As an expectant mother, witnessing the remarkable changes and growth in your body as you nurture new life within is an exhilarating experience. It's a time filled with joy, anticipation, and, if you're anything like me, a touch of nervousness. Amidst the whirlwind, it's easy to overlook the importance of capturing this extraordinary phase. Personally, I regret not taking monthly photos to chronicle my journey.
Maternity photoshoots offer an exceptional opportunity to immortalize your pregnancy and commemorate the miracle developing within you. They enable you to capture this fleeting moment, creating timeless memories that will be cherished by you and your loved ones for years to come. To help you seize this occasion, we've curated a collection of our favorite maternity photo ideas, accompanied by valuable tips on how to bring them to life.
Embrace the beauty of this chapter and let your maternity photos become a treasured keepsake of this remarkable journey.
These maternity photo shoots are often take place in serene outdoor settings like parks, gardens, or wooded areas
1. Nature Inspired Maternity Photoshoot
In recent years, there has been a growing trend among expectant mothers to embrace nature-inspired maternity photoshoots, incorporating the breathtaking beauty of the outdoors into their pictures. These photo sessions often take place in serene outdoor settings like parks, gardens, or wooded areas, allowing for the integration of natural elements such as blooming flowers, majestic trees, and tranquil water features.
The allure of nature-inspired shoots lies in their ability to provide a tranquil and soothing atmosphere, serving as a harmonious backdrop for capturing the beauty of pregnancy. As pregnancy itself is a profoundly natural process, these types of photoshoots can foster a deeper connection between expectant mothers and the wonders of nature, as well as the new life blossoming within them.
By embracing the natural world, these maternity photoshoots encapsulate the essence of this extraordinary journey in a truly captivating and authentic way.
Tips for creating Nature Inspired Maternity Shoots
Choose the right location. Look for a spot that has natural beauty and fits the aesthetic you're going for. Consider the time of day and the lighting, as well as any potential distractions (like other people or animals in the area).
Plan your outfit. Choose clothing that complements the natural setting, such as flowing dresses or earthy tones. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors that might clash with the scenery.
Incorporate natural elements. Think about ways to include natural elements like flowers, leaves, or water in your photos. This could involve holding a bouquet, standing in a field of wildflowers, or even wading in a stream.
(Video) Hiding my 9 month Pregnancy Bump…😛 (part 3) #shortsWork with a photographer who understands your vision. Make sure to communicate your ideas and preferences with your photographer, and look for someone who has experience with nature-inspired shoots and can help bring your vision to life.
Some of our favs!
2. Minimalistic Maternity Photos
In contrast to the nature-inspired trend, minimalistic maternity shoots are all about simplicity and understated elegance. These shoots typically feature clean lines, neutral colors, and minimal props or accessories.
Opt for colors like white, black, gray, or beige… Consider playing with shadows or silhouettes to add depth and interest to your photos.
The goal of a minimalistic shoot is to create a timeless and classic look that will never go out of style. This can be especially appealing for expectant mothers who prefer a more streamlined and modern aesthetic.
Tips for creating a Minimalist Maternity Shoot:
Choose a neutral color palette. Opt for colors like white, black, gray, or beige, which will create a clean and timeless look. Avoid bright colors or busy patterns, which can be distracting.
Keep props and accessories to a minimum. The focus of a minimalistic shoot should be on the expectant mother and her bump, so avoid adding too many props or accessories. If you do use props, choose ones that are simple and understated, like a blanket or a single flower.
Experiment with lighting. Minimalistic shoots often rely on natural lighting or simple studio lighting setups to create a clean and uncluttered look. Consider playing with shadows or silhouettes to add depth and interest to your photos.
Consider your pose and composition. Minimalistic shoots often feature simple, classic poses that showcase the expectant mother's bump. Think about how you can create a balanced and visually appealing composition without adding too many elements.
Some of our Favs!
(Video) Trying this trend at 39 weeks pregnant #shorts
3. Captivating and Intimate Maternity Boudoir Photography
Embrace and Empower: Capturing the Beauty of Maternity through Boudoir-Inspired Photoshoots. Boudoir-style maternity shoots provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the sensuality and allure of pregnancy and maternity.
Let these captivating images become cherished mementos of your radiant and empowered self during this extraordinary chapter.
These photoshoots beautifully capture the intimate connection between you and your partner (if you include them), emphasizing the deep bond nurtured throughout pregnancy. By embracing the boudoir style, these photoshoots offer a space to showcase the inherent grace and confidence that accompanies the journey to motherhood. Let these captivating images become cherished mementos of your radiant and empowered self during this extraordinary chapter.
Tips for creating a Boudoir Style Maternity Shoot
Choose the right clothing. Lingerie or other intimate clothing is a key element of a boudoir-style shoot. Choose pieces that make you feel beautiful and confident, and that flatter your changing body.
Set the scene. The location and setting of your shoot can play a big role in creating the right mood. Consider a romantic bedroom setting or a cozy studio with soft lighting and plush textures.
Work with a trusted photographer. It's important to work with a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and who understands the style and mood you're going for.
Don't be afraid to get creative. Boudoir-style shoots can be playful and fun, so don't be afraid to experiment with poses or props that showcase your personality and style.
Some of our Favs!
4.Family Focused Maternity Photos
Embracing Togetherness: Capturing the Love and Anticipation in Family Maternity Photoshoots. Family-centric maternity shoots center around capturing the boundless joy and excitement of growing your family.
Let these cherished photographs become a testament to the love and bond that will continue to flourish as your family grows.
These heartwarming sessions go beyond solely featuring the expectant mother and often include her partner, children, and even beloved pets. The essence of a family-centric shoot lies in creating a collection of photos that beautifully portray the deep love and connection shared by all family members while celebrating the imminent arrival of the newest addition.
These sessions are a testament to the unity and anticipation that fills the air as your family eagerly awaits the arrival of the little one. Let these cherished photographs become a testament to the love and bond that will continue to flourish as your family grows.
Tips for creating a Family Style Maternity Shoot
Choose a meaningful location. Consider a location that holds special meaning for your family, such as a favorite park or beach, or even your own backyard.
Coordinate outfits. Choosing complementary or matching outfits can help create a cohesive look for your photos. Consider incorporating colors or patterns that tie in with your chosen location.
Incorporate props or activities. Props or activities can help add interest and variety to your photos, and can also help capture the personality and interests of your family members.
Plan for breaks and snacks. Family photo shoots can be tiring, especially for young children or pets. Be sure to plan for breaks and bring along snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy and comfortable.
Some of our Favs!
5.Creative Style Maternity Photos
Creative concept maternity shoots are all about thinking outside the box and coming up with unique and unexpected ideas for your photos. These shoots often feature props, costumes, or other creative elements that help to tell a story or convey a particular mood or emotion. If you are expecting an IVF baby, perhaps you will take a photo with the needles used to create your baby.
The goal of a creative concept shoot is to create something that is truly one-of-a-kind and that showcases your personality and style as an expectant mother.
Tips for creating aCreativeStyle Maternity Shoot
Brainstorm ideas. Take some time to brainstorm ideas for your shoot. Think about your interests, hobbies, and passions, and consider how you might incorporate these into your photos.
(Video) Mia Greyson does the BABY MAMA DANCE 👶🏻#dance #funny #shorts #momChoose the right props and costumes. Once you have a concept in mind, choose the right props, costumes, and other elements to bring your vision to life. Consider renting or borrowing items if you don't want to purchase them outright.
Work with a creative photographer. Look for a photographer who is willing to experiment and try new things. Make sure you communicate your ideas clearly and work together to bring your vision to life.
Keep it authentic. While you want your shoot to be creative and unique, make sure it still feels authentic to you and your personality. Don't be afraid to incorporate elements that are meaningful to you, even if they might not be the most obvious choice.
Some of our Favs!
From nature-inspired shoots to creative concepts, there are plenty of exciting trends to choose from when it comes to capturing your bump in photographs. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends, you can find inspiration and ideas for your own maternity shoot.
One of the most important things to consider when planning your maternity shoot is finding a photographer who can capture your unique vision. Look for someone who is not only skilled in their craft but also willing to collaborate with you to bring your ideas to life.
As an expectant mum, your pregnancy is a special and fleeting time in your life that deserves to be celebrated and remembered. By embracing your bump and capturing it in photographs, you can create a lasting memory of this incredible experience.
So whether you choose a nature-inspired shoot, a minimalist approach, or something more creative, don't be afraid to let your personality and style shine through in your maternity photos. With the right photographer and a little bit of planning, you can create a set of images that truly capture the joy, excitement, and beauty of this incredible time in your life.
xx
Katie
FAQs
What week of pregnancy is best for maternity photos? ›
When Should You Take Maternity Photos? I always say, the best time for maternity pictures is when you feel good and are still feeling comfortable. In most cases this is during your 7th or 8th month of pregnancy, between 30-36 weeks.
Is 37 weeks too late for maternity photos? ›While the best time frame for a maternity photo session is around 28 to 36 weeks of the pregnancy, expecting mothers can enjoy a shoot as long as they're not a little too close to their delivery dates and they can still move around with a growing baby bump.
Is 35 weeks too late for maternity photos? ›The general “rule” as to which week or month is best to book your maternity photo shoot, is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. That is between the seventh and eighth months of pregnancy, which is the middle of the third trimester. So for those asking, 35 weeks is not too late for maternity photos!
What color should I wear for maternity pictures? ›Shades like white, cream, light gray, tan, khaki and even pastels in blush, faint blues and minty teals, will give your photos a fresh, romantic vibe. These colors are universally flattering and work well for pregnant mamas and their spouses for such special memories!
Is 32 weeks too late for maternity photos? ›The best time to take maternity photos is between 28 and 32 weeks. That way you are showing but not so far along that you are too uncomfortable during our session. If you are having multiples we may want to shoot a little earlier.
Is 34 weeks too late for maternity photos? ›The perfect time for maternity photos is somewhere between 26 and 34 weeks (7 or 8 months). You want your bump to be fully showing, nice and round, but you don't want to be so close to your due date that you are uncomfortable, or risk delivering before you make it to your sesson!
Is 38 weeks too late for maternity leave? ›Unless specified by your employer, you can continue working right up until your due date if you wanted to. However it's usual to take your leave a week or two before your due date, to avoid the stress of going into labour at work and ensure the safe, planned arrival of your baby.
What time is best for outdoor maternity photos? ›About an hour or so before the sun is set to set. The closer your session is scheduled to the time the sun is rising or setting is going to be the best time of day 😉 So if the sun is scheduled to set at 8 PM, for example – 5 or 6 PM is going to be MUCH better than 12 PM.
What happens if you turn 35 while pregnant? ›Pregnancies have an increased risk for certain complications when the birth parent is 35 or older. Some of these complications are higher rates of miscarriage, genetic disorders, and certain pregnancy complications like high blood pressure or gestational diabetes.
What are the issues with pregnancy after 35 weeks? ›After age 35, there's a higher risk of pregnancy-related complications that might lead to a C-section delivery. The risk of chromosomal conditions is higher. Babies born to older mothers have a higher risk of certain chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome. The risk of pregnancy loss is higher.
Is 33 weeks good for maternity photos? ›
Best time for Maternity Session
The best time to do maternity session is around 30 to 33 weeks. At this stage the belly bump is showing nicely and it is not too close to the due date. Earlier than 30 weeks the stomach might not be as round and it might not show properly in the photos.
Gently touch and rub your belly, or massage it. Respond to your baby's kicks. In the last trimester, you can gently push against the baby or rub your belly where the kick occurred and see if there is a response.
How can I accentuate my pregnant belly? ›Wear a stretchy, form fitting dress and tie your button-up shirt around your waist, just below your belly. Or, wear it open over your dress or leggings. You can also wear it buttoned, but knot it just above your belly for another cute, bump accentuating look!
How to look slim in maternity pictures? ›GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR CAMERA ANGLE
Getting up high and shooting down on your subject is a sure fire way to create a slimming portrait. It creates the illusion of elongating the body and thus it has a wonderful slimming effect (pregnant or not, I might add).
The best color is usually pink because it brings out the glow in your skin and makes you appear a bit like you are blushing, adding to the intimate nature of the photos.
What should husband wear for maternity photos? ›Men should bring jeans or khaki pants or any other dark bottoms. I encourage soft (not starched), plain white shirts. Cotton and linen are both great choices. Throw a regular, WHITE and/or BLACK crew-neck t-shirt in the bag, too.
What shoes to wear for maternity photos? ›Comfortable Shoes
While for any other occasion I'd wear heels, I haven't been wearing heels often during pregnancy (also because I'm not going out much, thanks COVID). If I do wear heels, they are low and/or chunky. I will probably bring a pair of chunky-heeled sandals and flat sandals for these photos.
How many outfits should you bring to your maternity photo shoot? I suggest bringing 2 to 3 outfits to your studio maternity session. This will add some variety to your final gallery of photographs, and also gives you the opportunity to mix and match styles if you would like to.
Is 30 weeks too late for a babymoon? ›Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly up until about 36 weeks. Most babymoons are taken in the third trimester.
How many weeks is full term pregnancy? ›What is a full-term pregnancy? Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks (280 days) from the first day of your last menstrual period (also called LMP) to your due date. Your due date is the date that your provider thinks you will have your baby.
When should I stop working 34 weeks pregnant? ›
Most women can physically handle their usual workload up until about 32 to 34 weeks of pregnancy.
What are the disadvantages of giving birth at 34 weeks? ›The main health complications for babies born at 34 weeks of gestation include difficulty with lung capacity and breathing. The earlier a baby is born, the greater the likelihood of bleeding in the brain. These hemorrhages may be mild; however, babies with more severe brain bleeding can have permanent brain damage.
How much should I spend on maternity photos? ›How much should these Maternity Photos cost? Budget photographers are typically between $250-$400.
What not to ignore at 38 weeks pregnant? ›38 weeks pregnant symptoms not to ignore
Constant pain in abdomen or anywhere else. Really sudden swelling in your legs, ankles, hands, feet and face. Mid sternum chest pain. You feel like your baby is not moving or has reduced movement.
57.5 percent of all recorded births occur between 39 and 41 weeks. 26 percent of births occur at 37 to 38 weeks. About 7 percent of births occur at weeks 34 to 36. About 6.5 percent of births occur at week 41 or later.
Is 40 weeks the ideal maternity leave length? ›And according to a report published by The New America Foundation, for optimal health of mother and baby, paid maternity leave should be a minimum of 6 months. Breastmilk promotes sensory and cognitive development and protects the infant against infectious and chronic diseases.
When should you take bump pictures? ›Everyone starts to show at different times during their pregnancy. For some women, they look pregnant quickly – while other women take a few months to grow a bump. There is no right or wrong time to start taking baby bump pictures – it's all up to the Mom's personal preference.
When should a birth photographer arrive? ›The main goal is usually making sure your birth photographer arrives while you are still in labor, and not after the baby is born! In order for that to happen, an early heads up with consistent communication is required.
Are maternity photos worth it? ›So, it's especially important to capture these moments because you won't be pregnant forever, and your pregnancy will fly by quicker than you anticipated. Having maternity photos to look back on will be a standing reminder of that magical time when new life was gestating inside your belly.
Is pregnancy harder after 35? ›So as you get older, you have fewer and fewer eggs, and the eggs you have aren't easily fertilized by a man's sperm. All this makes it harder for you to get pregnant. If you're older than 35 and have been trying for 6 months to get pregnant, tell your health care provider.
What are the odds of Down syndrome at 35? ›
Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels. The risk increases with the mother's age (1 in 1250 for a 25 year old mother to 1 in 1000 at age 31, 1 in 400 at age 35, and about 1 in 100 at age 40). However, 80% of babies with Down syndrome are born to women under age 35 years.
What is the oldest woman to give birth naturally? ›Xinju Tian, who was 67 years old when she gave birth in 2023, set a new record for the oldest woman to give birth naturally. In late October 2019, it was reported that 67-year-old Xinju Tian had given birth to a healthy baby girl, making international headlines.
What causes stillbirth after 35 weeks? ›A stillbirth is the death of a fetus in the uterus after week 20 of pregnancy. The reasons go unexplained for 1 in 3 cases. The rest may be caused by problems with the placenta or umbilical cord, high blood pressure, infections, birth defects, or lifestyle choices.
What symptoms should I not ignore at 35 weeks pregnant? ›Sudden or severe swelling in your face, hands or fingers. A severe headache or one that doesn't go away. Pain or cramping in your lower abdomen or severe back pain. Pain or burning when you urinate or decreased urine output.
What is the survival rate of 35 weeks delivery? ›In fact — good news — a preemie baby born at 34 to 36 weeks has nearly a 100 percent chance at survival and the same chances at long-term health as a baby who was born full-term.
Can you wear black for maternity photos? ›What Color Should You Wear? The reason you're booking this maternity photo session is to show off that beautiful bump, so make sure to wear colors that will show it off. Meaning do NOT wear black or navy or any other super dark color. It hides the bump and makes it hard to see, and that's not what you're going for.
Do you have to wear a dress for maternity pictures? ›If you really don't like a dress, you don't have to wear one! These are your photos, after all, and we want them to feel authentically you! You could choose a maxi skirt and shirt combo or consider a maternity romper.
Is 30 weeks too early for maternity leave? ›Since every pregnancy, labor and delivery is different, there's no “official” maternity leave start date. Based on the FMLA, maternity leave can begin before baby is born, if an expecting parent chooses to use some of that time for prenatal appointments, severe morning sickness, bedrest or another complication.
Why do pregnant ladies hold their belly? ›For some moms-to-be, constantly touching, patting, rubbing and holding their belly can be soothing. For others, it's a way to feel close to the baby inside. But no matter the reason, rubbing your belly simply makes you feel good.
Does baby know when dad touches belly? ›And the bonus? Baby may start to know when their father is touching mom's belly. Babies can sense touch from anyone, but they can also sense when touch (and voice) is familiar. And by 24 weeks into pregnancy, dad can usually feel baby kick – but the exact time varies.
Does baby like it when I touch my belly? ›
Researchers in Scotland compared fetal responses when pregnant women spoke to their babies or rubbed their bellies. "Overall results suggest that maternal touch of the abdomen was a powerful stimulus, producing a range of fetal behavioural responses," the researchers write.
What not to wear during pregnancy? ›Avoid tight belts, bras, girdles, slacks, garters, and knee socks. Clothes that decrease circulation in the legs lead to varicose (enlarged) veins. Find a bra that fits and provides good support to your breasts . Buy a nursing bra if you plan to breastfeed your baby.
Which month is best for maternity photoshoot? ›In most cases this is sometime in your 7th or 8th month of pregnancy or between 28-34 weeks. During this time, you will have a fairly sizeable bump and your baby will not have dropped down too far yet. The start of your third trimester is the perfect time for a maternity photoshoot.
How can I prevent my belly from sagging during pregnancy? ›- Wear loose-fitting clothing during pregnancy.
- Ensure you don't put on too much weight during pregnancy.
- Eat a diet with lots of healthy fats and proteins (or a collagen-rich diet)
- Develop a cardio and strength training routine.
- Keep hydrated – drink lots of water.
If you can tell mama is pregnant with a straight on shot, make sure you get one. Twisting to the side is obviously where it's at for all pregnant moms, but she doesn't have to be completely turned to the side, 45° angles can work well too.
Is 30 weeks a good time for maternity pictures? ›Best time for Maternity Session
The best time to do maternity session is around 30 to 33 weeks. At this stage the belly bump is showing nicely and it is not too close to the due date. Earlier than 30 weeks the stomach might not be as round and it might not show properly in the photos.
The perfect time for maternity photos is somewhere between 26 and 34 weeks (7 or 8 months). You want your bump to be fully showing, nice and round, but you don't want to be so close to your due date that you are uncomfortable, or risk delivering before you make it to your sesson!
Is 21 weeks too early for maternity photos? ›First, you'll want the pregnant belly to be the main focus. So, you'll want to wait until it has a nice round shape. Typically, the bump starts to show between 16 to 20 weeks into the pregnancy. To give it some time to grow, you should wait at least until you have 26 or 28 weeks.
What does 30 weeks pregnant look like? ›At 30 weeks pregnant your baby is about the size of a head of cabbage. It weighs around 3 pounds (1.36 kg). Although your belly might make you feel like you have watermelon inside, the baby's height is around 15 inches (38 cm). As the baby grows, the amount of amniotic fluid will be reduced.
Is 33 weeks too early for maternity pictures? ›Most expecting parents want to plan on having their photoshoot between 30-32 weeks. This will allow you to have a defined bump without reaching that too 'miserable to move' stage. If you are showing sooner or this isn't your first then scheduling closer to 30 weeks is a good idea.
Is 29 weeks too early for maternity photos? ›
I photograph maternity sessions anywhere from 28-35ish weeks pregnant (30 weeks max for multiples). This is the sweet spot when mamas have a cute bump, but you're not dealing with swelling hands and feet yet.
Is 2 months too late for newborn photos? ›So the answer is: No. It's not too late. Its never too late to photograph your baby. You will never regret having photos of your baby from when she 1 month old, 2 months old, or 3 months old!
What month is best for baby bump photoshoot? ›In most cases this is sometime in your 7th or 8th month of pregnancy or between 28-34 weeks. During this time, you will have a fairly sizeable bump and your baby will not have dropped down too far yet. The start of your third trimester is the perfect time for a maternity photoshoot.
How many weeks is 6 months pregnant? ›What Happens at 6 Months of Pregnancy? 24 Weeks Pregnant.
How many pounds is a 30 week baby? ›Week 30: Baby's hair grows
By now your baby might be more than 10 1/2 inches (270 millimeters) long from crown to rump and weigh nearly 3 pounds (1,300 grams).
You should avoid alcohol use and smoking during pregnancy to reduce the risk of issues like miscarriage, early delivery, and fetal alcohol syndrome. You should also steer clear of unpasteurized dairy products and raw or undercooked meat, eggs, poultry, and fish to prevent foodborne illness.