Growing a tiny human deserves the dreamiest documentation! This is such a special season of
life, with so many new beginnings and magical moments. Maternity photos are a once-in-a-
lifetime experience; even if you are pregnant in the future, you will never be pregnant with this
baby again! Any image taken during this time will hold so much memory; it will become a
documentation of a sweet, fleeting moment. With the importance that maternity photos hold, I
strive to help you plan a relaxed and meaningful session.
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
The best time for maternity photos depends on how you want to look, as well as how you feel. Pregnancy can hold a world of unknowns, so trying to time your pictures can be a little difficult. I usually recommend pictures take place between 28-34 weeks, this is when your bump starts to pop, but it isn’t uncomfortable to move around and pose. First pregnancies can take a little longer to show, so take this into consideration when choosing a date for pictures. Booking early can give you the best variety for dates, photographer availability, and season.
When trying to decide details for your pictures, consider things like weather, location, and the overall vibe that you want. Your pregnancy timeline might not coordinate with your dream season, so when you’re envisioning your photos, consider what the weather will look like at that time and how it can impact your final images. Warm summer sunlight, spring blooms, fall colors, and fluffy snowflakes are all elements to consider before landing on your ideal date.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Location has a big impact on the feel of your maternity photos, so it’s ideal to coordinate your scenery with your overall vibe. Some people opt for an at-home session so they can curate a cozy feel or show off their new nursery. Other people like to go for a natural, outdoor feel – setting up in places like fields, wildflowers, parks, tall grass, or in water can complete this beautiful vision. Other families feel more comfortable with an indoor studio session, not only to create a clean and timeless look, but also to give an alternative to the outdoors during colder seasons. You can never go wrong with somewhere meaningful, like your favorite place or where you had your first date!
What to Wear for Your Maternity Photos
Your outfit is all about how confident you feel! This session is for you and the life you are creating, which means you get to wear something that makes you feel amazing. Make sure to plan ahead to avoid the stress of last-minute outfit planning. If you’re taking pictures with your partner or family, pick your outfit first and then coordinate everyone else’s outfit around it! (Coordination > Matching!) Look at the colors of your location to find a look that will complement your setting. When in doubt – neutrals and soft textures can create the most elegant photograph. Try leaning into flowy dresses or a fitted gown that highlights your bump and creates a dreamy maternity look. To maximize the dreamy, cohesive vibes, avoid busy or bright patterns and logos.
Should Your Partner or Kids Be Included?
This is completely up to you! Motherhood is a journey on so many levels, individually and with your family, so it really depends on what feels best. Your pictures can include your partner, other kids, even your fur baby (depending on the location!) With different people, you are able to curate a variety of pictures. Pictures with partners can be fun and silly, or create special and romantic moments. Sibling photos are so special, any images with kiddos interacting with Mom and your bump – unbeatable and SO sentimental! Not to mention, if you do have other people in your pictures, you’re still able to capture solo portraits in the same session. This is definitely ideal if you’re interested in updating family photos while highlighting a new chapter in your lives.
Meaningful Details to Bring
Something so wonderful about maternity photos is how customizable they are. Common additions are ultrasounds, name and due date announcement signs, and special heirlooms like blankets, photos, or jewelry. These details can personalize pictures and add sentimental aspects that you can keep and display with your framed photos. This is definitely optional, but you’ll never regret putting a personal touch in your gallery.
Hair, Makeup & Session Prep
There are a lot of different things that go into preparing for maternity photos, but by the time your picture day is here, all of your big decisions are going to be taken care of! A lot of moms love the opportunity to pamper themselves on the day of, booking professional hair and makeup is a great way to treat yourself and take the pressure off of getting yourself ready. If you’d rather get yourself ready, but still want an excuse to treat yourself, consider booking a facial or spa treatment the week of your session. Plan your outfits ahead of time to avoid stress on the day of your pictures, and don’t forget an extra pair of shoes if you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
Trust Your Photographer & Enjoy the Experience!
Not sure how to pose with your bump? Don’t stress! I will be there to help guide you through the
process and help you with posing and prompts. The beauty of maternity photos is the connection and emotion that they hold; they don’t have to be perfect to feel special. Overall, our goal is to capture this special, genuine moment before your baby arrives. These pictures are such a precious look into a short time period, and celebrate your journey of motherhood. I love getting to capture these magical moments, and it is an honor to create treasured, lifelong memories for expecting families.