Six Tips for Amazing Maternity Photos

A maternity photoshoot is a beautiful way to capture the essence of your pregnancy and celebrate the joy of bringing a new baby into the world. If you’re a mom-to-be, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to create amazing and memorable shots. In this blog post, I’ll share six tips for amazing maternity photos. From finding the perfect outfit to finding the right photographer, these maternity photo session tips will help you have breathtaking maternity portraits you’ll cherish for years.

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Photo credit: Helene Dellavalle took all the photos at Grace by Two Photography. Check out her blog and Instagram, especially if you live in the Central Valley!

Tip One: Find yourself a fantastic outfit.

When shopping for an outfit for your maternity photoshoot, don’t worry about if you’ll wear it again because you probably won’t. Look for something comfortable to wear that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Flowy maternity dresses, fitted tops, and maxi skirts are good options that highlight the baby bump and create a timeless look. Remember to choose colors that complement the location and the season, and avoid bold patterns that can be distracting.

For other family members, like your partner and kids, dress them in outfits with colors or patterns that complement yours. If you are still looking for something to wear for your maternity photos, many photographers have a client closet you can borrow from. Other photographers will help you find the perfect dress to buy.

Pro tip: The best way to look for outfit inspiration is on Pinterest, but stay true to your style. Yes, most maternity photos (including mine) feature pregnant women wearing long dresses with a bohemian vibe. But that’s me. You do you; if you are more comfortable in jeans, leggings, or a body-con dress, WEAR WHAT YOU WANT for your maternity photo shoot. Your photos will be better than ever because you chose to wear what you feel comfortable in.

And if that means pajamas…do pajamas! It could be the next big trend in photography!!

Unfortunately, my dress is no longer available, but I have found a similar dress at free people.

Tip Two: Find a photographer that fits your personal vibe and photography tastes.

While taking beautiful maternity photos alone is possible, hiring a professional photographer can take your maternity photography session to the next level. Professional photographers have the experience and expertise to capture the perfect shots and create beautiful and timeless images you’ll cherish for years.

When looking for a photographer, take your time and search Instagram using hashtags and location tags. My favorite hashtag for local photographers is #(yourlocalcity) photography. Instagram is a great way to explore photographers; although there may be a lot of clicking, it’s easy to see their portfolios and what photos their clients have posted and tagged them in.

For example, for the best photos, if you want a golden hour look, find a photographer with more pictures at that time of day than in the morning. Or, if you prefer natural light photography, choose something other than a photographer who likes to work in a studio. 

Another way to find a photographer is to ask friends or family for recommendations. They may know someone that you would love! 

Pro Tip: The best time to start looking for a maternity photographer is early in the second trimester, so your pregnancy photoshoot can be in your third trimester.

Tip Three: Pamper yourself before the photoshoot.

As a mom-to-be, you deserve to feel like a queen during your maternity photoshoot. One way to look and feel your best is by pampering yourself before the photoshoot. Booking a beauty service on the day of your maternity pictures can boost your confidence in front of the camera and reduce stress. 

Try these services on the day of your photoshoot: 

• Blowout and style for your hair 
• Get your makeup professionally done. 
• Go for a manicure and a pedicure, especially if you wear open-toed shoes for the photos. 

Tip Four: Feed the whole family before the photoshoot.

Eating before the maternity photos is a good idea when preparing for a maternity photoshoot with your family. Many people don’t realize the importance of having a meal before a photo shoot, but here are a few reasons why it’s a must-do:

• It is more likely that everyone will be in a good mood after eating. A photoshoot can be long and tiring, and nobody wants to be hungry and grumpy. Eating a meal before the shoot ensures everyone is well-fed, energized, and in a good mood. 
• Your family will be able to focus more on the task at hand. Hunger can be distracting and make concentrating on the task at hand difficult. 
• Look and Feel Your Best: Eating before a photo shoot can also help you look and feel your best. When you’re hungry, your body can feel weak and tired, which can show in your photos.

Pro Tip:

1. Bring snacks for the kids for bribery purposes.
2. Stick to marshmallows, fruit snacks, or other goldfish.
3. Stay away from anything chocolate or food that can make a mess. 
4. Have your photographer carry the snacks and make friends with the kids that way. 

Tip Five: Listen to your photographer.

When it comes to maternity photoshoots, listening to your photographer is essential. They are experts in their field and can guide you on everything from poses to lighting to ensure you get the best possible shots and maternity poses. As a pregnant mom, it’s essential to trust your photographer’s vision and let them guide you through the process. So spend time looking for the right photographer. 

Be open to trying new poses or locations your photographer suggests, even if they initially seem unfamiliar or uncomfortable. They may have a creative vision that will result in stunning photos you’ll cherish for years. Similarly, listen to their feedback on your wardrobe choices or hair and makeup, as they may have suggestions that will help you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

Remember that your photographer wants to capture the beauty of your pregnancy and create lasting memories for you and your family. By listening to their guidance and trusting their expertise, you can help them achieve that goal and ensure your photoshoot succeeds. So sit back, relax, and let your photographer work their magic – you won’t be disappointed!

Please note that this does not apply to toddlers during the photo shoot. If a toddler doesn’t want to do something, don’t make them. Making a toddler pose or do something they don’t want to do will make the photo look off and throw everyone in a weird mood. You don’t want that. Most photographers have experience working with toddlers, and they can handle it.

Tip Six: Go into your photo shoot with little to no expectations.

The final tip for a fantastic maternity photoshoot is to go into it with little to no expectations. It’s natural to envision what you want the photos to look like, but sometimes, things go differently than planned. Weather, lighting, or unexpected circumstances can all affect the outcome of the shoot, and it’s essential to be flexible and open to change.

I will say this does not apply to toddlers. If a toddler doesn’t want to do something, don’t make them. Making a toddler pose or do something they don’t want to do will make the photo look off and/or throw everyone in a weird mood. You don’t want that.

Going into the photo shoot with an open mind and no expectations allows you to be fully present in the moment and enjoy the experience. Leading to more natural and authentic photos that truly capture the beauty of your pregnancy and your family dynamic.

Additionally, if you go into the shoot without expectations, you won’t be disappointed if things don’t go as planned. Instead, you’ll be able to appreciate the unique and unexpected moments that arise and embrace them as part of the experience.

So, as you prepare for your maternity photoshoot, remember to keep an open mind and be flexible. Trust your photographer’s vision and go with the flow, knowing the final result will be a beautiful and meaningful record of this particular time in your life.

For more posts on photography:

• The Reality of Family Photos
• 15 Tips for Amazing Family Photos
• Tips for Taking Newborn Photos in Your Home

For more posts on pregnancy:

• A Fun and Simple Gender Reveal