‘Whether it be baby one or number three, the long standing tradition of gathering with well wishes, wisdom and an assortment of miscellaneous baby goods is a beautiful way to arm new mamas on their journey into motherhood. When the gorgeous day of kindred connection and pastel patterned bunting comes to a close, pregnant women the country over are left with a belly full of cake and a gift table piled high with lotions, onesies, cloth nappies and an assortment of either brightly coloured or wooden infant paraphernalia (depending where you sit on the scale of one to Montessori).’

In this piece, Geelong photographer Michelle McKay introduces the idea of gifting expectant mothers a photo session, rather than baby goods.

‘When I was a child and the weather was fine, sometimes we’d drive into the mountains. To me it was a magical place. The shadow of the mountain stretched across the land, resting against the surrounding fields like a cool sheet. From the second we left the sealed road and hit the tree line it was like we’d entered and enchanted space. Somehow it felt sacred.’

In this piece, Geelong photographer Michelle McKay introduces the idea of a family story session in the woods, and the magic that can result.