How to Prepare for a Maternity Photoshoot: Tips from a Photographer
Pregnancy is such a unique and beautiful chapter in your life — one worth celebrating and remembering. A maternity photoshoot isn’t just about capturing your growing bump, but about freezing this extraordinary season of anticipation, love, and transformation. As a photographer, I’ve gathered my top tips to help you prepare so your session feels effortless and results in images you’ll cherish forever.
1. Choose the Right Time
Every pregnancy is different, and the best time for photos is when you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to celebrate your bump. Trust yourself — when it feels like the right moment, it usually is.
2. Outfits That Flatter and Flow
What you wear makes a huge difference in how your photos turn out:
Fitted dresses accentuate your bump and create timeless silhouettes.
Flowy fabrics bring softness and movement to your photos.
Neutral or pastel tones photograph beautifully, though bold colors can work if they fit your style.
Avoid busy patterns that might distract from you and your baby bump.
The best part?
You don’t have to worry about finding the perfect outfit yourself. We have a full studio wardrobe of carefully curated maternity gowns and pieces for you to choose from, so you can feel beautiful and stress-free without bringing anything at all.
3. Don’t Forget About Undergarments
Seamless nude underwear is your best friend during a maternity shoot. If you’re planning on wearing something sheer, delicate bralettes or bandeau tops can look beautiful too.
4. Consider Professional Hair & Makeup
You don’t have to, but many moms-to-be find that having their hair and makeup done helps them feel extra confident and radiant. A touch of makeup that enhances your natural glow can make a big difference in how polished the photos look. We offer professional hair and makeup services to ensure you feel radiant and help you relax knowing everything is taken care of.
5. Bring Your Partner (If You’d Like!)
Including your partner adds an emotional layer to your shoot. Those little moments of connection — a hand on your belly or a hug from your partner — tell your family’s story in the most heartfelt way.
6. Think About Aesthetic
This is the time to think about the look and mood you’d love for your session. Do you imagine something minimal and modern? Soft and romantic? Elegant and glamorous? Your preferences for colors, textures, and lighting will shape the overall aesthetic and ensure your photos feel aligned with your vision.
7. Take Care of Yourself Before the Session
Stay hydrated.
Get a good night’s sleep.
Eat something light but filling before your shoot so you’re comfortable. Don’t worry, we have snacks!
Most importantly, relax — you’re celebrating life and love, and that joy will shine through in your photos.
8. Trust Your Photographer
The best photos come when you feel at ease. We are there to guide you with poses and angles that flatter and feel natural. Don’t worry about “what to do with your hands” — you’ll be directed the entire way.
Final Thought
A maternity photoshoot is about more than just documenting your bump — it’s about honoring this fleeting moment in your life and creating art you’ll treasure. With a little preparation, you can step into your session feeling radiant, confident, and ready to celebrate the beauty of motherhood.