How to Plan a Maternity Photoshoot

Q: When is the best time to take maternity photos?

Ideally, between 28 and 36 weeks —when your bump is beautifully round but you're still (hopefully!) comfortable. That said, I’ve photographed glowing mamas at 26 weeks and 39. There’s no “too late”—just what feels right for you.

Q: What are your favourite maternity photoshoot poses?

Great question! I’m all about the unposed poses—walking hand-in-hand, belly cuddles, stolen kisses, real laughs. I’ll suggest natural movement and gentle actions so you never feel awkward or staged.

That feels like You

maternity pictures with floral dress with a pregnant women outdoors at a photo session with Emerald Photo UK

Hey there, mama-to-be!

Growing a tiny human is kind of a big deal. And if you’re here, you’re probably considering a maternity photoshoot to remember this wild, beautiful, and slightly chaotic chapter. Good news—you’re in the right place.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

When to take maternity pictures (without waiting too long)
What to wear (and what not to stress about)
Easy maternity photoshoot ideas (including fun ones with your partner and kids)
How to make your maternity session feel like you—not like a Pinterest board gone stiff

By the end, you’ll feel totally ready to rock your bump and capture the kind of photos that make you go “Yep, that’s us.”smile every time you look back at them. Let’s dive in!

Because Pregnancy Deserves to Be Remembered

Without the awkward poses

Here’s the thing—maternity photo shoots often get a bad rep. Over-posed, too-perfect, flower crowns galore. But guess what? Yours doesn’t have to be like that.

You don’t need to stand like a statue in a field of daisies (unless you want to, of course 🌼). This is about capturing your story—whatever that looks like:

Snuggling up on the sofa with your partner during an indoor simple maternity photoshoot
Chasing your toddler in a wildflower field for a candid maternity family photoshoot
Laughing together during a breezy beach maternity photoshoot

The best maternity shoots feel more like hanging out—with a camera clicking quietly in the background. No pressure. Just presence.

A touching black and white portrait of a pregnant mother with her daughter in a serene outdoor setting at a maternity photoshoot

What to Expect: From Baby Bump Butterflies to Frame-Worthy Shots

Wondering what actually happens during a maternity shoot? Here’s how I usually guide my clients from nervous to glowing:

When to book: Around 28–36 weeks is the sweet spot. You’ve got a beautiful bump, but you’re hopefully not too uncomfortable yet.

Location love: Whether it’s a cosy indoor maternity shoot, a dreamy outdoor maternity photoshoot, or something more styled like a studio pregnancy photoshoot, we’ll pick a spot that suits your vibe.

What to wear: Think comfort + confidence. Soft knits, flowing maternity photoshoot dresses, or even your partner’s oversized shirt. Yep, even that works. I’ve got wardrobe suggestions and maternity gowns photoshoot options ready for you.

Partners welcome: Yes, bring your love! Pregnancy pictures with husband (or wife/partner) are always heart-melting. I’ve got sweet and natural maternity photoshoot couple poses you’ll love.

Siblings too? Absolutely. The whole crew is invited for a maternity family photoshoot if that’s your jam.

pregnancy pictures with husband at a cosy indoor maternity shoot

Why a Maternity Photoshoot Isn’t Just About the Bump

(It’s about the whole beautiful mess)

Listen, your bump is magical—but so is the way your partner looks at you. Or how your little one talks to your belly. This shoot is about the whole moment, not just the maternity bump.

These are the kinds of maternity photoshoot pics you’ll treasure:

That quiet laugh before a kiss
The wild curls of your toddler bouncing in the breeze
The way you hold your belly without even noticing

Whether it’s a maternity couple photoshoot or a solo session, I’m here for the realness.

5 Little Tips for Feeling Confident in Front of the Camera

Let’s be real: being pregnant doesn’t always feel glamorous. And standing in front of a camera? Eek. But these tips will help:

Wear something that feels good. Forget tight and trendy—your maternity dress for photoshoot should move with you.
Prep but don’t overthink. Moisturise, do your hair, and then just show up as yourself.
Trust your photographer. (Hi! That’s me. I’ll guide you gently, promise.)
Move around. Natural movement = natural photos.
Breathe. Smile. Be present. You don’t need to perform—you’re already radiant.

A tender moment shared by a couple embracing maternity, highlighting love and anticipation.

How to Choose the Right Style for Your Maternity Photoshoot in Bristol

(Without losing your mind)

With so many options (hello, Pinterest), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So let’s simplify:

Casual at-home session: Perfect for those cosy, everyday vibes. Great for an indoor maternity photoshoot or even an indoor maternity shoot in winter.

Outdoor maternity photoshoot: Forest walks, meadows, beaches—it’s all about nature and movement.

Studio pregnancy photoshoot: Clean, minimal, and beautifully lit. If you’re into polished but still natural.

Creative twist: Want something artsy or themed? We can totally explore studio maternity photoshoot ideas or even bring props for a personal touch.

Choose what feels most you. And if you’re not sure, I’m happy to help you find clarity.

maternity photoshoot outdoors with beautiful natural environment

Let’s Make Some Magic

(Even if you feel tired, puffy, or a bit emotional)

Look, pregnancy can be… a lot. Some days you feel like a goddess. Other days, you’re mostly just hungry. That’s okay.

My job is to create a space where you can:

Let your guard down
Feel held and seen
Laugh, cry, twirl, cuddle, snack—whatever makes you feel alive

Even if you’re having one of those “I have nothing to wear” days or you’re not sure about being in front of the camera, we’ll create something honest and gorgeous together.

Wrapping It All Up

If you’ve made it this far—hi, you’re amazing! And I hope you’re feeling more confident about planning a maternity photoshoot that reflects your real life, your real love, and your real glow (even if it’s powered by snacks and naps).

From choosing your maternity photoshoot dress, to figuring out when to take maternity pictures, to planning a dreamy couple maternity photoshoot, you’ve got everything you need to start making magic.

Remember, this isn’t about copying what everyone else is doing. It’s about:

Finding maternity photoshoot ideas that make sense for your journey
Capturing your bump in a way that feels fun and genuine
Creating photos that tell a story you’ll want to revisit again and again

Do you have any questions?

Ideally, between 28 and 36 weeks—when your bump is beautifully round but you’re still (hopefully!) comfortable. That said, I’ve photographed glowing mamas at 26 weeks and 39. There’s no “too late”—just what feels right for you.

Think comfort meets confidence. Floaty maternity photoshoot dresses, soft knitwear, or even a simple maternity photoshoot in a white dress—if it feels like you, it’ll photograph beautifully. I also have a wardrobe of maternity gowns you’re welcome to use!

Absolutely! I love capturing maternity couple photoshoot moments and turning them into stories filled with emotion. Pregnancy pictures with your husband or a sweet maternity family photoshoot with your little ones always add that extra bit of magic.

Totally normal! You don’t have to do anything fancy. No pressure, no posing marathons—just gentle guidance, natural light, and plenty of encouragement. Even on days when you feel a little ‘meh,’ we’ll capture something beautifully you.

It depends on your vibe! If you’re dreaming of a cosy indoor maternity shoot, we can use your home or a styled space. For fresh air lovers, an outdoor maternity photoshoot in a forest, field, or beach works wonders. Still unsure? Let’s chat through ideas.

Great question! I’m all about the unposed poses—walking hand-in-hand, belly cuddles, stolen kisses, real laughs. I’ll suggest natural movement and gentle actions so you never feel awkward or staged.

Yes! If you love the polished look of a maternity photo studio, I offer minimal and elegant studio maternity photoshoot ideas that still feel relaxed and full of heart.

My maternity photoshoot price starts at £300, and includes planning help, a relaxed session, and a gorgeous gallery of edited images. Want all the dreamy details? Just get in touch and I’ll send everything over.

Oh yes. A maternity photoshoot in winter can be so magical—think snuggly layers, hot chocolate vibes, and snowy backdrops (when we get lucky!). We can even do it indoors with soft lighting and warm textures for extra coziness.

maternity family photoshoot outdoors with a floral maternity dress

READY TO

Plan a maternity photoshoot ?

Feeling inspired to skip the stiff poses and capture something a little more real, a little more you? That’s exactly what my maternity photoshoots are all about—heartfelt, relaxed, and filled with the kind of moments you’ll want to hold onto forever.

Whether your vision includes a cosy indoor session, an outdoor sunset stroll, or a fun maternity couple photoshoot with your partner and bump—I’m here to help you bring it to life with meaning and magic.

Let’s Chat

Still figuring out the details?

Take a wander through more blog posts, send me a message, or let’s jump on a call. Your maternity shoot should feel as natural and beautiful as the journey you’re on—and I can’t wait to help you make it unforgettable. 💚