A story of hope, resilience and the power of never giving up

26 September, 2025

At Bartley Studios, we’re privileged to meet families with stories that stay with us long after their session ends. Some journeys to parenthood are straightforward, while others are filled with challenges, heartbreak, and immense strength.

Laura and Martin’s story is one of perseverance and love- a 13-year journey marked by loss, courage, and unwavering belief that one day, their dream of becoming parents would come true. It’s a story that reminds us how precious every new beginning truly is, and how photography can preserve more than a moment, it can honour a journey.

Below, they share their story in their own words.

Can you tell us a little about your journey to becoming parents?

Our journey to become pregnant was gruelling to say the least. It took 13 years, 2 losses, 2 surgeries, 1 big fight to be heard and a heavy financial impact. Our story sadly started with the loss of our daughter at 22 weeks, who sadly had to be terminated after a diagnosis of Patau syndrome. From there, we had to undergo genetic testing, which fortunately came back clear. We continued to try for the years that followed but unfortunately, nothing happened. We then moved towards investigating potential causes. I could only describe this phase as repeated gaslighting by professionals, who dismissed me very easily. This part took its toll significantly on myself and my husband emotionally. It was so draining not being heard for so long. Fast forward to 7 years into the journey and I was finally diagnosed with stage 3 endometriosis. It was such a relief to be diagnosed. I then had surgery to remove the endometriosis. This had to be done privately due to nhs waiting lists following the pandemic being at a 2-year minimum wait.

After a period of rest, then came ivf. We chose Create Fertility, who specialise in mild IVF, meaning fewer injections and a more natural approach. But still, we were surprised by the amount of injections and medications needed. IVF is a real art form. It makes you really appreciate what the body does naturally! Over the course of a year, we built a store of embryos and had them genetically tested. I was then prepped and scanned, and our first embryo was transferred. This one sadly didn’t take. But the second time around, Mila was chosen. She of course, resulted in a successful pregnancy, and we couldn’t be happier with her.

What made you want to capture both your pregnancy and newborn experience with professional photography?

Following the experience we had we just had to capture this happy moment. The years of sadness just made us want to focus on the joy, and what better way to do this than to fill your home with professional photos. Capturing the pregnancy photos was a big part of it for me as I hadn’t imagined that I’d ever see myself with that pregnant belly.

How did it feel seeing the images for the first time?

I was quite emotional. Knowing the nuances of the journey we’ve taken and realising that life was now going to be so much better was just such a relief. It was lovely that the images really captured who we are too; being able to bring in several props helped us and Emily be creative in expressing our family.

Do any of the photos stand out to you as especially meaningful? Why?

We love so many of them! There are so many beautiful ones of Mila: the neutral one with her eyes wide open and the little smile with the ducks to name a few. There’s a few symbolic ones that mean a lot to us, particularly the one with all three of us that exposes Martin’s tattoo of a poppy and a feather next to it. Also, the one with our hands and her feet together with the watch.

What do you hope Mila sees or feels one day when looking at these photos?

We just hope Mila can see how much she was wanted and how much she is loved.

What advice or words of encouragement would you share with other couples on a similar path?

Be each other’s support. Talk openly to one another. You’ll each experience the journey differently, meaning you’ll need plenty of patience and understanding for one another. I’m writing this knowing truly what that means while listening to my baby girl babbling her heart out! It’s worth it. Hold on.

Why do you think it’s important to document these precious early stages, especially after a long journey to parenthood?

Time is fleeting. You can always earn more money, but time can never be gotten back. As time passes and they grow, you forget how they looked once. You forget how you felt. But with these portrait,s we’ve made sure that we’ll never forget. We’ll always appreciate her and the journey it took to get her.

A Final Note…

Laura and Martin’s journey is a testament to hope, love, and persistence. Their words remind us that behind every photograph lies a story – sometimes years in the making. We’re honoured to have played a small part in helping them celebrate the joy they’ve waited so long for.

If you’re on your own journey – whether expecting, navigating early parenthood, or cherishing your family after years of dreaming… we’d love to help you capture your story too.

Find out more about our Bump to Baby Photoshoot vouchers

You can also get inspiration from our Newborn & Baby Photography

We’re a family-run portrait photography studio and have been trading from our Warrington premises for 20 years! Our talented team makes the foundation of our reputation and are truly talented at creating a relaxed, personal experience whilst also generating unique and innovative images for our clients along the way.

Our Studio is located on Horsemarket Street in the centre of Warrington, Cheshire, Just a minute’s walk from the Golden Square Shopping Centre and Warrington Central Station.