. Still beautiful a beautiful sight. 

When all is said and done. Google maps and Sun tracker are fantastic tools if you're like me and want to plan ahead for a smooth session. As for the bloom tracker thumbs down. If anyone has any suggestions on how to check the blooms ahead, I'd love to hear it in the comments. 
 

I hope you enjoy this beautiful Mama in the beginning stages of their parenthood.