Preparing for a maternity portrait session
Expecting a baby is such an exciting time—and capturing this moment with a maternity session is a wonderful way to celebrate. I know it can feel a bit overwhelming at first—what to wear, where to shoot, how to pose—but it doesn’t have to be stressful. My goal is to make the session feel relaxed, natural, and fun, whether we’re at home or out in a favorite location. Here’s how I like to guide families through preparing for a maternity session:
When is the best time for a maternity session?
You can really schedule a maternity session at any stage, but I usually recommend around 31–36 weeks. By this point, your bump is beautifully round and your body is fully embracing the pregnancy glow.
After week 36, some mamas start feeling a bit uncomfortable—or just over it—which can make sitting for photos less fun. Planning a session a little earlier gives us plenty of time to capture those special moments without being too close to your due date.
What should I wear?
Comfort and confidence come first. Flowing dresses, soft fabrics, or neutral tones tend to photograph beautifully, but ultimately, wear something that feels like you. If you want to include your partner or older children, coordinating without being too “matchy” often works best.
Plan for Relaxed, Real Moments
Some of the best photos aren’t posed—they’re spontaneous. Laughing, holding your bump, walking, cuddling, or even just sitting together—these small, authentic moments are what make maternity photos truly special.
I’m happy to chat through creative concepts if you’re interested in trying something a little different. Nothing too fancy is required—sometimes the simplest, most natural moments end up being the most memorable.
How much skin should I show?
Honestly, that’s completely up to you! Your baby bump is amazing, and if you feel comfortable showing it, we can absolutely include some photos with a bare tummy.
A simple way to do this is to bring your swimwear along—perfect if you want to dip in the water or just feel a little more covered but still highlight your bump.
If you decide to go for a bare tummy, try to remove any tight clothes or elastic bands at least a couple of hours before the session so we don’t get any marks in the photos. But beyond that, it’s all about what makes you feel confident and comfortable—that’s what really shines in the images.
Can my partner / other children be in the photos with me?
Absolutely! I love including your partner and older children in your maternity session. Having your family there helps capture the excitement, love, and connection as you all prepare to welcome your new bub.
If you’re bringing older kids, we’ll start with photos that include everyone. Then, if it works out, sometimes it’s nice to have a little time with just you (and your partner, if you like) to create some relaxed, intimate images too. This way, we capture both the family energy and the quieter, more personal moments.
Where is the best place to have my photo session?
You can choose to be in the comfort of your own home or somewhere outdoors that speaks to you. At-home sessions feel intimate and personal—perfect for capturing quiet, cozy moments. On-location sessions offer natural backdrops and a chance to move around a bit more. Either way, we’ll pick a spot where you feel comfortable and can be yourself.
