Everything you need to know about getting maternity photos taken

Growing a tiny human is kind of a big deal, and maternity photos are such a beautiful way to freeze this moment in time. Whether it’s your first baby or you’re already chasing a few little ones around, this season of life deserves to be celebrated in a way that feels totally you.

Thinking about booking a maternity session? You’re in the right place. I’m sharing everything you need to know to prepare, feel confident, and make your session as relaxed and fun as possible. Here are some frequently asked questions about getting maternity photos taken.

When to Take Maternity Photos

Knowing the best time to schedule your maternity session is key to ensuring you look and feel your best. The ideal window is between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. By this time, your baby bump is beautifully rounded, but you’re still comfortable enough to move around without too much difficulty. Waiting too long might leave you feeling uncomfortable during the session, so it’s always better to aim for the earlier side of this window.

For a deeper dive into the best time to schedule your session, check out my blog post: When to Take Maternity Photos.

What to Wear for Maternity Photos

Choosing the perfect outfit can make a huge difference in how you feel during your session. Flowing dresses are a great option because they highlight your baby bump and create beautiful movement in the photos. Soft, neutral tones like cream, blush, and earthy colors look especially stunning in outdoor settings, but a brighter jewel-toned color would be beautiful, too. Whatever color you pick, make sure it’s something you feel comfortable and confident in.

If you’re unsure about what to wear, don’t worry—I’m here to help! I offer styling assistance to all my clients and have a client closet filled with gorgeous dresses you can borrow, included in the price of your session. These dresses are carefully chosen to photograph beautifully and flatter every body type, making your maternity session stress-free and fun.

For more ideas and tips on what to wear, check out my blog post: What to Wear for Maternity Photos.

Location and Setting for Your Maternity Session

A large part of planning your maternity session is choosing a great location. Whether you prefer a cozy indoor session or the beauty of the outdoors, both options have their perks.

• Indoor Sessions: These are more intimate and cozy, especially in the comfort of your own home. Depending on the time of year, and if you have other kids, this might be a good option to get away from the cold or heat.
• Outdoor Sessions: If you love the idea of being surrounded by nature, outdoor sessions are a great idea. My favorite outdoor locations for maternity photos are in the Columbia River Gorge, the Oregon Coast, and river spots around Portland. Each of these locations offers something unique, from dramatic landscapes to water views.

To make things easier, I provide a full location guide to everyone who books with me, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from!

How to Prepare for Your Maternity Session

Preparing for your session is about feeling good and making sure everything runs smoothly. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

• Get plenty of rest: Feeling well-rested will help you look your best and enjoy the session more.
• Pamper yourself: Consider getting a manicure and your hair and makeup done to make the day feel even more special. Many moms-to-be find that this extra step boosts their confidence and helps them feel radiant.
• Eat beforehand: Make sure everyone has a full belly before the session—this goes for you, your partner, and any other kids. No one wants to be hangry, and it’ll help keep everyone happy.
• Brush your teeth: It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference! Don’t forget to brush teeth beforehand for those close-up shots.
• Don’t forget the lotion: Bring some hand lotion in the car and apply just before we start. Rub it into your cuticles, too. You don’t want dry hands during those closeups of your belly.

Including Your Partner and Kids

You should definitely bring your partner and any older children to your maternity session. This is such a special time for your family, and having everyone there creates beautiful, meaningful photos. Whether it’s capturing the bond between you and your partner as you prepare for your new arrival or documenting your older kids’ excitement, these moments are priceless.

Capturing Authentic Moments

Finally, the most important part of your session is capturing those authentic moments. Don’t be afraid to relax, be yourselves, and do whatever feels natural to you. If you know your little one laughs every time you say a certain word, make sure to use that at the right time. If there’s a game your family loves to play, play it. Adding in your own family traditions or inside jokes can make the session feel uniquely yours. These small, personal touches bring out genuine smiles and real emotion, which is what truly makes your photos stand out.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. It’s the way your partner brushes your hair out of your face, the way your child squeezes your hand, or the way everyone bursts into laughter when something unexpected happens. Those are the moments you’ll treasure when you look back at these photos years from now.

As your photographer, I’ll be there to gently guide you and give suggestions, but the magic happens when you let your guard down and embrace the little quirks that make your family one of a kind.

Book Your Maternity Session

Your maternity session is more than just a photo session—it’s an opportunity to document one of the most important times in your life. If you have any questions or want to know more about booking a session, you can message me here. You can also book directly online. Either way, I’m here to help you every step of the way, from styling to choosing the perfect location. I can’t wait to meet you!