Motherhood and the real truth about Mothers breastfeeding
Why Breastfeeding Can Feel Complicated (But Doesn’t Have to Be)
My natural motherhood sessions are open, honest, and capture motherhood in all its raw and intimate beauty. As a London portrait photographer, I focus on families, children, and close connections—including photographing mothers breastfeeding their babies, no matter their age.
In the UK, many mothers stop breastfeeding within the first few months or by their baby’s first birthday, but the worldwide average is three to four years. In some cultures, breastfeeding continues until children are five years old, offering both nourishment and an ongoing bond between mother and child.
Yet here, in the UK, breastfeeding comes with a lot of pressure, judgment, and mixed emotions. This post isn’t about criticising mothers who don’t breastfeed—far from it. It’s about helping new and expecting mums feel empowered, confident, and supported—whether they choose to breastfeed for a few weeks or a few years.
The Fear of “Not Getting It Right”
One of the biggest challenges I see new mums face is self-doubt.
What if I can’t do it?
What if it hurts too much?
What if my baby won’t latch?
What if people judge me?
There’s a huge mental load that comes with breastfeeding, and sadly, many women start their journey feeling like they’re set up to fail before they’ve even begun.
Instead of focusing on pressure and fear, I want to encourage a different mindset: What if it actually works beautifully? What if you enjoy it? What if it becomes one of the most cherished experiences of your motherhood journey?
Breastfeeding in the UK: A Social Stigma?
Even though medical evidence shows that breastfeeding supports a baby’s immune system, cognitive development, and overall health, the UK has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world.
Why? Because beyond physical challenges, social attitudes play a massive role.
Many new mums in the UK feel that breastfeeding in public is still frowned upon, and they worry about people staring, judging, or making comments. This can make even the most determined mother hesitate or stop altogether—not because she wanted to, but because she felt uncomfortable.
Experts agree that these attitudes need to change, and the more we normalise breastfeeding, the more supported new mums will feel.
The Real Truth: Breastfeeding is a Journey, Not a Test
I’m pro-breastfeeding, but that doesn’t mean I’m anti-formula. Every mother’s journey looks different, and no one should feel judged for the choices they make. I breastfed my first for just a few short weeks, so I know how challenging it can be—how exhausting, emotional, and, at times, overwhelming it feels when things don’t go as planned. With my second, I breastfed for six months, but looking back, I wish I had continued for longer. At the time, I stopped for reasons that felt right, but if I could go back, I’d tell myself to trust the process and take it one feed at a time.
If you’re struggling, know this:
It’s not all or nothing—even a few weeks of breastfeeding has benefits.
It gets easier—the first few days can be the hardest, but once you and your baby find your rhythm, it often becomes second nature.
You don’t have to do it alone—there’s support out there. Whether it’s a lactation consultant, a breastfeeding group, or just a friend who’s been through it, having someone to lean on can make all the difference.
Why I Love Photographing Breastfeeding Portraits
Breastfeeding is more than just nourishment—it’s connection, closeness, and an experience only a mother and baby share.
That’s why breastfeeding photography is one of the most intimate and powerful types of portraits I capture. Whether it’s the way a mother gazes at her baby, the little fingers gripping her hand, or the pure sense of calm and protection in that moment, these images tell a story of love, strength, and devotion.
If you’d love to have your own breastfeeding journey documented, I’d be honoured to create something beautiful and meaningful for you.
📸 View My Motherhood & Breastfeeding Sessions Here
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I'm Samantha, a London-based Portrait Photographer, Content Marketer, and Educator. I've been capturing the essence of adults, children, and babies since 2012.
I aim to help individuals, families, and brands forge meaningful connections with themselves and their audiences.
I'm a soulful creative and a purposeful storyteller. My art is an extension of who I am, rooted in values of connection and creativity.
And yes, I'm always up for a bit of worldwide adventuring with my work.