Celebrate the Journey: Elegant and Timeless In-Studio Maternity Photography in Edwardsville, IL

There is something incredibly powerful about the transition into motherhood—the quiet strength, the anticipation, the glow of new life. At Conner James Photography, we believe this season deserves to be remembered in a way that is both artistic and personal. That’s why our in-studio maternity sessions in Edwardsville, IL are thoughtfully crafted to capture this remarkable time with intention, beauty, and care.

Why Choose a Studio Maternity Session?

Our private studio in Glen Carbon, Illinois offers the perfect setting for expecting mothers who want a sophisticated, stress-free maternity experience. From soft lighting to carefully curated gowns and wraps, every detail is designed to celebrate you. We guide you through poses that flatter and feel natural, so you feel confident, radiant, and completely yourself.

Whether you're drawn to a modern minimalist look, romantic lace, or dramatic black bodysuits with sleek styling—our studio maternity photography allows for customization and creativity while maintaining a timeless aesthetic you’ll treasure forever.

Special Offer for Expecting Mamas 🤍

When you book a newborn session at Conner James Photography, you’ll receive a FREE maternity mini session or a free milestone session—your choice!

This limited-time offer allows you to beautifully capture both the anticipation and arrival of your little one—without missing a beat.

📸 Reserve your session today:
👉 https://connerjamesphotography.pixieset.com/booking/

What’s Included in Your Studio Maternity Session?

• Full access to our luxurious studio wardrobe

• Custom styling based on your vision

• Posing guidance to help you feel confident and comfortable

• A relaxed, private session space in Glen Carbon, IL

• Optional family or partner add-ons

• A selection of high-end backdrops and props for an editorial look

When to Schedule Your Maternity Session

The best time to photograph your baby bump is between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy—when your belly is beautifully round and you’re still feeling comfortable. We recommend booking your session early, especially if you're planning to bundle with your newborn photos and take advantage of our complimentary mini session offer.

Why Clients Travel to Us

Christine of Conner James Photography is an experienced and certified maternity and newborn photographer serving families in Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Troy, and beyond. Her signature style blends warmth, simplicity, and fine art elements to create images that feel like heirlooms. Clients frequently drive from nearby cities—and even out of state—to have their portraits captured in her inviting studio.

Don’t Miss This Moment

Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fifth, this journey deserves to be documented. Studio maternity photography is not just about beautiful images—it’s about preserving the way you felt in this fleeting chapter.

Let’s create something truly unforgettable.

💫 Book your session now and receive your complimentary maternity mini or milestone session:
👉 https://connerjamesphotography.pixieset.com/booking/

First Birthday Photography in Glen Carbon, IL | Cake Smash & Milestone Photos

🎂 First Birthday Session in Glen Carbon, IL | Elegant Princess-Themed Cake Smash

At Conner James Photography, we love celebrating the big ONE! First birthday sessions are some of our most magical moments—full of giggles, cake, and personality. This gorgeous little princess recently visited our Glen Carbon studio to celebrate her first year in style, and the results were nothing short of royal.

📍 Studio Location: Glen Carbon, IL
📸 Photographer: Christine Loomas – Certified in newborn & baby safety
🔗 Book Your 1st Birthday Session

💕 A First Birthday Fit for a Queen

Dressed in a soft pink tulle gown and a floral crown with a golden “ONE,” this sweet girl stole the show. Surrounded by romantic roses, lace draping, gold accents, and a custom mini throne, she lit up the entire studio with her smile. This vintage princess theme was dreamy, elegant, and timeless—everything you could want for your baby girl’s milestone celebration.

From soft portraits to big laughs, we captured every moment of her joy and sweetness in this first birthday session.

🎉 What’s Included in a 1st Birthday Session?

Your baby’s cake smash and birthday session includes:

• Professional studio styling with custom setups

• Optional cake smash and splash (bring your own cake)

• Use of studio wardrobe (including dresses, crowns, and more!)

• High-resolution digital images with print release

• Personalized posing and baby-led direction

👑 Want a different theme? We’ve done everything from boho to barnyard to ballerina. Let’s bring your vision to life!

🔗 See 1st Birthday Session Packages

🎈 VIP Client Membership – For Every Milestone

Did you know that our VIP Client Membership includes 3 sessions per year? Many families choose a newborn, sitter, and 1st birthday combo to beautifully capture their baby’s first year.

✅ 3 sessions
✅ 30+ digital images per session
✅ 50% off extras
✅ No session fees ever again
🎉 Only $1800 (normally $4000)

🔗 Learn More About VIP Membership

📍 Serving Families in Glen Carbon, Edwardsville & Beyond

Located in Glen Carbon, Illinois, Conner James Photography is known for fine art newborn and baby photography. We regularly photograph babies from Edwardsville, Maryville, Troy, Collinsville, and throughout the St. Louis Metro East area.

Every session is designed to be safe, stress-free, and focused on your baby’s comfort and joy.

💌 Ready to Celebrate?

If your little one is turning ONE soon, now’s the time to start planning their session! Let’s create photos that you’ll treasure forever—and that look amazing on the wall or in their birthday invitations.

📸 Book Your 1st Birthday Session Now
📧 Contact Me for questions or custom themes
🎁 Gift certificates available!

Milestone Baby Photography in Glen Carbon, IL by Conner James Photography

Milestone Magic | Capturing Every Sweet Stage

At Conner James Photography, we believe every stage of your baby’s first year deserves to be celebrated—and milestone sessions are the perfect way to freeze time during these fleeting months. Whether it's a gummy smile, those tiny first teeth, or that perfect sitting-up stage, these moments are pure magic.

📍 Studio Location: Glen Carbon, IL
📸 Photographer: Christine Loomas – Certified in newborn safety & baby posing
🔗 Book a Milestone Session

Why Choose a Milestone Session?

Milestone sessions are designed to document key stages in your baby’s first year, typically around:

• 3-4 months (tummy time)

• 6-8 months (sitting)

• 9-11 months (crawling or pulling up)

• 1 year (cake smash & standing)

This sweet girl recently came in for her Sitter Session, and wow—did she light up the studio! From her soft knit outfit to that signature sparkle in her eyes, every detail was just perfection. Her playful personality and bright blue eyes made these photos absolutely unforgettable.

What to Expect

These sessions are quick, stress-free, and completely baby-led. Your little one gets to play, explore, and smile—while I capture every giggle and grin. The studio is styled in soft, neutral tones to highlight your baby’s personality, not distract from it.

✨ Outfits are provided for all milestone sessions
✨ Sessions include high-resolution digital images with print release
✨ Available to clients throughout Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Troy & beyond

🔗 Learn More About Milestone Sessions

VIP Membership = Big Milestone Savings!

Many of our milestone clients are also VIP Members! Our membership includes 3 sessions per year (ideal for newborn, sitter, and first birthday!), priority editing, and 50% off extra images.

🎉 Never pay another session fee again.
💛 On sale now: VIP Client Membership

Let’s Celebrate Your Baby’s Sweetest Stages

Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, each milestone matters. Let’s create timeless art that reminds you of just how tiny, sweet, and full of wonder your little one is right now.

💌 Contact Me to schedule your baby’s next milestone session
📍 Located in Glen Carbon, IL and serving Edwardsville, Maryville, and surrounding areas
📸 View More Milestone Galleries

Foiled and Framed Prints | Luxe Handprint & Footprint Keepsakes in Glen Carbon, IL

✨ Foiled & Framed Prints: Luxe Keepsakes for Life's Most Precious Moments

At Foiled & Framed Prints, we transform your most meaningful memories into timeless, handcrafted keepsakes using premium foil-pressed art. Whether it's a newborn's first footprints, a child’s tiny handprint, a beloved pet’s paw, or a memorial tribute to a loved one—you can now frame the moments that mean the most.

📍 Located in Glen Carbon, Illinois — serving Edwardsville, Maryville, and the greater St. Louis Metro East area
🔗 Shop Now or Book an Appointment

🖼️ What We Create

Each print is carefully designed with custom foil colors and personalization options. Whether you’re preserving:

• Baby footprints or handprints

• Ultrasound images

• Birthday milestones

• Memorial prints

• Pet paw prints

…you’ll receive a one-of-a-kind keepsake that’s handmade with care and ready to display.

💛 Choose from gold, rose gold, silver, blue, black, rainbow, red, or colored foil.
💛 Add your baby’s name, birthdate, or custom message.
💛 Available as flat prints or in ready-to-hang frames.

📦 How It Works

We offer two easy options:

1. In-Studio Impressions
Come visit our home studio in Glen Carbon, IL. We’ll take the handprint, footprint, or paw impression for you and notify you when your final piece is ready for pickup.

2. Submit Your Print by Photo
No matter where you live, you can email a high-quality image of your existing print or ultrasound. We’ll send you a digital proof for approval before production and package your finished artwork with care.

🖨️ Gift-ready is available—wrapped and perfect for showers, birthdays, and holidays.
🎁 Gift Certificates Available

🌟 Featured Keepsake Styles

• Newborn Foil Prints – Birth details + tiny footprints in luxe foil

• 1st Birthday Prints – Baby’s favorites, handprints, and milestone memories

• Memorial & Bereavement Art – A tender way to honor loved ones lost

• Pet Paw Prints – Celebrate your furry best friend with custom metallic art

These luxe little prints are beautifully imperfect—each one unique, just like the story it tells. Subtle texture variations and natural foil details add charm and authenticity.

❤️ Why Choose Foiled & Framed Prints?

• Crafted locally by a certified newborn photographer with over a decade of experience

• Every detail is reviewed by hand—no mass production

• Custom, personal, and meaningful—designed to last a lifetime

🛍️ Ready to Order Your Keepsake?

Create something unforgettable for yourself or someone you love. Whether it's a keepsake for your nursery, a baby shower gift, or a heartfelt memorial—we’re here to help you remember it beautifully.

🔗 View Products & Book
📍 Based in Glen Carbon, IL
📧 Have questions? Contact Me

Heartfelt Family Photography in Edwardsville & Glen Carbon, IL | Conner James Photography

Preserve the Love. Capture the Moments.

At Conner James Photography, we know that family is everything — and life moves way too fast. That’s why our family photography sessions are designed to capture the real, heartfelt connection between you and your loved ones. Based in Glen Carbon and Edwardsville, IL, we offer studio and outdoor family sessions that are stress-free, beautifully styled, and full of genuine moments you’ll treasure forever.

📸 Book now: www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow

What to Expect from Your Family Session

We believe family photography should be more than just posed smiles — it should tell your story. During your session, we’ll focus on both classic portraits and natural, playful interactions that reflect your family’s unique personality.

You can choose between:

• 🌿 Outdoor Sessions at Golden Hour – Ideal for soft, natural light and beautiful scenery in the Edwardsville and Glen Carbon area.

• 🖼️ Studio Sessions – Perfect for timeless, classic family portraits with full control of lighting and backdrop. Great for younger children!

All sessions are relaxed and guided, so you never feel stiff or uncertain. We’ll help with styling tips, poses, and prompts to bring out natural smiles and laughter.

Why Choose Conner James Photography?

❤️ 12+ Years of Experience – Christine Loomas has photographed hundreds of families and specializes in working with kids of all ages.
📍 Local & Trusted – Serving Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville, and the Metro East area.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Certified in Child Safety – Your family's comfort and security are our top priority.
🖼️ Fine Art Quality – Every session includes access to high-resolution digital images with print rights, as well as custom print options.

Family Sessions Are Perfect For:

• Annual family photos

• Milestone celebrations

• Generational portraits (bring grandparents too!)

• Holiday cards

• Just because you’re overdue for updated photos!

Session Details

Each session includes:
✔️ 30–60 minutes of photography time
✔️ High-resolution edited images
✔️ Proofing Gallery

When Should You Book?

Family sessions fill quickly, especially during spring, summer, fall, and the holidays. We recommend booking 1–2 months in advance to guarantee your preferred date.

👉 Lock in your session today: www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow

Let’s Create Something Beautiful

Whether your kids are tiny or all grown up, there’s never a wrong time to document your family’s love and growth. At Conner James Photography, we’ll guide you through every step — so you can relax and enjoy the experience while we create timeless, frame-worthy images.

📍 Located in Glen Carbon, IL | Serving Edwardsville, Maryville, Troy, Collinsville & surrounding areas

Luxe Foil Keepsakes in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon, IL – Custom Handprint, Footprint & Paw Print Art by Foiled and Framed Prints

Celebrate Life’s Most Meaningful Moments with Luxe Foil Keepsakes

Foiled & Framed Prints is where art meets emotion. Nestled in Glen Carbon, Illinois and serving the surrounding Edwardsville area, we specialize in handcrafted foil prints that transform your most cherished memories into elegant keepsakes. Whether you're commemorating the tiny toes of your newborn, the loyal paw of a beloved pet, or honoring a loved one’s memory, our luxe foil artwork is crafted with love and care — foiled in love and framed for life.

🌟 Visit us online: https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/foiledframedprints

What We Create

At Foiled & Framed Prints, we offer a range of custom foil keepsakes, including:

• Baby Handprints & Footprints – Capture your newborn’s first details in radiant foil, perfect for nursery art or gifting to grandparents.

• Pet Paw Prints – Honor your furry companion with a shimmering foil paw print keepsake.

• Family Handprint Prints – Celebrate your growing family with a beautiful piece that symbolizes connection.

• Memorial Keepsakes – Remember someone special with an heirloom-quality print that keeps their spirit close.

All prints are available in your choice of foil colors — from classic gold to soft rose or modern silver — and can be purchased framed or unframed.

How It Works

We make it simple and personal:

✅ In-Studio Appointments: Local clients can book a session at our home studio in Glen Carbon, IL to create the original print.
✅ Remote Orders: Not nearby? Just email a high-resolution photo or scan of your print to us — we’ll take it from there!
✅ Digital Proofs Sent Before Printing: You'll receive a proof to approve before your custom foil print is finalized.
✅ Gift-Ready Packaging: Upon request each order is wrapped with care and ready to gift — perfect for baby showers, birthdays, holidays, or memorial occasions.
✅ Gift Cards Available: Let your loved one choose their perfect keepsake.

Why Choose Foiled & Framed Prints?

✨ Handmade with Heart – Each print is individually crafted, with slight foil variations adding to its unique charm.
📍 Locally Made in Glen Carbon & Edwardsville, IL – Support a woman-owned, family-run small business in your community.
🖼️ Timeless Display Pieces – Our luxe foil prints are more than just art — they’re heirlooms designed to last.

Perfect For:

• New parents wanting a meaningful keepsake

• Pet lovers looking to honor their companions

• Families marking milestones

• Grieving loved ones creating a lasting tribute

Order Your Custom Keepsake Today

Whether you’re looking to celebrate, commemorate, or gift something truly special, Foiled & Framed Prints offers a timeless way to preserve what matters most.

👉 Ready to get started? Visit https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/foiledframedprints to book your appointment or place your custom order.

The Artistic Side of Maternity and Newborn Photography

Photography is often referred to as an art. Even though a photographer does not mold a pot from clay or paint a masterpiece from scratch, they still create art. Just like other labeled “artists” who have a vision and are able to see the beauty that lies within a lump of clay or a blank sheet of paper, photographers share that same creative vision. Some photographers, however, are better at this than others. Conner James Photography of Glen Carbon, Illinois is one of them. Owner and photographer Christine Loomas has been in this artistic industry for 12 years. Read on as she shares more about the creative process behind a photoshoot and the artistry involved in capturing the perfect shot.

Both maternity and newborn photography require a lot of creative flexibility. What may sound great and look good for one family may certainly not work out well for another. A lot depends on the pregnant mama - how she’s feeling, her comfort level, her ability to pose etc. Same thing for the newborn - the baby may want to cluster feed, not burp, or stay awake. These are all things that can affect and even change the entire idea behind a photo session. Owner and newborn photographer of Edwardsville, Illinois Conner James Photography enlightens us.

“I’ve had some new mothers want these really beautiful boho setups for their newborns, unique digital composite images and even photos using 100-year-old family heirlooms,” says Christine. “They just kind of throw all these things at me and say, ‘We know you can make this work; your portfolio is second-to-none!’ I love the faith they have in my artistic ability to create the best photos; these family’s believe in me. And even when there’s a curveball or two with the mama not feeling her best during the maternity session or a newborn being colicky, I always find a way for my creativity to shine behind the lens.”

Christine of Conner James Photography specializes in maternity and newborn photos. Her artistry is so good that she has clients come to her from all over the United States. “My clients, both maternity and newborn, almost always have their own idea or vision of what they want in their photos,” Christine says. “I try to give them what they ask for but always love going above and beyond their wildest expectations. Whether they come to my home-studio from a nearby community or they hop a plane to get here, we both have an equal amount of faith in each other when it comes to this photographic investment.” Christine talks about how a number of her clients see a specific photo and want it recreated - and she makes it happen, effortlessly. Because she is a true artist with her camera.

Conner James Photography is nestled in Glen Carbon, Illinois and easily reached from a number of area communities including Collinsville, Edwardsville, Maryville, Troy, etc. When an expectant mother wants maternity photos that are MORE than just simple pictures, she calls on Conner James Photography. When a new mama wants newborn photos that are MORE than just snapshots of her baby, she calls on Conner James Photography. For photos that are truly creative pieces of art that cannot be matched - call Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography.

Introducing Simple Senior Sessions – Affordable & Stunning Senior Portraits!

Are you ready to capture the magic of your senior year with beautiful senior portraits? At Conner James Photography, we’re thrilled to introduce our Simple Senior Sessions—the perfect way to get timeless, high-quality images without the hassle of a long photoshoot!

What’s Included in Our Simple Senior Sessions?

✔️ 30-minute session – Short, sweet, and stress-free!
✔️ 8 high-resolution images – Professionally edited and delivered with a print release.
✔️ One outfit – Keep it simple yet stylish!
✔️ Multiple poses – From classic studio senior photography to fun, candid shots.
✔️ Golden hour magic – Sessions take place at sunset for that dreamy glow.

💰 Only $150.00

Why Choose Us for Your Senior Portraits?

📍 Located in Glen Carbon, IL, we specialize in high school senior photos that highlight your personality in the most flattering light. Whether you're looking for outdoor senior photos, a modern senior photography style, or a relaxed, natural session, we’ve got you covered!

Perfect for Every Senior!

Whether you’re a senior in Edwardsville, IL, St. Louis, or Madison County, our senior picture ideas cater to every style—from natural light senior portraits to urban-inspired looks.

✨ Limited spots available! Don’t miss out—Book your session today!

🔗 Book Now

#GlenCarbonSeniorPhotography #SeniorPortraits #HighSchoolSeniorPhotos #OutdoorSeniorPhotos #GoldenHourSeniorPictures #SeniorPhotographyNearMe

Capturing the Fleeting Moments: Why Timing is Crucial in Maternity and Newborn Photography by Edwardsville Photographer Conner James Photography

It seems that more and more these days, there isn’t enough time in a day to fit everything in. Twenty-four hours just doesn’t work anymore. When you try to figure an entire day that includes work schedules, school schedules, extracurricular schedules, commute times, meal times, etc. it gets overwhelming. Days and events that mean something special to us may get half of the attention they deserve - because there just isn’t enough time for everything. It’s sad to think that’s the case for many families, especially when those special days, times or events only come around once. Maternity and newborn photography, for example, falls into this category. Mothers are going through a particular pregnancy ONE TIME and their newborns are only true newborns ONE TIME. This is why timing is so critical in capturing the moments that will come and go like a breeze. Glen Carbon, Illinois maternity and newborn photographer Conner James Photography will beautifully snap up these precious times that you’ll have only once.

When you’re pregnant, so many things are running through your mind and maternity photos may not be a priority. Though, it should be. You may not realize it until after the time has passed, but being pregnant - those 40 weeks - pass by so quickly. The importance of capturing the precious love and beauty you will experience is something you don’t want to miss out on. Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography suggests getting on her schedule for your maternity photos around your twelfth week. You can book your session on her website at www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow . “I’ve seen it all too often,” says owner and photographer Christine Loomas. “So many of my mama’s get that pregnancy brain and they get consumed with this and that. Next thing they know, they’re 36, 37, 38 weeks pregnant and wanting maternity photos that we just can’t make happen.” One of the great things about maternity and newborn photographer Conner James Photography is that Christine works WITH you, not against you. She encourages clients to book their sessions early to ensure they get on her schedule. But if you need to move your date around for any reason, Christine will go  to any length (even change her own schedule) to make sure you get the photos you want and deserve to have.

Once you welcome your newborn, the pregnancy brain is gone and new mama overload has kicked in. But this time now is also one you don’t want to lose. “Most of my mama’s book me for their newborn photos at the same time they schedule their maternity photos,” says Christine. “As a mom myself, I can honestly say you don’t think about scheduling photos when you’re sitting in the hospital with your newborn. It’s best to get everything on the books months ahead of time so you know you’ll get these once-in-a-lifetime moments caught on camera.”

The precious first few days of motherhood will pass you by so quickly. Don’t let them go unnoticed and uncaptured. Let Christine Loomas of Conner James Photography freeze this time for you. With her home-studio centrally located - just a stone's-throw from Maryville, Troy and Collinsville, Illinois - you don’t have to worry about making a drive across the river for beautiful, affordable newborn photos. Make one phone call and two bookings early in your pregnancy so you don’t need to worry about it later. Take the precious moments you have with your baby and enjoy them because when you blink, they’ll be gone.

Outgoing Links:

1. [Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

2. [Edwardsville IL & Glen Carbon IL Chamber of Commerence](https://www.edglenchamber.com)

3. [Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

4. [Glen Carbon Centennial Library](https://glencarbonlibrary.org/)

The Impact of Photos on Child Development and Family by Edwardsville Photographer Conner James Photography

Have you ever been to a household that didn’t have any family photos displayed? It’s certainly a possibility but probably not very likely. A young couple may have their wedding photos hung in a gallery for everyone to see. Some may have photos of themselves and their dogs from a hiking trip. Proud grandparents could have graduation pictures displayed of their 18 grandchildren. The list and the possibilities are endless because photographs always seem to represent love, happiness, success and most of all, family.

If you’re looking for a professional and skilled family photographer, check out Edwardsville, Illinois photographer Conner James Photography. Owner and photographer Christine Loomas understands just how important family photos can be and she demonstrates that knowledge in her photographs. “I’ve had clients come back to me for family photos every year,” says Christine. “Many of them say being together and having their photos taken each year is a fun bonding experience.” It can be fun to go through the process because during the length of the photo session, a lot of things happen - things that make each other laugh, things that spark new genuine smiles, or even blooper moments that create pure one-of-a-kind memories. 

You may not realize, too, that children love to see photos of themselves as babies. When they look at photographs of themselves right as they entered the world, and photos of them growing up it contributes to their sense of identity. Children learn to recognize that they are “David Thomas” (for example) and they are the little brother of Jessica Thomas. They identify as being an active member of their family that consists of mommy, daddy, Jessica, David, and their dog Cooper. Being aware, recognizing, and knowing that they belong is so important to them. Glen Carbon family photographer Christine of Conner James Photography works magic behind her camera. Whether your family photo session is outside or in her home-studio, she has an incredible knack for capturing the most joyous smiles behind each family member.

One more thought about the importance of family photos: think about family expansion. Maryville, Illinois photographer Christine of Conner James Photography talks about how a repeat client of hers has a gallery wall of family pictures. It starts with engagement and wedding pictures, then runs to maternity and newborn and on to full family photographs. “It’s such a cool idea because it literally shows the evolution of a family,” says Christine. “Children can see their parents when they were young and how it was just the two of them. Then on to their mommy being pregnant with them and eventually having them. And of course, full family pictures from year to year of that family expanding and growing in love together.” 

Family photos are truly beautiful. From showing the very beginning of a family all the way through the ages - they are treasures to be cherished. You don’t need to waste time searching for a professional photographer who can capture the love of your family. Simply contact Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois. You’ll fall in love with the magical moments your family shares as she snaps away effortlessly behind her camera lens.