How to Prepare for Your Maternity Photoshoot – 7 Tips for a Stress-Free Experience
Because You Deserve to Celebrate This Season—Without the Stress
Let’s be honest—pregnancy is exhausting.
You’re growing a whole-ass human, your body is working overtime, and some days, just brushing your teeth feels like a win. So if even the thought of planning a maternity photoshoot feels like one more thing on an already full plate, I got you.
Here’s the thing: you don’t have to do this perfectly. You don’t need to feel glamorous, have the “right” outfit, or force energy you don’t have. The best maternity sessions are about capturing the love, anticipation, and beauty of this season—without adding stress to your life.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, this guide is for you.
Here are 7 simple ways to prepare for your maternity session and make it an easy, enjoyable experience.
1. Choose a Time That Feels Right for You
Most maternity sessions happen between 30-34 weeks when your bump is bumpin’, but you’re hopefully not too uncomfortable. But there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline!
Feeling great? You can schedule earlier, later, whenever you want!
Exhausted & uncomfortable as your due date approaches? A shorter, more relaxed session might be best, probably sooner than later.
Deciding last minute? It’s never too late—we’ll make it work.
The goal is to capture you when you feel your best, and when it feels the least stressful, whatever that looks like for you.
2. Choose an Outfit That Makes You Feel Great
You do not have to squeeze into a fancy gown or buy something new. The best outfits make you feel comfortable and confident.
✨ A few ideas:
Your birthday suit - In my opinion, less is more is the vibe for photos. Your skin, glowing and growing, is the most beautiful thing. You could choose to wear simple underwear or a bra, or we could get creative with sheets, laundry on the line, shadows, etc.
Cozy knits and loungewear: Wear sweaters, cardigans, an oversized button-down, or a simple bralette with open jeans for an intimate, relaxed vibe. Texture is our friend.
Sentimental pieces – A meaningful necklace, or your partner’s shirt can add a personal touch.
Fitted dresses – If you love showing off your bump, go for a stretchy, body-hugging dress.
Full glam - If you love getting glammed up then I am here for that too! The point is, wear what you feel good in!
The most important thing? You should feel comfortable and confident. If you feel good, it will shine through in your photos.
3. Keep Hair & Makeup Simple (or Skip It Altogether!)
You don’t need to book a glam squad—unless you want to. Some people love the extra confidence boost of pro hair and makeup, and an excuse to be pampered for a day, but a natural look is just as stunning. I personally love a more come-as-you-are approach for an intimate and relaxed vibe.
💡 Easy, low-maintenance ideas:
Loose waves or a simple ponytail.
A little mascara and lip color for a fresh, glowy look.
Hydrate your skin—pregnancy glow is real, and dewy skin photographs beautifully!
Want to skip makeup entirely? Do it. You’re gorgeous just as you are.
4. Bring Water & Snacks (Because Pregnancy Hunger Is Real)
Sessions can last anywhere from 1-2 hours, and staying hydrated is key—especially if we’re shooting outdoors.
Pack:
✔ A bottle of water
✔ A quick snack (fruit, granola bar, nuts, or your favorite treat)
✔ Lip balm (because chapped lips sneak up fast!)
If you need a break during your session, take it. There’s no rush—we’ll go at your pace.
5. Lean on Your Partner (or Bring a Support Person!)
If being in front of the camera makes you nervous, having someone there can help.
Your partner can join you for sweet, natural moments together.
Older kids can be included to make the session extra special (plus, something to do with your hands!).
A friend, family member, or doula can offer moral support (or hold your water bottle!).
Pregnancy is not a solo journey, and neither is your session.
6. Trust Your Photographer (I’ve Got You!)
You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to “look perfect.” You don’t even need to feel 100% that day. My job is to guide you, make you feel comfortable, and capture the real, beautiful, powerful you.
Some of the best photos come from in-between moments:
A soft laugh when you feel your baby kick.
The way you instinctively cradle your belly.
The quiet excitement in your eyes.
The little in-between moments where you simply exist in the magic of this season.
Trust me—you’re doing better than you think.
7. Remember Why You’re Doing This
It’s easy to put maternity photos on the back burner when you’re tired, uncomfortable, or overwhelmed. But one day, these photos will be everything.
They’ll remind you of:
💛 The strength it took to grow this life.
💛 The love that surrounded your baby before they were even born.
💛 The version of you who existed in this powerful, fleeting season.
Someday, your child will see these images and know how deeply they were loved—before you even held them in your arms.
Ready to Book? Let’s Make It Easy.
Let's chat if you’re considering a maternity session but aren’t sure what feels right. I promise we’ll make this as stress-free and comfortable as possible.
💌 Reach out, and let’s create something beautiful together.
