How to Prepare for Your Maternity Session: Capture the Glow, the Love, and the Moment

Mamas-to-be, this is your moment. Your maternity session isn’t just about capturing that gorgeous baby bump—it’s about celebrating the incredible journey you’re on. Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, this chapter in your life deserves to be documented with love, light, and a touch of magic.

As a maternity photographer, my goal is to make you feel comfortable, confident, and absolutely radiant. I’ll guide you through every step, from choosing the perfect location to styling your wardrobe. And yes, I even have a client closet filled with stunning dresses so you don’t have to stress about finding the perfect outfit! Just tell me your size and color preference, and your dress will be ready for your session.

Oh, and did I mention? Bring the pets too! Whether it’s your loyal dog, your sweet cat, or even your beloved horse—they are part of your family’s story! ❤️

So, let’s dive into how to prepare for your maternity session and make it an experience to cherish forever.

🕒 1. Choose the Right Time for Your Maternity Photos

Timing is everything when it comes to maternity photography. You want that perfect balance where your bump is beautifully round, but you still feel comfortable moving around and posing.

⏳ The sweet spot? Between 28-34 weeks.

At this stage, your belly is beautifully prominent, and you still have the energy to enjoy the session. Waiting too long (past 35+ weeks) could mean swollen feet, exhaustion, and feeling uncomfortable in certain poses.

Maternity Photography Session Historic Greenbrier FarmsFarm Pony Maternity Photography Session in Chesapeake, Virginia by When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs by Denise Powers

👗 2. Pick the Perfect Outfit (We Have Gorgeous Dresses Ready for You!)

What you wear can make or break the way you feel in your photos. The goal? Comfort + Confidence + Timeless Style.

🎀 GOOD NEWS! You don’t have to shop for the perfect dress—I have a client closet filled with stunning maternity gowns in a variety of styles. All you have to do is let me know your size and color preference, and I’ll have your dress ready for your session.

💖 Prefer to purchase your own? Check Out This Beauty!

🚫 Avoid Tight Clothes Before the Session – Skip super-tight leggings or bras right before your shoot to prevent skin marks from showing in your pictures.

Beach Maternity Photography SessionBeautiful Beach Maternity Session, Virginia Beach, Virginia by When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs by Denise Powers

🐾 3. Include Meaningful Props (and YES, Bring Your Pets!)

One of my favorite ways to make maternity sessions unique is by adding sentimental props and including your pets!

📸 Ideas for Meaningful Props:
✔ Your baby’s ultrasound photo
✔ Tiny baby shoes or a onesie (you can order a custom onesie from us with your session)
✔ A name sign or a letterboard with your due date
✔ A special piece of jewelry or a family heirloom

🐶 Pets Make the Best Photobombs:
If your dog is your first baby (because let's be honest, they are!), let’s include them in your session! They bring joy, playfulness, and unconditional love into your images.

📌 Pro Pet Tip: Bring a stylish collar or bandana! (Check out this adorable pet bandana or you can order a personalized bandana from us).

Third Trimester MaternityCustomized Onesies & Props for your Maternity Session

❤️ 4. Bring Your Partner, Kids, and Fur Babies (This is Their Moment Too!)

Pregnancy isn’t just about you—it’s about the growing love and connection in your family. Including your partner, older children, or even your fur babies in the session adds emotional, storytelling moments to your gallery.

💡 Pose Ideas for Partner, Kids & Pets:

• A sweet forehead kiss from your partner
• Older siblings hugging or talking to your bump
• Holding hands with your partner while gazing at your belly
• Silhouette shots at sunset (magical!)
• Your pup snuggling next to your belly for that “baby guard dog” moment

💛 Bonus Tip: Have your kids wear neutral colors and simple outfits so they don’t steal the show (but let’s be real, they probably will anyway!).

💧 5. Hydrate & Pamper Yourself (Because You Deserve It!)

Glowing skin isn’t just about great lighting—it starts with hydration and self-care!

💦 The Hydration Rule – Start drinking extra water a few days before your session to keep your skin plump and fresh.

💄 Pamper Yourself – Whether it’s a mini spa day, a relaxing bath, or getting your hair and makeup done, a little self-care goes a long way in making you feel confident and camera-ready. (Need a quick glow-up? Try this hydrating facial mist for a dewy, fresh look!)

✨ Bonus Idea: If you want to go all out, let’s book a professional hair & makeup artist for your session—because you deserve to feel like a queen!

📋 Bonus Tip: We’re Here to Help With Every Detail!

Not sure what colors work best? Need help deciding on a location? Wondering if you should add professional makeup? That’s why I’m here!

💌 Fill out your client questionnaire, and I’ll help you with:
✅ Choosing the best color palette for your session
✅ Deciding if a hair & makeup artist is right for you
✅ Finding the perfect location that fits your vision
✅ Picking the perfect dress from my client closet or guiding you to the best style for you
✅ Coordinating with your partner, kids, and pets to ensure everyone shines

I’m not just your photographer—I’m your styled session coordinator! Let’s create magic together.

Purple Dress Nature Maternity Session Chesapeake ArboretumBeautiful Purple Forest Maternity Session in Chesapeake, Virginia by When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs by Denise Powers

✨ Let’s Make Your Maternity Session Unforgettable!

This is your time to shine, Mama! Your maternity session should be a joyful, relaxed, and memorable experience that leaves you feeling beautiful and celebrated.

Are you ready to book your session? Let’s chat and plan something perfectly YOU. 💕

📆 Book your maternity session today!

Denise Powers, Owner, When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs About Your Photographer: Denise Powers

I’m Denise Powers, the creative mind behind When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs. I specialize in capturing life’s most precious moments, from maternity and newborn sessions to pet photography, family portraits, and business branding.

With years of experience, I take pride in making every session stress-free, fun, and uniquely tailored to you. Whether you're celebrating a pregnancy, creating memories with your pets, or building your brand, I bring creativity, passion, and a personalized touch to every shoot.

Let's create something magical together. Ready to book? Contact me today! 💛

Affiliate Link Disclaimer

This blog contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. These links help support my photography business and allow me to continue creating content to serve you better. I only recommend products I trust and believe will enhance your maternity session experience! 💕