Meet the Owner
shakira balerna
charlotte NC's premier maternity Photographer
Hello Beautiful! I’m Shakira Balerna. Just like you, I’m a mom, and I know how captivating the maternity experience can be. I use my love of art, design and photography to express the wonder of this new stage of life, capturing mothers of all kinds in cities across the nation.
I draw my inspiration from world-renowned fashion magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair and Harper's Bazaar. And you’re my next muse.
Together, we’re going to capture the life-giver you are, full of power, beauty, and confidence. You are carrying an entire world within you. This experience is one that should be celebrated and honored for generations to come. We will share this act of love in photos that are timeless, classic, and transcendent.
My journey to Maternity Photography started from a place of love. That love grew inside me as I carried my daughter, Halle Giselle, and continued to grow even after she was gone too soon, after just one day of life. Halle showed me how short life is, and how beautiful every moment of motherhood can be. Halle showed me the love inside.
Now I use her love as the inspiration I need to reveal the beauty in every pregnant woman I photograph. I am driven to empower pregnant women, support them, and make them feel gorgeous. With each photograph I take of a proud, powerful, beautiful mother, my mission
is to show the world the love inside.
I’m honored to be invited behind the scenes into this intimate moment.
this is an experience unlike any other.
what to expect
Immediately after booking, you will receive information on scheduling your Consultation Call. If you need to reschedule, please contact me at least 24 hours in advance.
Booking
On this call, we’ll discuss all the details that will make your maternity photos perfect. We’ll review potential styling and venue choices to amplify your personal vision for the shoot, and cover any questions you may have.
Consultation Call
During the planning stage, we work together to bring your dream into reality. We’ll collaborate through a private mood board on Pinterest where we can share inspiring images that help hone your look. We’ll cover hair, makeup, and styling, and I’ll share images of the gorgeous maternity gowns available for your shoot.
planning stage
48 hours before your photoshoot, we’ll have one last call to go over details and what to expect. We’ll review any items that must be brought with you, and confirm arrival times. Any necessary adjustments due to weather may be made at this time.
Pre-Shoot Call
It’s your big day, so don’t be late! Please arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of your booking time to ensure all details are in place for an on-time start.
Arrival at the Photoshoot
This day is all about you, and it’s planned for you to enjoy. We’ll relax, listen to music, and go through editorial poses and natural candids to get the perfect shots. The entire shoot is designed so you’ll feel comfortable and beautiful as we capture this inspiring moment in your life.
photoshoot
Photos are edited and delivered three weeks after your photoshoot via online gallery. Enjoy!
photo delivery
*DESTINATION PACKAGE*
CONSULTATION CALL
INCLUDES MAKEUP
WARDROBE STYLING
TRAVEL (This pays for accommodations for the photographer only)
20 EDITED DIGITAL IMAGES
FOLIO BOX WITH
20 MATTE PRINTS (8X10 High-Quality Mat Prints)
Giselle
CONSULTATION CALL
INCLUDES MAKE-UP
1.5 HOUR PHOTOSHOOT
INDOOR OR OUTDOOR
UP TO 4 OUTFITS
20 DIGITAL EDITED PHOTOS
FOLIO BOX WITH 20 EDITED PRINTS
sienna
COSULTATION CALL
1 HOUR PHOTOSHOOT
2 OUTFITS
1 LOCATION (INDOOR OR OUTDOOR)
10 EDITED DIGITAL
IMAGES
halle
Same Prices as Maternity Packages
Matted Prints and Digital Photos included
mommy & me
Other Services
Frequently Asked Questions
I do not provide raw files.
Delivery of your edited photos takes 3 weeks after your photoshoot.
28 to 35 weeks is the sweet spot for that beautiful baby bump.
Yes, I have a small selection of dresses and fabrics for you to choose from.
Yes. To ensure phenomenal, artistic photos, I request input into all aspects of your styling, including wardrobe.
I do recommend using professional hair and makeup services to help you feel and look your absolute best. I can offer recommendations as needed.
I’ve captured beauty all over the region. Around Charlotte, I work in locations like McDowell Preserve, Freedom Park, and dozens of secret spots I’ve curated for my clients.
I love to travel! Email me for my travel pricing.
Please invite one support person to the photoshoot. Choose someone you’re comfortable around, who will help make you feel your most beautiful.
While I’ll supply water and a snack, you should plan to bring extra makeup for touch-ups. Wear nude, smooth underwear that won’t distract from your wardrobe. If a wardrobe change is part of your package, I will provide a discreet changing area.
No video recording devices are allowed to be used during photoshoots. Snap your selfies before and after to avoid cutting into our booked time.
24 hours prior to your photoshoot, I’ll do a final review of the weather forecast. If we expect bad weather, we’ll reschedule for a mutually beneficial time.
Please contact me at least 48 hours before to discuss rescheduling.
Know I’m wishing you good health and congratulations! When you’re able, we can reschedule you for a Mommy & Me session.
Please contact me as soon as possible. Your booking will be subject to a cancellation fee.
Please reach out via email to shakira@shakirabalerna.com
