19 Jun 12 Tips for Beginners At A Maternity Photoshoot

Maternity photoshoots are a beautiful way to capture the joy, excitement, and anticipation of welcoming a new life. For beginners, whether you’re the photographer or the parent-to-be, stepping into this world of photography can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry; with a little preparation and guidance, you can create stunning images that will be cherished for years to come.

This blog provides 12 practical tips to help you make the most of your maternity photoshoot. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer looking to gain confidence or an expectant parent preparing for your first shoot, these recommendations have got you covered.

What to Expect at a Maternity Photoshoot

Before we get into the tips, it’s helpful to understand what a maternity photoshoot typically involves. These sessions are all about celebrating the beauty of pregnancy and capturing the unique bond between the parent(s) and the baby bump. Shoots are usually done during months 7 or 8 of pregnancy, when the bump is prominent but the expectant mom feels relatively comfortable.

Now, let’s look at the 12 tips that can set you apart as a beginner.

1. Choose the Right Time for the Shoot

For maternity photography, timing is everything. The best period for a photoshoot is between the 28th and 34th week of pregnancy. At this stage, the bump is beautifully rounded but not so late in the pregnancy that the mom-to-be feels too uncomfortable to pose for extended periods.

2. Pick the Perfect Location

Location sets the tone for your shoot. Decide whether you’d like an outdoor session in natural light or an indoor studio setting. Outdoor locations, such as parks, beaches, or gardens, can add a sense of serenity. On the other hand, a studio offers controlled lighting and privacy, allowing for more intimate portraits.

Pro Tip:

Scout the location in advance to identify the best spots and lighting, reducing uncertainty on the shoot day.

3. Plan Outfits in Advance

What you wear can dramatically impact the look of your photos. Flowing dresses, fitted gowns, or even casual attire can create stunning images. Neutral tones, pastels, and soft fabrics often work best as they complement the serene and glowing vibes of maternity portraits.

Pro Tip:

Suggest outfits that highlight the baby bump and avoid busy patterns that might distract from the subject.

4. Incorporate Props

Props can add an extra layer of charm and personalization to your photos. Consider using:

• Baby shoes
• Ultrasound images
• A letterboard with a message
• Fresh flowers
• A cozy shawl or blanket

Remember to keep props meaningful and relevant to the personality of the family.

5. Focus on Posing

For photographers, directing poses is one of the most important aspects of a maternity shoot. Some go-to poses include:

• Cradling the baby bump
• Looking off into the distance
• Incorporating the partner by having them kiss the bump or stand behind the mom
• Using natural interactions, such as laughing, hugging, or walking together.

Pro Tip:

Make sure the expectant mom is comfortable in every pose and encourage natural smiles and emotions.

6. Lighting Can Make or Break the Shot

Lighting is critical in photography, especially for maternity shoots where you want soft, glowing results. If outdoors, golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) offers the most flattering light. For indoor shoots, use natural window light or soft artificial lighting to create a warm and gentle effect.

7. Capture Candid Moments

While posed shots are a staple, candid moments can tell a more genuine story. Encourage natural interactions, such as the expectant parents laughing together, or a mom having a quiet, tender moment with her bump.

Pro Tip:

Photographers should be ready to snap these moments quickly, as they often happen unexpectedly.

8. Communicate Clearly Beforehand

Whether you’re taking the photos or being photographed, communication plays a huge role in ensuring a smooth session. Discuss expectations, outfit choices, poses, and location details beforehand. For photographers, asking the parents-to-be about any specific ideas or poses they’d like can make them feel more involved.

9. Keep Comfort a Priority

Pregnancy comes with its own set of physical challenges, so comfort should always come first. Bring a chair or cushion if you’ll be outdoors for long. For photographers, build breaks into the schedule and keep a bottle of water or snacks handy for the mom-to-be.

10. Use Editing to Enhance the Magic

Post-processing can elevate your maternity photos to the next level. Subtle enhancements like adjusting brightness, exposure, and contrast are often enough to create polished results. Filters or presets that maintain a soft, warm tone can also enhance the aesthetic.

Pro Tip:

Don’t over-edit. The focus should always remain on the authenticity and natural beauty of the subject.

11. Tell a Story

Think of the photoshoot as telling a story. Start with wider shots of the couple or surrounding setting, then move on to close-ups of the bump, hands, or props. This variety creates a narrative that will make the photo album extra special.

12. Relax and Have Fun

The most important tip is to enjoy the process. For the mom-to-be, this is a time to celebrate your pregnancy and connect with your baby. For photographers, focusing on a fun and relaxed atmosphere will translate into more genuine, joy-filled photos.

Final Thoughts on Nailing Your Maternity Photoshoot

A maternity photoshoot is all about savoring and preserving this magical time of life. By focusing on preparation, effective communication, and creativity, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable session. Photography beginners, take confidence in knowing that every shoot will add to your experience and expertise.

Want to perfect your skills or book a professional maternity shoot? Explore our curated photo packages and expert tips to elevate your photography or capture your pregnancy photos effortlessly.