Maternity Photoshoot Planning: Capturing Your Journey Together

Pregnancy is such a magical time, isn’t it? The excitement, the anticipation, and the beautiful changes happening to your body and life. One of the best ways to celebrate this journey is by planning a maternity photoshoot. But not just any photoshoot - a couples maternity photoshoot that captures the love and connection between you and your partner as you prepare to welcome your little one. I’ve been there, and I want to share everything I’ve learned about making this experience fun, meaningful, and stress-free.

Why Maternity Photoshoot Planning Matters

You might be thinking, “Do I really need to plan this out?” Absolutely! A little planning goes a long way. When you plan your maternity photoshoot, you get to decide the vibe, the location, the outfits, and the poses that feel most you. It’s your story, after all.

Here’s why planning is key:

• Comfort: Pregnancy can be unpredictable. Planning helps you pick the best time of day and location where you’ll feel comfortable and relaxed.

• Style: You get to choose outfits and props that highlight your personality and the bond you share.

• Memories: Thoughtful planning ensures your photos tell a story you’ll cherish forever.

• Less Stress: Knowing what to expect means you can focus on enjoying the moment instead of worrying about details.

  
  

For example, I once worked with a couple who wanted a cozy, natural vibe. We chose a quiet park at golden hour, and they brought a blanket and baby shoes. The photos turned out warm and intimate because we planned every little detail.

Tips for Successful Maternity Photoshoot Planning

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of planning your shoot. Here are some practical tips that will help you feel confident and prepared:

1. Choose the Right Time

Timing is everything. Most moms-to-be prefer to schedule their shoot between 28 and 34 weeks. Why? Because your belly is beautifully round, but you’re not too uncomfortable yet. Plus, you’ll have plenty of energy to enjoy the session.

2. Pick a Meaningful Location

Think about places that mean something to you as a couple. Maybe it’s the park where you had your first date, your cozy home, or a scenic spot nearby. The location sets the tone for your photos.

3. Coordinate Outfits

You don’t have to match head-to-toe, but coordinating colors and styles helps create a cohesive look. Soft, neutral tones or pastels often work well for maternity shoots. Avoid busy patterns that distract from your beautiful bump.

4. Plan Props and Details

Props can add a personal touch. Some popular ideas include:

• Baby shoes or clothes

• Ultrasound pictures

• Letters or blocks spelling the baby’s name

• A favorite book or toy

  
  

Just remember, less is more. You want the focus to be on your connection.

5. Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your vision, concerns, and any special requests. A good photographer will guide you through the process and make you feel comfortable.

Eye-level view of a serene park with soft sunlight filtering through trees

How to Pose with Husband When Pregnant?

Posing can feel awkward, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. But don’t worry - I’ve got some easy tips to help you and your partner look natural and connected.

Keep It Simple and Intimate

• Hold hands: It’s a simple gesture that shows your bond.

• Forehead touch: Lean in and gently touch foreheads for a tender moment.

• Hands on belly: Both of you can place your hands on your bump to highlight the baby.

• Walk together: Take a slow walk while holding hands or with your partner’s arm around you.

• Sit close: Sitting side by side or with your partner behind you can create cozy, loving shots.

  
  

Use Natural Interaction

Instead of stiff poses, try to interact naturally. Laugh, whisper, or share a private joke. These moments create genuine expressions that photos love.

Mind Your Posture

Stand tall but relaxed. Keep your shoulders back and chin slightly down to avoid double chins. Your photographer will help with adjustments, so don’t stress.

Practice Beforehand

Try a few poses in front of a mirror or take some selfies together. It helps you feel more comfortable and discover what works best.

What to Wear for Your Maternity Photoshoot?

Choosing the right outfit can make a huge difference in how you feel and how your photos turn out. Here’s what I recommend:

For Moms-to-Be

• Flowy dresses: They highlight your bump beautifully and add a dreamy vibe.

• Fitted tops: Show off your belly shape with a snug top paired with a skirt or pants.

• Comfort is key: Avoid anything too tight or itchy.

• Layers: Cardigans, shawls, or scarves add texture and options for different looks.

  
  

For Partners

• Coordinate, don’t match: Choose colors that complement your partner’s outfit.

• Keep it simple: Solid colors or subtle patterns work best.

• Comfortable shoes: You might be standing or walking a lot.

  
  

Accessories and Hair

• Keep makeup natural and fresh.

• Simple jewelry works best.

• Hair should be styled but not overly done.

  
  

Close-up view of a soft, flowing maternity dress draped over a baby bump

Making the Most of Your Couples Maternity Photoshoot

Now that you’ve planned the when, where, and what, let’s talk about how to make the day itself amazing.

Relax and Have Fun

This is your moment. Don’t stress about perfection. Laugh, be silly, and enjoy the experience with your partner.

Trust Your Photographer

They know how to capture the best angles and moments. Follow their lead and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Bring Essentials

• Water and snacks

• Touch-up makeup

• A change of clothes if you want variety

• Any props you planned

  
  

Capture Candid Moments

Some of the best photos happen when you’re not posing. Let your photographer catch those spontaneous smiles and glances.

Plan for Weather

If you’re shooting outdoors, have a backup plan for rain or extreme heat.

Your Maternity Photoshoot Is Just the Beginning

Taking the time to plan and enjoy your maternity photoshoot is more than just getting pretty pictures. It’s about celebrating your journey together and creating memories that will last a lifetime. When you look back at these photos, you’ll remember the excitement, the love, and the anticipation of welcoming your baby.

If you’re ready to capture this special time, consider booking a couples maternity photoshoot that focuses on your unique story. It’s a beautiful way to freeze this moment in time and share it with your family for years to come.

Remember, this is your story - make it as joyful and authentic as you are!

When do I book a Senior Session?

Never too early to book your senior sessions. They may be due in October/November, or due in early Spring as every district is different. It is time to think about it in your child's Junior year. Why? Different seasons give different looks. What vision does your senior want for their photos? In Washington we have pretty set seasons. Flowers bloom select times of the year, weather is wet about 7+ months in a year, and daylight is limited half of the year.

Spring... The best time to book for flowers, and colorful sunsets. My personal favorite is Cherry Blossoms and Tulips. We can also go on a little adventure for some lingering snow without road conditions impacting the drive to the nearby mountains.

Summer is great for the beach sessions without the cold/windy conditions. Jetty Island is actually my favorite beach in the summer so shoot at. It is only open 8 weeks a year, accessible by walk on Ferry. Also, the later sunset sessions mean it is easier to work around work schedules/teen life schedules. Lavender, sweet pea and Delilah flowers bloom in the summer. Tall yellow grass is also easier to find since we are in the dryer season. Rivers are lower and rocks visible make for more dramatic backdrops. We have a couple smaller hikes to local waterfalls for that look. Another adventure I like to go on is in the mountains for wildflowers blooming.

Fall... well it is certainly a favorite time of the year for cooler weather, leaves changing colors, and pumpkin spice. Perfect for your senior that loves a good sweater, book, and warm drink in hand. It starts getting harder to find flowers, tall grass, and clear weather. The days also get shorter and my session calendar fills up fast, not to mention student calendar with senior activities, homework, and sports fill up.

I also love to incorporate a senior's passion. Do they play sports? Do they like art, or reading? Do they enjoy horses? I love to include it to make a custom experience for them.

So talk with your senior about what they want for senior photos. Seasons do matter. Be proactive about booking early. I offer a payment schedule with advance booking.

How to Work with Kids During a Photo Session

Toddlers/kids. Let's talk about the parents' expectations vs reality. When booking a session with me, the parents biggest question is if I know how to handle their child. Of course I do, but it may not be in a way you expect. Let me explain.

Expectation: Perfect posing, perfect smiles, Mary Poppin styles to handle tantrums, and always looking at the camera. Keep in mind a lot of us photographers share our best work. So of course when we get a child smiling, being cute, and running carefree we share those photos. Yes we get those kids, but not all the time.

Reality: Kids are shy.. I have a big camera, and a flash stand most of the time. They are in a new area and so this can cause a sensory overload in being distracted or not following directions. Stranger danger is also VERY real with most young kids so the last thing they want to do is be friendly with a new person that has a big camera and lens. Older kids can have other issues. They don't want to be there. They want to watch TV or play their video games (I have experienced this personally with my own kids). Teens may have insecurities, with their braces, teeth, outfit, body. It is very real. Teens may not like to pose or smile in a way you want them to. We have little people of all ages learning how to process and control emotions in a very sensory overloaded scenario.

Now what do I do with these situations?

1.) Time and space. Parents should, if able, arrive a little early. Let kids explore and get the wiggles out. Maybe have them in play clothes and change them right before the session if you are worried about them getting photo clothes messy.

2.) Snack/meal before the session. Have it be their favorite. I get 'hangery' as does the rest of my family. So make sure kids aren't hungry and having it be their favorite makes them extra happy. I am not saying give them a cupcake or giant bowl of ice cream. Just compromise with their favorite cracker snack. Favorite fruit/veggie. Favorite snack bar. McDonalds Chicken nuggets and fries. Photo sessions are not done often so make their snack one of those rare meals/snacks they get for special occasions.

3.) I introduce myself, and let kids look at my camera if they don't immediately tuck their tail behind mom and dad. I give them a couple minutes to process that I am a safe person. This includes talking to mom and dad. I get on their level when talking to them, so I am less intimidating. During the session, I show them photos of them on the back of the camera. They LOVE looking at themselves in photos and are typically eager to pose again, listening to instructions more.

4.) Breaks as needed. I get kids sometimes need a reset. Throwing rocks in the water or showing me how fast they can run. Some like talking to me about their favorite TV show, animal, or pet. They bring their favorite toy and want to play with it, or show it to me. Some want me to photograph it. I oblige knowing it most likely won't be picked (but some parents end up loving it) While I do try to move things along, I also try not to rush them. That is a fast track to a complete shutdown or melt down.

Closing Take Away for Parents

I am only human, and so while I do everything in my Power/experience, I am never successful 100% of the time. Even after all the steps, hard headed children will do what they want. I tell parents to just embrace this time. It is a chapter and you should be capturing these moments anyway. The goofy face, the serious glare, the pout. It is a part of your child.

Parents/guardians, I just have one piece of advice for you. Breathe and let it go. Having these high expectations can stress you out. If kids don't have those perfect smiles, some parents may get upset/stressed/frustrated. This will feed off of you, and your children will pick up on it. It will make my job harder if I get these intense vibes from all sides. If you have fun and go with the flow, we can capture some fun images and looking back 20 years from now, you will cherish them just as much as if they had the perfect face.

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