From my perspective as a maternity photographer, capturing the beauty of pregnancy is something that every soon-to-be mom should not miss. Whether it’s in a cozy home studio or out in nature, I believe each location offers its own charm, and wherever it will be, it can make stunning photos. Regardless of where you want to have your shoot, these maternity photography ideas I will share will help you create incredible memories that celebrate this remarkable chapter in your life.
Here are 15 Maternity Photography Ideas you can use or request from your photographer.
1- Nature Backdrop
A great approach to capturing the appeal of pregnancy photography is to make the most of natural backdrops.
Being in nature is definitely one of the best places to be and one of the best feelings as well. Beautiful and tranquil locations like forests, beaches, or gardens can evoke emotions that will come out in the photographs. I enjoy such details as the wind ruffling a dress or the sun filtering through branches because they add charm to your maternity photoshoot pics. Nature has a way of enhancing the beauty of this special event, so instead of shying away, let’s embrace it and make these photographs look classic and peaceful.
2- Silhouette Shots
Another idea I always suggest is having silhouette shots. These maternity shots are a beautiful way to highlight the unique shape of a baby bump.
Ideally, the best time to do this is during sunset or sunrise when the light is soft and golden. I highly recommend hiring a professional photographer to capture this moment, but if you wish to do something DIY, here’s a tip that can help you. Look for a spot against the light where you can strike a comfortable yet adorable post. That way, the light can highlight timeless and creative angles of your pregnancy shoot. And the beauty of this shot lies in simplicity and not adding too much extra detail.
3- Ultrasound Photo
Including your ultrasound photo in your maternity pictures adds a personal and heartwarming touch. This is one of my most loved maternity photo ideas. The charming moment of the expecting mother gently holding or gazing at that first glimpse of her little one is something that my lens should not miss.
Aside from the wonderful photograph, this will also remind you of how beautiful your journey is with the little one inside your tummy. You may opt to choose a close-up shot or have it in a larger scene. The sweet details of this type of maternity shoot will surely make you appreciate your pregnancy as you look back in the future.
4- Baby Shoes
If you’re not comfortable having a photoshoot without some props, I suggest you go with a pair of baby shoes. This is one of the go-to Maternity Photography Ideas at home that many soon-to-be moms love to do.
There is something sweet and cute about adding this pair of tiny shoes to your maternity photos. I believe it somehow represents the little one who is about to join your family. You can simply hold the shoes in front of your tummy or place them on your bump. Needless to say, it was a heartwarming shoot that will add excitement as you anticipate the coming of your little one,
5- Partner Hug
Feeling shy to have a photoshoot on your own? Grab your partner and include him in your maternity photography sessions. Not only will it add confidence, but it will also create a beautiful layer of love and connection.
One of my favourite poses that I ask my clients to do is the partner hug. The dad wraps his arms underneath the bump, creating an image of him cradling the little one inside. This shoot is simple yet offers romantic, sincere, and authentic photos you will love to hang in your bedroom.
6- Family Involvement
Another way to boost your confidence during the maternity photoshoot is by involving your other kids. Their presence brings a heartwarming scene of excitement for the new addition to their happy family.
For me, this is one of the most crazy yet fun maternity photography ideas I have captured. Feel free to interact casually as a family during your shoot, or you can ask your other kids to hug your baby bump. In addition, this is also a great time to make everyone feel included and appreciated as you celebrate another bundle of joy popping up very soon.
7- Flower Crowns
Flower crowns are such beautiful and whimsical props you can add to your maternity session. I like how they add a soft and feminine touch, bringing a bit of nature into the photos. You can go for a single-coloured flower crown or a combination of colourful flowers.
The key here is to choose something that matches your attire and makes you feel comfortable. Imagine yourself as a glowing goddess admiring the beauty inside your womb. Take these shoots in your garden or in a field where the crown can complement the backdrop.
8- Seasonal Theme
Seasonal themes are fantastic Maternity Photography Ideas that can make your album more meaningful and unique. I typically recommend using the current season as your theme, as it will offer convenience and less hassle on your end. However, if you wish to use other seasonal themes, you’ll need more props and materials.
This photoshoot relies mainly on colours, textures, and elements of the season to craft a stunning output.
Winter Season: Use soft blankets, a snowy backdrop, and adorable twinkling lights.
Fall Season: Add some golden leaves, pumpkins, and other warm colored-props.
Summer Season: Wear bright colours, shades, and hats.
Spring Season: Have some fresh blooms and pastel-coloured accessories.
Each season adds its own charm and will surely help you tell the story of your pregnancy journey.
9- Black and White
This style is somehow relevant to a silhouette photoshoot as it only offers a touch of black and white colours. But this one can be more manageable since it doesn’t require a certain time and location. The beauty of this photoshoot lies in highlighting purely the emotions, shapes, and textures of your bump.
The simplicity of black-and-white showcases the smallest detail of your hand resting on your baby bump while your partner glances at your beauty. These types of shoots offer elegance, classics, and stunning works of art.
10- Casual Home shoots
Now, let’s talk about some pregnancy photoshoot ideas at home. I know that most pregnant ladies have a hard time travelling or going outdoors. But that should not be a hindrance in having your maternity shoot. This is also an excellent opportunity to capture some genuine moments in a relaxed and natural environment.
Feel free to strike a pose in your favorite spot on the couch, the soon-to-be nursery of your little one, or simply in your bed. Take note that these shoots are all about highlighting your everyday moments. No silly poses, no additional props, and definitely no hassle to go out.
11- Milk Bath Photography
If you want to take your maternity shoot to the next level, milk bath photography might be a great choice. This type of shoot offers elegance and serenity to your photos. Additionally, it gives a peaceful, unique, and nurturing image of your pregnancy journey.
I like the idea of creamy water creating a soft and ethereal backdrop that compliments the maternity beauty of your baby bump. You may opt to add some fresh flower petals, greeneries, or other relevant detailed props. The biggest advantage of milk bath photography is it gives you time to pamper and relax during this challenging season.
12- Sport Photography
Missing the fun of sports activity in your pregnancy season? Why not incorporate sport-themed photography in your maternity sessions? This type is one of the most complicated yet most fulfilling Maternity Photography Ideas, especially if you love sports activities. This is a great time to showcase your strength, wit, and personality as an athletic mom-to-be.
You can add some sports materials that you love to use, such as a yoga mat, basketball, gym ball, baseball bat, or tennis racket. Also don’t forget to wear your favourite sports gear. As fun, as it is, still remember that your safety and that of your little one are the topmost priority. Avoid excessive and extreme poses that could tire you or put you at risk.
13- Flowing gowns
If you want to create classic and stunning vibes on your maternity shoots, using flowing gowns will help you accomplish that goal. I am fascinated with elegant dresses moving as the wind blows. They resemble the gratefulness, beauty, and drama of your pregnancy journey.
This is best shot in outdoor areas where breeze and natural background can compliment the dress. However, you can also bring this indoors in a more intimate and soft fashion. Moreover, these flowing gowns accentuate the baby bump in such a flattering manner. If this doesn’t highlight your pregnancy beauty, I’m not sure what else will.
14- Hands on Belly
I always encourage my clients to include hands on belly shots in their album since it showcases a powerful connection between them and their little ones. This type of shoot is simple as you only need to gently cradle your baby bump, offering a tender and intimate moment that you can cherish forever.
You can also choose whether you want a close-up shot that only focuses on your hands and bumps or a broader scale that includes your natural facial expression. It’s a lovely addition to your maternity album since this style captures that precious moment when you first begin to embrace the new life you’re nurturing within.
15- Beach Photography
Who doesn’t want a beach photoshoot? Imagine that ray of sunshine touching your delicate skin as the small waves of the ocean run into your feet. All while wearing your stunning maternity beach-themed attire. Perfect, right? Beach photography is one of the most magical Maternity Photography Ideas.
The beach itself already offers a stunning backdrop, but you can enhance it by adding elegant props such as maternity dresses, colourful hats, umbrellas, or other accessories. You can also strike a pose in spots where sails are visible. One more tip, though, is to enjoy the serene beauty of the sea to capture more genuine emotion in your face.
Celebrating the Journey with these Beautiful Maternity Photography Ideas
Maternity photography is a remarkable approach to honour the great nine months of your motherhood journey. Expecting mothers are photographed in a way that captures joyful emotions, excitement, and so much love between a mother and the child inside her womb. Those 15 pregnancy photography ideas I mentioned are styles you can refer to so you can prepare before your photoshoot.
However, if you want to have a hassle-free and more fun maternity photo shoot, I recommend hiring a professional photographer. They will help you with your poses in a natural, calm, and caring way. Their years of experience will also complete your desired output and style.
Maternity is a fantastic journey in your life, and documenting this season through maternity photography is an incredible way to portray love, enhance the bonds, immortalize the chapter, and share hope with loving memories.
Samantha, the visionary behind Little One Photography, is a passionate photographer with a special gift for capturing the essence of newborns and families. As an awarded newborn photographer, she has honed her craft to create timeless, emotive portraits that families cherish for generations. Samantha’s warm personality and patient approach put even the tiniest clients at ease, allowing her to capture genuine moments of connection and love.
