I’ll be honest with you – I personally wasn’t someone who prioritized having maternity photos taken. For my last pregnancy with my daughter (who was due in March but arrived in February), the cold, dreary weather led me to skip professional maternity photos. Looking back now, I really regret not having them done, especially a lifestyle session at home that would have worked perfectly with the winter season and better suited my style. I have a few casual photos here and there, but nothing that truly captures that special time before my children arrived. Don’t make the same mistake I did!
Let me walk you through my top 10 Tips to Prepare for Your Maternity Photoshoot so you can have the beautiful photos I wish I had.
Table of Contents
1. Schedule Your Maternity Photo Session at the Right Time
The ideal time for your maternity photo session is typically between 28-34 weeks. At this stage, you’ll have a beautiful, visible bump, but you’ll still be comfortable enough to move around and enjoy your session. According to a recent survey, over 80% of expecting mothers prefer scheduling their maternity photos during this sweet spot in their pregnancy journey.
Special Timing Considerations:
- Multiple Babies: If you’re expecting twins or triplets, consider scheduling your session a bit earlier, around 24-28 weeks, as you may grow more quickly.
- High-Risk Pregnancies: For high-risk pregnancies, consult with your doctor about the best timing and consider booking a more flexible session date.
Remember that each body and pregnancy is different. Some moms don’t “show” as much until later, while others have a noticeable bump earlier. The most important thing is to choose a time when you feel good and have enough energy to enjoy your session.
2. Choose the Perfect Location and Time of Day
I love outdoor maternity sessions in Charlottesville and Richmond scheduled 1-2 hours before sunset when the temperature is cooling off and the light is magical. However, I’ve recently fallen in love with indoor lifestyle maternity sessions too! These sessions are more casual, not weather-dependent, and pair beautifully with lifestyle newborn photos later on.
Some clients even opt to do both – an outdoor session with more formal attire and an indoor lifestyle session that captures the nursery preparation and your home environment. This combination provides wonderful variety and ensures you have these memories preserved no matter what Virginia weather decides to do!
Popular Virginia Locations for Outdoor Maternity Sessions:
- Carter Mountain or Monticello for stunning mountain views
- Local gardens and parks with beautiful landscaping
- Downtown Charlottesville or Richmond for urban backdrops
- University of Virginia grounds for classic architecture
3. Dress Comfortably (This Is Non-Negotiable!)
My number one piece of advice that I give to every maternity client: dress comfortably! When you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, your confidence shines through in your photos. The opposite is also true – if you’re uncomfortable, that discomfort will be visible in your expressions and posture.
When selecting your outfit, avoid highlighting areas of your body you’re not confident about. If you don’t love your arms, choose something with sleeves. Pregnancy amplifies all the changes happening to your body, so now is not the time to force yourself into a bodycon dress and stilettos if that doesn’t make you feel good.
For outdoor sessions, wear comfortable shoes or bring a pair to wear between shooting locations. You can always change into dressier shoes just for the photos!
4. What Exactly to Wear for a Maternity Photoshoot
The star of your maternity session is your beautiful bump, so choose clothing that accentuates it! Some flattering options include:
- Fitted dresses that hug your bump
- Maxi dresses with empire waistlines
- Wrap dresses that emphasize your shape
- Fitted tops paired with skirts or pants
For a more dramatic look, consider a flowy dress or skirt that can be used in movement shots. These create stunning, romantic images that celebrate your pregnancy.
Color Recommendations:
- Soft neutrals (white, cream, beige) for a timeless look
- Pastel blues and pinks for a gentle, romantic feel
- Rich jewel tones like emerald or burgundy for dramatic portraits
- Black for classic, elegant silhouettes that highlight your bump
View More Maternity Outfit Ideas on our Pinterest Board
5. Consider Professional Hair and Makeup
If it’s within your budget, professional hair and makeup can be a wonderful treat that helps you feel extra special for your session. Not only will you look polished in your photos, but you’ll also enjoy being pampered during this special time.
If you prefer to do your own hair and makeup, keep it natural and slightly more defined than your everyday look. Pregnancy often brings a natural glow, so enhance that with light, fresh makeup.
6. Coordinate with Partners and Siblings
If your partner or other children will be joining the session, coordinate their outfits with yours without being too matchy-matchy. Choose complementary colors and similar levels of formality.
For partners, neutral tones like soft blues, grays, whites, or tans often photograph beautifully and don’t distract from the mom-to-be. For siblings, simple outfits without loud patterns or characters work best.
7. Prepare Your Skin and Body for Maternity Portraits
In the week leading up to your session:
- Stay hydrated
- Moisturize daily
- Get plenty of rest
- Consider scheduling a manicure (your hands will be featured prominently as they rest on your belly)
Don’t schedule any major beauty treatments like new facials or tanning right before your session in case your skin reacts negatively. Stick with your regular routine but perhaps with a little extra TLC.
8. Must-Have Items to Bring to Your Maternity Session
Pack a small bag with:
- Water and light snacks
- Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
- Touch-up makeup
- Hair ties or clips
- Any props you want to include (ultrasound images, baby shoes, etc.)
- A second outfit option if desired
Being prepared with these comfort items allows you to focus on enjoying your session rather than feeling uncomfortable.
9. Communicate with Your Maternity Photographer
Let me know if you have any concerns, specific shots you’d like to capture, or areas of your body you’d prefer to minimize. As your Charlottesville maternity photographer, I want you to love your photos, and clear communication helps ensure we’re on the same page.
Don’t hesitate to tell me if you need a break during the session or if a pose feels uncomfortable. Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and I’ll always work with you to find poses that feel good for your body.
Common Concerns I Can Help With:
- Weather backup plans
- Finding flattering angles and lighting
- Feeling photogenic and natural in front of the camera
- Partner reluctance or nervousness
10. Embrace This Unique Chapter
Remember that pregnancy is a fleeting, magical time that passes all too quickly. These photos aren’t just about looking beautiful (though you absolutely will!); they’re about documenting an incredible chapter in your life story.
Try to relax and enjoy the experience rather than focusing on looking “perfect” in every shot. The most beautiful maternity photos capture not just your physical appearance but the anticipation, love, and connection you feel during this special time.
Your Future Self Will Thank You
As someone who regrets not having professional maternity photos taken, trust me when I say you won’t regret making the investment to capture this fleeting time. Whether you choose an outdoor sunset session or a cozy lifestyle session at home, these images will become treasured keepsakes for both you and your child.
Ready to book your maternity session? Contact me today to reserve your spot! I only take 2-4 sessions per month to ensure each client receives a personalized experience, so don’t wait until the last minute to secure your due date.
If you liked this we think you’ll love:
Where to Find Stylish Maternity Clothes in Richmond VA
What to Wear for Beach Maternity Photos
5 Amazing Options for a Birth Center in Charlottesville, VA!
Melissa Arlena is an award winning lifestyle newborn photographer in Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia who has earned her Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in maternity, newborn and family photography. Her natural and simple work has been featured in magazines and online blogs worldwide. She has been named Best Maternity and Newborn Photographer in Richmond and Charlottesville, VA in 2024.
