Indoor studio maternity photography shoots are my most requested type for moms-to-be — even over outdoor sessions!
So, I like to get everything prepared to ensure the session runs smoothly and my lovely ladies have the best possible experience. After all, happy customers are more likely to return for their newborn shoots when the baby finally arrives.
As a beginner maternity photographer, this opportunity to capture the glowing mother can be daunting. But with my tips and tricks, you’ll be more than ready to make your client (and her partner) feel (and look) their best.
When should you schedule a maternity photoshoot?
Maternity Photoshoot Clothing for Mom and Partner
Maternity photoshoot with Siblings and Pets
Maternity Photoshoot Poses for Mom
Maternity Photoshoot Mom and Partner Poses
Maternity Photoshoot Mom and Child Poses
Maternity Session Preparation
Preparing for studio maternity photography is part of the fun and massively reduces the stress for you and your pregnant client.
Before all my maternity sessions, I run through this list to ensure everything is ready for the soon-to-be mom and her family.
When should you schedule a maternity photoshoot?
What makes maternity shoots different from a regular portrait session? The emphasis is on the belly! With that in mind, I always recommend scheduling photoshoots between 28 and 36 weeks pregnant to ensure a large baby bump.
However, consult with your client — they may have different preferences if they expect multiples or have suffered complications. These moms might want to schedule the shoot sooner. In such cases, flexibility on your part is ultra-important.
Hair, Makeup, and Pampering
There’s nothing like a bit of pampering to make mama feel on top of the world. I suggest finding a reliable hair and makeup artist to recommend to your clients as this can take the stress off them — if they know they’re in good hands, they won’t worry.
I also recommend a manicure and pedicure beforehand. Plus, reminding them to shave their legs and moisturize their body (especially the bump) is a must.
For optimum glow, suggest drinking lots of water a few days before the session to capture the skin at its best.
Not only will all this pampering help mom feel like a million bucks behind the camera, but it also means less post-editing for you.
Keep Mom-to-Be Comfy
Pregnancy is tiring, especially around the third trimester. So, I always do my best to keep my clients comfortable throughout the session by taking regular breaks, providing a plush seating area, and allowing them space and time to change in a separate room.
Additionally, I have snacks and lots of fresh water to hand. Your customer may bring their own food, but it’s best practice to provide some as part of the studio maternity photography experience.
Maternity Photoshoot Clothing for Mom and Partner
You should have a variety of maternity dresses to choose from. While I always allow them to bring their own clothes, selecting from my collection gives the session a unique look and differentiates itself from standard portrait shoots.
Her partner should wear subtle clothing, so they don’t outshine mama and her bump. However, I recommend requesting partners bring a change of shirts (without logos) to coordinate with the dresses on the day.
As for smartwatches and wearable tech, ask your clients to remove them. Their reflective surface wreaks havoc on your final shots.
Maternity photoshoot with Siblings and Pets (if applicable)
Children get tired very quickly and stop cooperating at inopportune moments. So, get shots with toddlers and youngsters done as soon as possible.
Alongside snacks for mom and partner, I tend to provide food for kids and several toys to keep them entertained for the rest of the session.
Some clients like to include their pets (dogs, typically). Ideally, ask the couple to arrange to have their pet dropped off nearer the end of the session and take these photographs last.
Maternity Photoshoot Poses
Once your studio is prepared, it’s time to figure out the poses — perhaps the scariest part for beginner studio maternity photographers.
But you can always make it easier by including props, using stools or posing boxes, and changing the backdrops to complement the dress and change the shot’s atmosphere.
My favorite way to create movement is using large fans for moms-to-be with long hair. The result? A dramatic picture that captures the gravity and beauty of becoming a mother.
Maternity Photoshoot Poses for Mom
When posing mom on her own, silhouettes create stunning looks for even the shyest clients. Position her at an angle with natural light (if possible) and her hands on top of her belly, highlighting the bump.
Typical maternity poses include caressing the belly with both hands and creating a heart shape over the navel.
Maternity Photoshoot Mom and Partner Poses
When mom poses with her partner, ensure you still highlight the belly. One of my favorite poses is to keep mom standing with the partner kneeling, resting his head and/or hands on the bump.
Maternity Photoshoot Mom and Child Poses
For whole family pictures, try to capture everybody’s eyes on the belly. Keep mom, partner, and children tucked in closely to evoke emotion in the photos.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! My preparation and posing tips and tricks will ensure your clients have the best studio maternity photography experience — they might even return for the newborn shots. Make sure to check out my recommendations for lenses for studio maternity sessions.