The fine art of maternity photography.

Capture the magic of pregnancy.

Documenting pregnancy offers a unique opportunity to capture a pivotal moment in a family’s story. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring photographer, mastering maternity photography can add a deeply rewarding dimension to your portfolio. Here’s how you can start capturing these magical moments with confidence and creativity.

Timing your photo session.

The golden window for maternity photoshoots is typically between 28 and 35 weeks. During this period, the baby bump is distinct and photogenic, yet most mums-to-be are still comfortable enough for a session. Timing these shoots just right not only ensures comfort but also gives families precious images in time for baby shower celebrations or to decorate the nursery.

Preparing for the photoshoot.

Communication is key.

Effective communication sets the stage for a successful photoshoot. “It’s really important from the get-go to provide the client with all the information. Get on the phone and just have a quick chat beforehand, so that when she comes into the studio you’re already a little acquainted,” says maternity photographer Natalie Buck. A pre-shoot conversation can alleviate any anxieties and help personalise the session to reflect the mother’s personality and preferences.

Choosing the perfect spot.

When deciding on a location, consider the unique advantages of both studio and natural settings. Outdoor shoots can utilise Australia’s stunning landscapes—from the serene beaches to rustic bush settings, offering a backdrop of natural beauty and golden hour lighting that complements the theme of new life. Studios, on the other hand, offer controlled environments where lighting and privacy are managed, making them ideal for more intimate or styled shoots.

Styling the shoot: Wardrobe and makeup.

Sorting out the wardrobe for a maternity shoot can really set the stage for the photos. Have a yarn with your client about what they envision wearing. If you're deep into maternity photography, consider keeping a collection of maternity dresses on hand—it simplifies things immensely. "It’s easier to just carry maternity dresses in every size for my clients," shares Jacqueline Vega, who keeps her studio stocked for such occasions. "The dresses are so expensive and you’re only going to use them for a month or two."

Makeup is just as crucial. Chat with your client about the look they're aiming for. If they’re applying their own makeup, recommend doing a trial run before the shoot day. Offer to send over some tutorial links or suggest a makeup artist skilled in creating a natural, photogenic appearance.

Also, think about the whole family if they're joining in on the maternity photoshoot pics. Coordinate their outfits and any props like ultrasound printouts or little booties to ensure everything looks spot on in the photos.

Visualising your shots.

Being prepared can make all the difference in lifestyle photography, and maternity shoots are no exception. If you're new to this, spend some time browsing example photos online to get a feel for different styles, pose, and composition. Don’t copy others, but take inspiration wherever you happen to find it.

Craft a detailed shot list that reflects this inspiration and your discussions with the client. This isn’t just about ticking off boxes—it’s about crafting a narrative for the session that captures all the essential moments while leaving room for some unplanned magic. This approach keeps the shoot flowing smoothly and ensures you don’t miss any opportunities to capture those once-in-a-lifetime shots.

Tips for the maternity photoshoot.

Pack smartly.

In addition to your trusty camera gear, bring along essentials that cater specifically to maternity shoots. Jacqueline Vega makes sure to have wardrobe options like pasties and double-sided tape handy, which are perfect for quick fixes and ensuring the clothing fits just right to highlight the baby bump beautifully.

Comfort is key.

The third trimester can be tough, and discomfort can really show in photos. Your main goal should be to create a space where the mum-to-be feels completely at ease. Natalie Buck suggests putting on some soothing music and doing everything possible to foster a calm atmosphere. These small touches can transform the shoot into a delightful experience rather than a stressful one.

Direction and guidance.

Clear instructions can make all the difference. Guide your client on how to pose—where to place their arms, how to tilt their head, when to open or close their eyes. Natalie Buck emphasises, “Direct them exactly where they need to put their arm, what they need to do with their head, close their eyes, look down, hold their chin out. Otherwise, they’re just standing there and you’re just taking photographs and they’re feeling weird.” This approach helps clients feel more involved and confident.

Attention to detail.

Capture a variety of shots—from wide angles that include the family to close-ups that focus on the bump. Consider different angles and remember that a slightly elevated camera angle often flatters the most. Adjust the subject’s position, like turning them at a 45-degree angle to the camera, to best showcase the bump. Pay attention to every detail, from the arrangement of hands to the flow of the dress, ensuring everything looks perfect in each frame.

Regularly check camera settings.

Keep a close eye on your camera settings throughout the session, especially if you’re shooting in changing light conditions like a sunset. Continuously check your histograms and adjust settings as needed to avoid ending up with unusable images. Natalie Buck stresses the importance of this habit: “Get into the habit of making sure that you’re continuously taking a photo, checking, taking a photo and checking again.”