THIS IS WHY I DO THIS.
Because motherhood changes you… in ways no one really prepares you for. Not just your body — but your confidence, your identity, your sense of self.
Because I am a mum too… and I know what it feels like to look in the mirror and not quite recognise the woman staring back. I know the exhaustion. The burnout. The invisible weight of always being the one holding everything together. And I know how lonely it can feel sometimes… even when you’re never actually alone.
This project was never just about photos. It was about creating a space where women could come together, stand side by side, and actually see the truth. That there is no “perfect” body. No smooth, filtered, unrealistic version of what a mum should look like. Just real women, with stretch marks, with softness, with stories.
And when you stand in a room full of women like that, something shifts. Walls come down. Comparisons fade. And connection takes over.
But something I’ve come to realise over the past few years of doing this is that for so many of these women, there is something deeper sitting just beneath the surface. Motherhood might be the chapter they’re in, but it’s not always the whole story. There are experiences they carry quietly. Birth stories that didn’t go the way they hoped. Moments that changed them. Pieces of their past, even from before becoming a mum, that are still sitting heavy.
And sometimes this space becomes the place where that door gently opens. Where something can be released. Where healing can begin. Where they can start letting go of what’s been weighing them down.
Last year, one of the beautiful mums who stood in front of my camera came back for her second year. Her name was Mikayla. She was a single mum to four beautiful children. She had faced domestic violence. And she was also fighting a battle that she knew she might not win.
But she showed up anyway. Because this project gave her something deeper — a sense of purpose, connection, and a way to be seen.
She wanted to come back again this year. But last week, she lost her battle.
And now, these images, these moments we captured, are no longer just photographs. They are part of her legacy. They are something her children can hold onto. Something that proves she was here. That she was strong. That she was loved.
And that right there is why this matters so much more than just taking photos.
Because we don’t always know what someone is carrying. We don’t always know how much time we have. But we can choose to step into the frame, to be present, to exist in our memories.
These sessions are about stepping out of your comfort zone and into something so much bigger. They’re about laughter, vulnerability, and the kind of energy you honestly can’t put into words. It’s electric. It’s emotional. It’s powerful.
Women arrive nervous, guarded, unsure. And they leave lighter, stronger, seen.
I do this because I want mums to feel looked after for once. To be held. To be reminded of their beauty — not just how they look, but who they are.
Because this isn’t just about today. It’s about the long-lasting ripple effect on confidence, on self-worth, on mental wellbeing. It’s about changing the way women see themselves and the legacy they pass down to their children.
This fills my cup in a way nothing else does.
And if you’ve ever felt like you’ve lost a piece of yourself along the way, or you’re carrying something you don’t quite have the words for yet, or you’ve been waiting for the right time… this is your reminder that the time is now.
Because these moments matter more than we realise. ✨
A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels, in the deepest sense, about
what is being photographed.
To be a loving mother and to be accepted exactly how I am is everything. There are no expectations I just have to ‘show’ up.
There is nothing I’d trade these memories for or trade for anything.
Being a mother is about being- belonging – living -breathing and existing.
Life is precious and I don’t think any of us realise how special these memories are until it’s too late.
Tomorrow isn’t promised, so take those photos. Size, shape. Image – NONE of that matters.
We are all beautiful in our very own way & when you breathe in and breathe out, you truly learn your value.
These memories are woven in to the history books like a hand made blanket. 💖
How did you feel at the start of the group photo experience compared to the end?
At the start, I felt a mix of nerves and vulnerability — like I was stepping into something bigger than just a photoshoot. I carried so much of what I’ve been through as a mum on my shoulders, and part of me worried it would show.
By the end, I felt lighter… grounded… almost held. The space felt safe, the energy felt warm, and I walked away feeling seen instead of scrutinised. It was as if the heaviness I came in with had been replaced with a sense of pride, softness, and connection.
What was the reason you wanted to be part of The Motherhood Project?
I joined because motherhood has reshaped me in ways I rarely pause to acknowledge. I wanted to capture the version of me who keeps showing up — even on the days I’m running on fumes, especially after a difficult year emotionally.
I wanted something that honoured the journey and allowed me to feel comfortable in my own skin — not just the highlight reel.
What were you hoping to get out of it?
I hoped for a moment where I didn’t have to be “on” — just present. A moment to be reminded that I’m more than the survival mode I’ve been living in for so long.
And maybe, a moment to feel beautiful and strong again in ways I’d forgotten.
How did I make you feel before, during, and after your session?
Before the session, you made me feel calm and reassured — like I didn’t need to perform or pretend.
During the session, you made me feel powerful and important, like my story truly mattered.
Afterwards, I felt held and uplifted, as though something deeper than a photograph had been captured — a piece of my identity I didn’t realise I’d lost. By the end of the session, I felt completely free and unbothered in my own skin.
What do you feel you’ve gotten out of it so far — emotionally, personally, or even as a mum?
Emotionally, it gave me permission to breathe after so long of holding my breath through crisis.
Personally, it reminded me that I am still becoming — that motherhood didn’t take away my identity, but reshaped it into something deeper. It also helped me embrace the changes in my body after motherhood, rather than feel ashamed of them.
As a mum, it gave me a moment of reflection — a reminder that my daughter sees me with love and strength, not through the weight I sometimes believe I’m carrying wrong.
If you could share a few words of encouragement for other mums who are thinking about joining, what would you tell them?
Do it.
Not for the photos — for yourself. Stand in your own skin, with freedom in your heart and love in every step.
Do it because motherhood and life can swallow you whole, and experiences like this remind you that you’re still allowed to take up space — to exist without hiding.
It’s a chance to reconnect with the woman behind the mum, to feel celebrated instead of depleted.
It’s healing, validating, and unexpectedly powerful.
This project mattered to me in so many ways I wouldn’t know where to start! Growing up my parents split before I went into prep and I felt that I’ve always felt alone or not the same since my parents toxic relationship, my mum taught us 3 girls growing up that girl power was everything! And it was the only thing that kept me going , through high school having been bullied constantly for who I was or what I looked like I struggled alot having epilepsy and learning so I never felt like someone without disabilities, being a victim of SA as young as 14 that took all my confidence and women hood away , I became an alcoholic like the women in my family as it was the only way to cope without paying an arm and a leg for councillors but doing the motherhood project I felt seen , I didn’t feel judged , I felt like I mattered for once and it released so much in myself I thought I had healed I felt like I had lifted a whole lot of weight I didn’t even know I was carrying. Fast forward I had my son in May 2024 and it gave me a whole new purpose and love I’ve never had before but always craved breastfeeding was so hard for me mentally , also being an undersupplier and having to combo feed the start of our journey I felt like a failure but making it to 18months I couldn’t be more proud of pushing through I wanted to capture our last moments of breastfeeding as its a bond I don’t want to loose and a memory I want to always hold close it shows determination can get you anywhere ! If I could give a nudge to any mother to be apart of this project it would be that even if you think you’ve healed, or don’t think you need it you do! This has changed my life for the better that’s for sure 💖 and I cant thank Brooke enough for walking us through the process so seamlessly.
Before arriving at the motherhood photography destination, I was a bit nervous, wondering how I’d be perceived by others with how my body was and by how my kids were going to act around others. After a while being around everyone, the environment felt more relaxed as we all became comfortable with one another and a lot of the children joined in with fun of this activity.
The reason I wanted to do this project was to be proud and accepting of my ever changing body and to do something for me for once.
I love photos but have always struggled a bit with how I look in them, so with this motherhood project I wanted to embrace what’s become of me.
From doing this experience, I hope I’m made my children proud for embracing our bodies regardless of how we may look or feel at times; that they learn to love themselves.
During this Motherhood project, Brooke made me feel warm and calm with how chilled she’s been towards me and the kids. I admit my younger boys like to be quite crazy at times, and sometimes as a mum, I just need to breath for a moment to calm some emotions, but at the end of the session, seeing all the smiling faces of my kids and the appreciation of this day, you made me feel normal and appreciative of the family that has become of mine.
From doing this experience, I’ve had a lot of fun creating memories with my kids. We all have had moments of tears, joy and laughter on the day and as a mum having this all happen, with a beautiful backdrop, I’ve learnt to embrace all the craziness I have within my family.
For any mums wondering whether or not to do the motherhood project, I reckon go for it.
I’ve had a lot of fun creating memories with my children and sharing the experience with others.
Yes it can be a bit nervous to do some of the photo shoots, but this is so worth it for the memories you would have afterwards. The amazing photos are so beautiful but most importantly, it shows empowerment of how far we have all come to get here. Everyone has their own story to tell about why they did the project for themselves, and to be able to show what we have achieved out of it , is truly something unmissable.
Thankyou Brooke for letting me part of this years Motherhood project. The photos you have captured of our solos, family’s and group shots look amazing. To be able to share this with many other women has been an awesome unforgettable experience.
When I first arrived for the Motherhood Project, I was nervous — honestly, I felt a little out of place. I questioned whether I even belonged there or if I was ready to be seen. I’ve spent so long just surviving that I forgot what it felt like to show up for myself. But as the day went on, something inside me shifted. Being surrounded by other mothers, hearing their stories, and feeling that energy reminded me that I wasn’t alone. By the end, I felt proud, strong, and deeply connected — not just to the women around me, but to myself again.
I wanted to be part of the Motherhood Project because I needed to find the woman I lost somewhere along the way — through the chaos, the pain, the healing, and the survival. After everything I’ve been through — the domestic violence, the heartbreak, the weight of being a single mum trying to hold it all together — I wanted to see myself in a different light. Not broken, not struggling, but rebuilding. I wanted to capture the strength, love, and resilience that has carried me this far.
I hoped to walk away from this experience feeling proud of who I’ve become. I wanted to see myself the way my children see me — strong, loving, and enough. More than anything, I wanted to feel beautiful again. Not for anyone else, but for me.
Before my session, I was full of nerves, but you made me feel safe and seen from the moment I arrived. During the shoot, I found myself relaxing, letting go, and actually enjoying the moment. For once, I wasn’t thinking about everything that had gone wrong — I was just there, present, and free. Afterwards, when I saw the photos, I got emotional. I thought, “Wow, that’s really me.” A woman who’s been through hell, who’s fought her way back, and who’s finally starting to see her own light again.
This experience has given me so much — emotionally, personally, and as a mum. It’s helped me find confidence, peace, and self-acceptance. It reminded me that I’m not the same woman I once was — I’ve grown, I’ve healed, and I’ve found strength in places I didn’t know existed. As a mum, it made me realise that even on my hardest days, my love is enough. That I’m enough.
If I could tell other mums one thing, it would be this — do it. Even if you’re scared, even if you don’t feel ready, even if you think you’re not enough. You are. This project isn’t just about photos; it’s about healing, rediscovery, and empowerment. It’s about seeing yourself through a softer, kinder lens. Every mother deserves that moment — to be seen, celebrated, and reminded of the incredible strength she carries within her.
And to Brooke — thank you. Thank you for giving me this opportunity and for creating such a safe, beautiful space for women like me to rediscover themselves. You made me feel so free, uplifted, and proud. Your kindness, warmth, and encouragement helped me take one of the biggest steps in my life — to rebuild and finally start seeing myself through love instead of pain. I’ll forever be grateful for this experience and for the way you helped me find a piece of myself again.
Why this mattered
Being part of this project meant so much to me because our babies grow up so quickly, and having these memories while they’re still little is something I’ll cherish forever.
Our bodies go through so much in such a short time to create and bring life into this world, and that deserves to be celebrated.
I was hoping to feel empowered — to be able to look at my body and feel nothing but gratitude for everything it has done.
What stayed with you
There was a moment where I truly let go of feelings that had been holding me back for years… and almost instantly, the sky shifted and it began to rain.
It felt like a cleansing — like everything I no longer needed was being washed away.
Your story
I struggled deeply with post-partum depression, anxiety, and rage after having my son six years ago. I was only 18 at the time. Part of me felt complete — like I finally had what I’d always wanted — but another part of me felt like my life had ended.
With support, I slowly found my way back to myself and eventually felt ready to have another baby. But after three years of trying to conceive with no success, I reached a point where I let go… and that’s when it happened.
I was blessed with my beautiful baby girl.
My pregnancy was challenging, but two days before she arrived, I was finally approved to have a home birth — and it was the most beautiful experience.
This time, I was determined to do everything I could to create a positive and healing post-partum journey.
When I found The Motherhood Project, it felt like it was meant to be — a chance to honour everything I had been through, and to finally see the light in moments that once felt so heavy.
A message for another mum
Motherhood is not easy. It’s heavy, it’s emotional, and it can take a toll on both our mental and physical health.
But we give so much of ourselves every single day for our children… and we deserve to be celebrated for that.
We deserve to be seen, held, and honoured — like the goddesses we truly are.
Capturing the ‘ME’ now is fantastic. I’m still single & extremely happy with where l am. I’ve learnt to love myself & be happy with my body. “This is ME!”
Brooke has captured me, so beautiful images, still can’t believe it’s me. Being with other mums…well.. bit daunting & uncomfortable.. l was the oldest with the midlife spread ( as l call it). My only child, now 26yrs . She has her own child now.
I felt that if these new mums could see themselves at my age. They would think, why did l stress so much about everything. Take each day as it comes. Be thankful for the happy days with your child. Because they grow up very quickly and don’t need you anymore.
I felt in my ailment on the weekend. I was pushing my daughter on an adult swing and her 3yr old on the infant swing, side by side. Here l am giving my girl a hand. At age 26 years.. it never stops. She is my baby & now she has her own. These new mums haven’t felt this yet. It’s coming though. And it feels wonderful!
Put yourself FIRST!
LOVE YOURSELF!
We are constantly caring for everyone else. Do this for YOU!
Brooke done an amazing job making you feel welcome & at ease.
How did you feel at the start of the group photo experience compared to the end?
I was so nervous to be so vulnerable amongst people i didn’t know, but also the same time I was so excited to just be free
What was the reason you wanted to be part of The Motherhood Project?
After such a tramutic birth and losing myself in the depths of PND I really wanted to do something for me, so I could feel like me again.
What were you hoping to get out of it?
Just to be able to feel carefree and myself again.
How did I make you feel before, during, and after your session?
Before, you were so reassuring and calming, during you were so supportive, after you validated everything we were feeling. I felt supposed by you the entire time.
What do you feel you’ve gotten out of it so far — emotionally, personally, or even as a mum?
I honestly think its all still sinking in. But emotionally I was able to let go of all the feelings of not being good enough. After birth, I felt ugly, and I was a shell of the old me. That all went away.
If you could share a few words of encouragement for other mums who are thinking about joining, what would you tell them?
Do it. You absolutely wont regret it. Its so much fun, being in an environment of other women being so carefree and supported.
At the beginning, I was so shy…
I had this big front up — a wall I’d built to protect myself.
You probably wouldn’t have even noticed it,
but I was holding back… holding myself away from fully stepping into the experience.
But something shifted.
By the end, those walls had completely come down.
I felt comfortable. Safe. Seen.
I realised that every single woman in that room was there for her own reasons —
and no one was there to judge.
That’s when everything changed.
I joined the Motherhood Project because I wanted to learn how to love myself again.
I felt like I’d lost my spark…
and while I didn’t expect to find all of myself again in one experience,
this opened the door.
The door to self-love.
To feeling comfortable in my own skin again.
To beginning.
Brooke, you made me feel like I was at home…
like I had known you forever.
And that feeling carried me through the whole experience.
What I’ve taken away from this goes so much deeper than I expected.
I’ve taken the first real steps toward loving myself —
my body, my story, all of it.
But more than that…
hearing other women’s stories changed me.
We all go through so much as mums.
Different journeys, different struggles…
but sitting in that space, sharing and being heard,
made me realise something powerful:
I’m not alone.
There was one moment that really stayed with me…
When we were told to take a deep breath in
and let go of the negative energy we’ve been carrying.
Since that moment, something shifted inside me.
I’ve been able to let go of certain friendships…
to walk away from relationships that no longer serve me —
and feel okay about it.
At peace with it.
If you’re thinking about doing something like this…
even if it feels scary…
Do it.
You won’t regret it.
Because you’ll walk out of that space feeling like a different person —
with a lighter heart
and a whole new way of seeing yourself.
