A Backyard Full of Love. Reflecting on This Year's Mother's Day Minis

20 May

Written By Maria Litka-Fry

Celebrating Mother’s Day with Marlie and Jo. Photography in Townsville

There’s something truly special about capturing families in a space that feels like home. Because it is.

This year, I had the joy of hosting my Mother’s Day mini sessions right in my own backyard. It felt like the perfect way to celebrate motherhood in all its real, messy, and beautiful moments.

The setup was simple yet meaningful. A natural timber bench took centre stage, with soft linen fabric gently draped behind it to create a timeless backdrop. Fresh baby’s breath added a soft touch, while woven baskets (because if you know me, you know I can never resist a beautiful basket) brought warmth and texture to the scene.

Surrounded by calming greenery, my backyard became a peaceful space where families could relax, and simply be themselves. As little ones giggled in their mothers’ arms, or ran off to explore, I found myself reflecting on this journey.

This year marks five years of Marlie and Jo. Photography.

And this time, something felt different. Something deeper.

Many of the families who joined me for the Mother’s Day minis weren’t new faces. Many of the little ones I photographed were once tiny newborns curled up in my studio. Mums who came to me with their first babies now chased toddlers while nursing their second or third.

It reminded me just how much love, trust, and friendship have grown through this little business of mine.

Witnessing these families grow, their love expand, and their stories unfold is something I will always hold close.

Even though Marlie and Jo. Photography was born five years ago, my photography journey began long before that. In 2017, I started working professionally, capturing everything from grand weddings to corporate events, often under contract for other photographers. Those early years were a whirlwind of fast-paced shoots and steep learning curves, but they shaped me. They taught me how to master technical skills, how to work under pressure, and most importantly how to tell a story through still images.

Over time, I felt a quiet tug in my heart. A longing for something more grounded, more meaningful, and more calm.

I have always been deeply inspired by women. The strength, the love, the way we carry stories, and hold generations together. The women in my own family, past and present, have shaped how I see the world, how I love, and how I mother. And it was through my own journey into motherhood that I truly found my voice as a photographer.

Hosting these sessions at home brought everything full circle. There was no rush, and no pressure. Just mums being seen, and celebrated as they are. Barefoot giggles on the grass, quiet cuddles between photos, and shared smiles between partners.

It filled my heart.

To every mum who trusted me to capture your family this year, thank you. Thank you for sharing your story, and your heart. Thank you for bringing your beautiful chaos into my backyard, and allowing me to be part of your journey.

Here’s to many more years of laughter, love, and growing together.

If you’re looking for family photography in Townsville or dreaming of capturing your own Mother’s Day memories in a relaxed AND natural way, my sessions are designed just for that. They’re all about real love, genuine connection, and preserving the moments that matter most.