The Beauty of Pregnancy
Capturing the beauty of pregnancy through a maternity photoshoot is a wonderful way to preserve this special moment in your life. Whether it’s your first baby or your last, these tips will help you prepare for a stunning and stress-free session.
1. Plan Ahead
Maternity photos are best taken between 28-34 weeks, when your baby bump is beautifully rounded but before you become too uncomfortable. Start by selecting a professional photographer who specializes in maternity sessions and whose style resonates with you. Once booked, discuss location, styling, and vision for your shoot. If you plan to include your partner, children, or pets, coordinate outfits and logistics in advance.
2. Choose the Right Outfit
Your outfit should be comfortable yet stylish, highlighting your baby bump beautifully. Consider:
✔ Flowy dresses – Soft, romantic, and perfect for movement.
✔ Fitted dresses – Showcase your bump while keeping an elegant silhouette.
✔ Lingerie or draped fabric – A more intimate and artistic option.
✔ Solid colors or soft patterns – Avoid busy prints that distract from your belly.
✔ Complementary tones – Neutral, pastel, or jewel tones photograph beautifully.
Bring multiple outfit options and talk to your photographer about what wardrobe options they have for you. This gives you variety in your final gallery. I recommend at least 3-5 different looks for a wide variety in your gallery.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can add personality and elegance to your photos. Consider:
✨ Jewelry – Statement pieces are beautiful to photograph with fine art nude portraits
✨ Scarves or shawls – Great for adding texture and warmth.
✨ Hats – A chic wide-brim hat can really create a moody elevated portrait
Keep accessories simple and cohesive with your chosen outfit.
4. Professional Hair and Makeup is Worth It
A maternity photoshoot is a great excuse to pamper yourself. Professional hair and makeup artists know how to enhance your features for the camera, ensuring a polished yet natural look. Opt for:
💄 Soft, glowing makeup – Enhances your natural beauty.
💇♀️ Loose curls, waves, or an elegant updo – Timeless and flattering.
I recommend staying more natural as it creates a timeless look that you will cherish for years to come.
5. Relax and Enjoy the Moment
Feeling nervous? That’s completely normal! But confidence and joy translate beautifully on camera. A few ways to stay relaxed:
✔ Play music that makes you feel good.
✔ Breathe deeply and trust your photographer’s direction.
✔ Bring a loved one along for support.
✔ Think about your baby and the excitement of meeting them soon.
The more at ease you are, the more natural and stunning your photos will be.
6. Embrace Your Body and Pregnancy Glow
Pregnancy is a powerful and beautiful experience. Celebrate your changing body and focus on the miracle you’re growing. Trust your photographer to guide you into flattering poses that showcase your baby bump gracefully.
If you’re self-conscious about anything, communicate with your photographer in advance so they can highlight your best features and create images you love.
7. Consider Outdoor Locations for Natural Beauty
Natural light is incredibly flattering, making outdoor locations a great choice. Some beautiful options include:
🌿 Parks or gardens – Greenery adds a fresh, serene backdrop.
🏖 Beaches – Soft sand and ocean waves create a dreamy, timeless look.
🌅 Fields at golden hour – Warm sunlight enhances the glow of pregnancy.
🌲 Forests or mountains – Ideal for an adventurous, earthy vibe.
If you prefer a studio session, soft lighting and simple backdrops can create a timeless, editorial feel.
8. Incorporate Meaningful Props
Props can add sentimentality and personality to your session. Consider:
🍼 Baby booties or ultrasound photos – A sweet way to include your baby.
🎀 A tiny onesie or blanket – Symbolizing the little one’s arrival.
🐶 Pets – If your furry friend is part of your family, include them!
📝 Handwritten notes or name signs – A beautiful personal touch.
Use props sparingly so they enhance rather than overpower the focus on you and your bump.
9. Experiment with Poses and Expressions
Don’t be afraid to move, laugh, and interact with your surroundings. Some classic maternity poses include:
✔ Cradling your belly gently.
✔ Looking down lovingly at your bump.
✔ Silhouettes against sunset light.
✔ Walking hand-in-hand with a partner.
✔ Lying down for an overhead perspective.
A good photographer will guide you through different poses to capture a mix of playful, emotional, and elegant moments.
10. Review Your Photos and Select Your Favorites
After your session, schedule a photo reveal with your photographer. Take your time reviewing the images and selecting the ones that resonate with you most. Consider how you’d like to display them:
🖼 Framed wall art – A beautiful addition to your nursery.
📖 An heirloom album – A timeless keepsake to cherish.
💌 Thank-you cards or baby shower invitations – A personal touch for loved ones.
Choose photos that capture the essence of your personality, emotions, and journey into motherhood.
By following these tips, your maternity photoshoot will not only result in breathtaking images but also a memorable, empowering experience. Embrace this special time, celebrate your body, and enjoy the magic of capturing your pregnancy story!
Written by: Stephanie Blum
Stephanie Blum is a professional maternity portrait photographer in Morris County New Jersey. She creates editorial style images for her clients maternity session and designs beautiful custom heirloom albums and wall art for clients as she understand capturing this moment in your motherhood journey is so important to you.