5 Tips To Prepare You For Your Maternity Photography Session


Growing a tiny human is such a magical experience. It's a time when we experience first hand how incredible and strong a woman's body can be. It's a time to celebrate growth, change and strength and the journey of becoming a mother. When your baby is born, a new you will be born too. These moments deserve to be captured. So that you can focus more on the miracle of life and less on the other things, like preparing for a photoshoot, here are some tips that will make the experience seamless and stress-free.

Plan Ahead


Before you even book a photoshoot, do some research. Maybe it's something you've been dreaming of forever and you know exactly what you want, but trends come and go. You should be thinking about a shoot that is timeless. When I had my first in 2018, I booked a milky bath shoot. They were so popular all over Instagram at the time, but not so much now. When I look back on those photos, I have a lot of regret. They don't celebrate my body in the way it deserved and they have aged terribly. Then in 2020 when I was pregnant with my second, we spent most of the year locked down and I didn't get my second chance. Anyway, do some research and think about what you'd love and what you're comfortable with.

When you do get to booking, around 28 - 34 weeks is an ideal time for your shoot. Your bump will be well and truly showing, and you'll be comfortable enough to move easily and into different positions. It's essential to book early to get the photographer you want, around the date that you want.

Things To Discuss With Your Photographer


Often leading up to maternity sessions, photographers will send out a questionnaire to find out more about what you want but regardless it will be a good opportunity to talk about locations, if you want your shoot indoors or outdoors, if you're willing to get dirty, sandy, wet and/or nude.

Getting Ready


Wear something you feel comfortable in. Something that feels like 'you'. If you feel comfortable you'll be more relaxed which will help you photos turn out great. You can choose from stretchy fabrics that flatter your bump, flowy fabrics that will fall beautifully when you cradle your bump, or even a cute pair of overalls if that's what you love. If you need help when it comes to colours and for even more detail on planning your outfit click here.

To make things even easier, I have a client wardrobe which you are more than welcome to choose from OR you can rent a dress from Mama Rentals and you can get 15% off just by being one of my clients!


Don't be afraid to pamper yourself too. You are celebrating you and deserve to look and feel your absolute best. You could get your hair and makeup done professionally but if you're worried about your budget, there are some great tips for doing your own camera friendly make up here too.

Let's Talk Undies!


Whatever you decide to wear, having the right underwear underneath is a must. Aim for nude seamless underwear and a strapless bra. They will be so versatile no matter what you're wearing. If you're comfortable showing off a lot of skin, and even getting partially or fully nude have a nice lace set in perhaps white, beige or black depending on what else you'll be wearing.

Other people in your photoshoot


Think about if you would like to include your partner or other children if you have them. I like to go with the flow with each session and especially if there are other children involved I like to get their photos out of the way first. It's also a good idea to bring snacks or something for the children to do while they wait for you to have your photos taken.

Last but not least, get plenty of rest the night before, drink lots of water and don't stress. Your photographer is experienced and all you need to do is relax and enjoy!