10 First Week of School Photo Tips for Parents | Chesapeake Photographer
10 First Week of School Photo Tips Every Parent Can Use
The backpack is packed. The new outfits are hanging up and ready. The pencils are sharpened—and now it is time to capture those all-important first week of school pictures!
Whether you have a little one beginning preschool, a teenager starting high school, a senior celebrating their final first day, or a college student moving into a dorm, these photographs become part of your family’s story.
We treasure first day of school pictures while we are taking them, but we often do not realize just how meaningful they are until the tradition ends. One day, those photographs will remind you of the missing teeth, oversized backpacks, favorite outfits, nervous smiles, and personalities that changed from year to year.
The good news is that you do not need a professional camera to capture memorable back-to-school pictures. Your phone, a little natural light, and these simple first week of school photo tips can help you create images you will love for years.
1. Give Younger Children Something to Do
Young children may feel excited, nervous, wiggly—or all three at once—on the first day of school. Instead of asking them to stand perfectly still, have them sit on a step, lean against a wall, hold their backpack, or look through a favorite book.
Steps are also a great place to display a first day of school sign featuring details such as:
- Their name
- Grade
- Age
- Teacher’s name
- Favorite subject
- What they want to be when they grow up
Do not be afraid to move closer, either. Have your child sit down, place their hands under their chin, and look up at you for a sweet close-up.
PRO TIP: Never publicly display your child’s full name, age, birth date, school, teacher’s name, classroom, bus number, daily schedule, or specific location. These details can reveal more personal information than you may realize.
If you would like a more detailed sign for your family scrapbook, take two versions of the photograph: a private keepsake with the personal details and a simplified, safety-conscious version for social media.
2. Photograph the Entire Back-to-School Story
Your first day of school pictures do not have to be limited to one rushed photograph beside the front door.
Make the entire day part of the story. Photograph:
- The outfit laid out the night before
- The new shoes waiting by the door
- Lunch being packed
- Breakfast at the kitchen table
- Hair being styled
- Your child putting on their backpack
- Walking toward the bus or school
- The after-school reunion
- That exhausted end-of-the-day expression
Sometimes the photographs you will love most are the candid moments that happen between the posed ones.
Professional photographer tip: Stop asking children to say “cheese!” It can create a forced smile that does not look like your child. Instead, ask a silly question, tell a joke, mention something they love, or ask them to show you how excited—or dramatically unexcited—they are about school.
3. Find Soft, Even Light
Good lighting makes one of the biggest differences in any photograph.
If you are outside, look for open shade near your home, porch, tree, or covered walkway. If shade is unavailable, place the sun behind your child instead of asking them to face directly into it. This helps prevent squinting, harsh shadows, and the inevitable complaint: “The sun is in my eyes!”
Your child’s face may look a little darker with the sun behind them, so tap their face on your phone screen to adjust the focus and brightness.
Early morning light is often softer, but do not stress if your schedule is hectic. A shaded location can work beautifully at almost any time of day.
4. Use Window Light for Indoor Photographs
If rain, extreme heat, or a chaotic schedule keeps you indoors, position your child beside a window or open doorway.
Turn off overhead lights when possible. Household bulbs can create yellow or uneven color, while natural window light is generally softer and more flattering.
Have your child face the window or stand slightly turned toward it. Avoid placing the bright window directly behind them unless you intentionally want a silhouette.
5. Clean Your Phone’s Camera Lens
This may be the easiest—and most overlooked—smartphone photography tip.
Before taking your first day of school pictures, gently wipe your phone’s camera lens with a soft cloth. Fingerprints, makeup, dust, and pocket lint can make photographs look foggy or blurry.
It only takes a few seconds, but it can make a noticeable difference.
6. Capture More Than One Angle
Take a few steps forward, backward, and to each side. Photograph the traditional full-length portrait, but also capture the smaller details that tell the story.
Consider photographing:
- The backpack from behind
- Hands holding a lunchbox
- Brand-new shoes
- A close-up of your child’s expression
- Your child walking away
- Siblings holding hands
- A favorite school accessory
- The goodbye hug
For younger children, lower yourself to their eye level instead of taking every photograph while standing above them. This creates a more personal view of the moment.
For variety, take both vertical and horizontal photographs. Vertical images work well for social media and framed portraits, while horizontal images give you more room to include the environment.
7. Use Props That Add Meaning
Props can make first day of school photos more personal, but they do not need to be elaborate.
Try using:
- A personalized back-to-school sign
- A chalkboard
- Letter board
- Favorite book
- School pennant
- Class-year shirt
- Small stack of books
- Lunchbox
- Backpack
- School mascot item
For a fun long-term tradition, have your child hold the previous year’s first day photograph. Each year, the image within the image will show how much they have grown.
Another idea is to purchase an adult-sized graduation-year shirt and photograph your child wearing it every year as they slowly grow into it.
Important social media safety reminder: If you plan to share the photo publicly, avoid displaying your child’s teacher, school, bus number, daily schedule, classroom, or other specific location information. You can always take one detailed version for your private family album and a second, less-specific version for social media.
8. Include the Whole Family—Pets, Too!
First day of school photographs do not have to feature only the student.
Invite siblings, parents, grandparents, friends at the bus stop, or the family pet to join the fun. Take a traditional family photograph, but capture a few silly ones, too.
Parents can recreate their own first day of school expressions, siblings can celebrate getting the house back, and pets can pose beside the backpack—even if they would prefer that their favorite human stay home.
A quick family selfie may become one of your favorite photographs from the day.
9. Turn the First Day Into a First-Week Tradition
The first morning of school can be hectic. If everyone is rushing, tired, emotional, or simply not in the mood for photographs, do not force the entire experience into those few minutes.
Turn it into a first week of school project.
Photograph a different outfit each day or ask your child one question after school, such as:
- What was the best part of your day?
- Who did you sit with at lunch?
- What made you laugh?
- What are you excited to learn?
- What surprised you?
- What was the hardest part?
- What are you looking forward to tomorrow?
Do not forget an end-of-the-day photograph. There is something wonderfully real about comparing the perfectly prepared morning version with the tired, rumpled, and slightly disheveled after-school version!
10. Print the Photographs
Do not let these important memories disappear into your phone or fade into the endless scroll of social media.
Choose at least one first week of school photos to print every year. Display the images in matching frames, create an album, or place them together in a keepsake box.
By senior year, you will already have a meaningful collection to display at your child’s graduation party. You can also use the photographs to create a slideshow, memory book, or personalized graduation gift.
Digital images are convenient, but printed photographs become part of your family’s history.
Bonus Tip: Let Their Personality Lead
The best back-to-school photograph is not necessarily the one with the perfect pose, perfect outfit, or perfect smile. It is the one that feels like your child during that season of life.
If they are silly, let them be silly. If they are quiet, capture the thoughtful expression or reading their favorite book. If they are excited, photograph the celebration. If they are feeling nervous, document the reassuring hug.
Your goal is not perfection. Your goal is to preserve who they are right now.
What About High School Seniors and College Students?
Older students may insist they are “too old” for first week photographs—but these milestones deserve to be documented, too.
For high school seniors, capture that final first day and recreate an image from kindergarten or elementary school. Include a childhood photograph, graduation-year sign, school colors, letter jacket, sports equipment, instrument, or something that represents their plans after graduation.
College move-in day also provides plenty of meaningful photo opportunities:
- Packing the car
- Standing outside the dorm
- Decorating the new room
- Meeting a roommate
- The final family hug
- Parents driving away
- The new college student beginning their next adventure
And yes, empty nesters can participate! Grab the “Bye-Bye” sign, take a dramatic crying photo, or celebrate with a favorite beverage. Transitions can be emotional, so adding a little humor can make the moment easier.
Quick Answer: How Do You Take a Good First Day of School Picture?
To take a better first day of school picture, clean your phone’s lens, place your child in open shade or near a window, get down to their eye level, and use prompts instead of asking them to say “cheese.” Take a combination of posed portraits, candid moments, close-ups, and detail photographs. Most importantly, let your child’s real personality show.
Frequently Asked Questions About First Day of School Pictures
What is the best time to take first day of school pictures?
Take the photographs when you have the best combination of soft light and a cooperative child. This may be before school, after school, or even during the weekend before classes begin. The memory matters more than the exact date.
Where should I take back-to-school photographs at home?
A shaded porch, front steps, uncluttered wall, garden, tree-lined area, open doorway, or room with a large window can all work well. Choose a location with good light and as few background distractions as possible.
Should I use Portrait mode on my phone?
Portrait mode can help blur the background and draw attention to your child, especially for close-ups. Take a regular photograph as well, since Portrait mode can occasionally blur hair, backpacks, signs, or other important details.
How can I get a natural smile from my child?
Ask your child a silly question, have them tell you a joke, mention their favorite person or activity, or ask them to show you their most excited first day pose. Photograph the reaction instead of waiting only for a posed smile.
What information is safe to include on a first day of school sign?
For photographs shared publicly, avoid posting their school, teacher, classroom, bus number, daily schedule, or exact location.
What photographs should I take every school year?
Try to capture one full-length photo, one close-up, one photo with the backpack, one candid moment, one family or sibling photograph, and one end-of-the-day image. Repeating a few of the same poses every year makes it easier to see how your child has grown.
Professional Back-to-School and Senior Photography in Hampton Roads
Some school-year milestones deserve more than a quick phone photograph.
When Skies Are Grey Photography by Denise creates back-to-school portraits, homeschool portraits, cap-and-gown sessions, and personalized senior photography experiences for students throughout Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and the greater Hampton Roads area.
Every child and senior has a different personality, story, and vision. Your session can be tailored to capture who they are—not simply what they look like.
If you would like professional back-to-school pictures or a customized senior portrait experience, contact When Skies Are Grey Photography by Denise to begin planning your session.
As always, YOU Make me Happy When You Choose, When Skies Are Grey Photography by Denise to help preserve the people, personalities, and moments that matter most.
About Denise Powers
Denise Powers is the photographer, creative strategist, and storyteller behind When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs. Based in Chesapeake, Virginia, Denise serves families, pet parents, graduating seniors, professionals, and businesses throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, the greater Hampton Roads community, across the United States, and beyond.
Before building her photography and media business, Denise spent 18 years as a Pre-K teacher—an experience that still helps her connect with children, calm nervous parents, and create sessions where personalities can shine. She has been recognized as a Best of Chesapeake Photographer and photography studio and is known for creating meaningful imagery with plenty of patience, personality, and fun.
Connect with When Skies Are Grey Photography by Denise on Facebook.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase an item through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only share products or resources that I believe may be helpful to my readers. Any commissions earned help support When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs and allow me to continue creating helpful photography tips and resources.
What a Life-Changing Accident Taught Me About Professional Family Portraits
Why Haven't You Scheduled Your Happiness Session?
The last blog I published was August 28, 2025.
Just three days later, on August 31st, my life changed.
What started as a normal day turned into a horrific incident that landed me in the hospital fighting a serious infection. Part of September was spent in a hospital bed. The rest was spent under home health care with IV antibiotics being administered through a PICC line in an effort to save my hand from amputation.
There were months that I couldn't drive.
Days when I couldn't do simple personal care tasks without help and couldn’t shower without special equipment.
Days when I had to rely on others for things I had always done myself.
Literally, on Thanksgiving Day, my daughter removed the Turkey from the oven because I couldn't lift anything! (I promise it was a real turkey, not a baby turkey)
From October to December, physical therapy became my part-time job three days a week.
It was humbling.
It was frustrating.
It was scary.
And it changed me.
But you know what I didn't stop doing?
Capturing moments and memories.
Absolutely not.
In fact, that experience taught me even more about how important photographs truly are.
Not because they look pretty on social media.
Not because they get likes.
Not because they help us create content.
Because photographs are so much more than images.
They are art.
They are memories.
They are stories.
They are pieces of our lives that deserve to be seen every single day.
Growing up, one of my favorite things in the world was sending my 110 film, 35mm film, and Advantix film off to be developed.
If you're old enough to remember seeing the mail-order film out, you know exactly what I mean.
There was something magical about opening that envelope of prints.
The anticipation.
The excitement.
The laughter.
The surprises.
The memories.
You didn't swipe through them.
You held them.
You passed them around.
You put them in albums.
You relived the moments over and over again.
As a mom, I can tell you something else.
My girls are now 24 and 31 years old, and they still pull out their scrapbooks.
They still sit and flip through pages.
They still laugh.
They still point to people and places they remember.
And every single photograph unlocks something.
A smell.
A feeling.
A memory.
A story.
A moment they had forgotten.
Those printed photographs helped build their childhood memories.
Not the images buried on a hard drive.
Not the ones lost on an old phone.
The ones that were printed.
The ones they could touch.
The ones that became part of our home.
Today, I heard something that really stuck with me.
Laughter releases dopamine.
It lowers cortisol.
It literally helps us feel better.
And it made me think...
What if one of the easiest ways to bring more happiness into our lives is surrounding ourselves with the people, pets, and moments we love most?
Think about it.
Every time you walk past a portrait of your family.
Every time you see your baby's cake smash portrait.
Every time you look at your high school senior's smile before they left for college.
Every time you glance at that portrait of the dog who greeted you every day at the door.
You smile.
You remember.
You feel something.
Those aren't decorations.
They're happiness hanging on your walls.
They're reminders of what matters most.
They're daily doses of joy.
And maybe that's why I believe so strongly that photographs deserve to be printed.
Not next year.
Not someday.
Not when life slows down.
Because life has a way of reminding us just how quickly things can change.
Trust me—I know.
As I sit here realizing I am nearing the one-year mark of a day that changed my life forever, I find myself reflecting on everything that has happened since August 31, 2025.
This year hasn't been easy.
There have been challenges, frustrations, setbacks, and moments that tested me in ways I never expected.
But do you know what I love?
It's still been captured.
The laughter.
The milestones.
The family gatherings.
The pets being silly.
The holidays.
The ordinary moments that became extraordinary simply because they happened.
Even during one of the most difficult seasons of my life, memories continued to be made, and thankfully, many of them were preserved.
Because life doesn't stop when things get hard.
Children still grow.
Pets still age.
Families still gather.
And moments still happen.
As I approach this anniversary, I realize more than ever that there is never a "perfect" time to schedule family portraits.
There will always be a busy season, a project to finish, a few pounds to lose, a schedule to coordinate, or a reason to wait.
But life keeps moving forward.
So today, I want to encourage you to stop waiting.
Make the memories.
Capture the joy.
Document the laughter.
Print the images.
Put them on your walls.
Create something your children, grandchildren, and future generations can hold in their hands and cherish long after today has passed.
Because if this past year has taught me anything, it's that our moments matter.
And they deserve to be remembered.
So today, I have a question for you.
If family memories bring joy...
If laughter lowers stress...
If portraits make you smile every single day...
Why haven't you scheduled your happiness session?
The moments you're waiting to capture today will become the memories you'll treasure tomorrow.
And those memories deserve a place on your walls, not just on your phone.
I'd love to help you create them.
— Denise Powers
When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs
About the Author
Denise Powers is the creative force behind When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Design Studio based in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Specializing in pet photography, high school seniors, branding, headshots, business branding, marketing strategy, and custom digital designs, Denise blends storytelling with her passion for capturing unforgettable moments. Beyond the lens, she helps businesses grow through social media coaching and content creation.
An advocate for rescue animals, Denise dedicates time to photographing shelter pets and supporting animal welfare causes. She is also the author of Pit Bulls in Pajamas From A-Z , Tails of Rescue: Heartwarming Tails of Who Rescued Who, & LolliPUPS Sweet Moments of Enrichement celebrating the love and resilience of rescue animals.
Follow along for photography tips, business insights, and heartwarming pet stories!
When Denise is not behind the camera, you'll find her teaching marketing and workshops, helping small businesses grow their visibility, spending time with her family, enjoying the sun and wildlife in her own backyard, and creating memories with her pets.
Her mission is simple: to help people capture, preserve, and celebrate the moments that make life beautiful.
When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs Studio
450 S. Battlefield Blvd.
Chesapeake, VA 23322
[email protected]
757-335-1130
Ready to book your portrait photography session? Contact us HERE
Capturing memories from Coastal Virginia & beyond, traveling photographer.
Follow along for photography inspiration, marketing tips, local events, and reminders to celebrate the people and moments you love most.
As always, thank you for following along on this journey. Whether you've been here for one day or many years, I appreciate you being part of my story and allowing me to help preserve yours. YOU make me HAPPY When Skies Are Grey!
Some articles on this website may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
I only recommend products, services, and resources that I personally use, trust, or believe may provide value to my readers. Any compensation received helps support the time and resources required to create educational content, maintain this website, and continue serving our community and homeless animals. Thank you for supporting When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs Studio.
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WHAT I'M CAPTURING IN 2026
Families | Maternity | Pets | Milestone Birthdays & Cake Smashes | High School & College Seniors | Volume School, Dance, Cheer, & Sports | Headshots & Business Branding | Content Days | Community, Golf, & Pet Events
Fall is Coming: 5 Creative Photography Ideas to Capture Your Family This Season
🍂 Fall is Coming: 5 Creative Photography Ideas to Capture Your Family This Season
As summer winds down and the crisp air of fall begins to roll in, there’s no better time to update your family portraits. The warm colors, cozy outfits, and golden sunsets of autumn create the perfect backdrop for capturing memories you’ll cherish forever. If you’re thinking about scheduling a session, here are five creative ideas to make your fall portraits unforgettable in Coastal Virginia.
1. Pumpkin Patch Fun 🎃
Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch. These sessions are sweet and packed with seasonal charm. Kids love picking their favorite pumpkins, parents love the vibrant colors, and pets even get in on the fun. It’s the perfect way to combine family time with portraits that will light up your fall home decor.
2. Cozy Sweaters & Golden Leaves 🍁
Fall is all about texture—think chunky knits, scarves, boots, and layered neutrals. Imagine your family laughing together under a canopy of colorful leaves, snuggled close in cozy outfits. These timeless looks never go out of style and make your portraits feel warm and natural.
3. Back-to-School Portraits 📚
Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean stiff yearbook photos. Capture your kids’ personalities with creative portraits that reflect who they are right now—whether it’s their favorite book, sport, or a fun accessory that makes them smile. These sessions are a great way to mark the milestone of a new school year while creating art you’ll treasure.
4. Fall Beach Sessions 🌊🍂
Yes, the beach isn’t just for summer! Fall brings softer light, fewer crowds, and stunning skies that make for breathtaking backdrops. Pair that with earthy tones in your wardrobe, and you’ll have images that are unique and unexpected—perfect for families who want something a little different this season.
5. Holiday Card Prep 🎄✨
It might feel early, but the best time to plan your holiday portraits is in the fall. Booking now ensures you’ll have your images ready for holiday cards, gifts, and seasonal keepsakes. Plus, your family will thank you when you’re not rushing in December to get it all done.
✨ Why Book Your Fall Family Session Now?
Fall dates fill up fast, especially with popular events and holidays on the horizon. Booking early guarantees you the best locations, golden-hour timeslots, and stress-free prep for the holiday season.
At When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media & Designs, we specialize in creating portraits that feel genuine, joyful, and uniquely you. From pumpkin patch moments to private fall beach sessions, we’ll help you capture memories that will warm your heart for years to come.
📸 Ready to book your fall family session?
Contact us TODAY to make your forever memories!
Spots are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re gone! Let’s make this season one you’ll never forget.
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, headshots, 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 experience! 💕
Back to School: First Week Tips & Tricks for Capturing Memories
Back to School: First Week Tips & Tricks for Capturing Memories
August 2025
Calling all MOM-arazzi’s & DAD-arazzi’s!
It’s that time again—backpacks are packed, lunchboxes are ready, and social media feeds are filling with those all-important first day of school photos. Whether your kids are heading off to Pre-K, Elementary, Middle, High School, or even College, these pictures become treasures we look back on for years. And trust me, you’ll miss them the moment they stop posing for you!
Here are my top tips and tricks for capturing those first-day memories and making each school year unforgettable.
1. Set Up the Perfect First Day Shot
For younger kids, try having them sit on a step or lean against a wall. It helps curb the wiggles and first-day jitters. Bonus: stairs or a porch are perfect for displaying a custom “Back to School” sign with stats like grade, age, favorite color, and leave out all the personal details like teacher, school, and name for safety for those social media post.
Tip: Don’t be afraid of a close-up! Have them prop their hands under their chin and look up at you for a sweet, candid moment.
Pro Tip: Skip saying “cheese”! Natural expressions are always more flattering—and more authentic. 😆
2. Capture the Entire Day
The magic doesn’t end at the front door. Capture the morning routine, the lunchbox prep, the bus ride, and even the goodnight kiss. Often, the best shots are the candid ones—those in-between moments that make your child’s personality shine.
3. Mix Up Your Backgrounds
Front doors are classic, but don’t limit yourself! Try:
-
A tree or garden
-
Flower beds or greenery
-
Windows or doorways indoors for natural light
Tip: Keep the sun behind your child to avoid squinty eyes. Shade is your friend!
4. Add Fun Props
Props take your photos to the next level:
-
Custom chalkboard signs or memory boards
-
Nostalgic throwbacks: Have your child hold their previous first-day photo each year to see the growth
-
Adult-sized “Class of” shirts for yearly photo comparisons
5. Include Family, Friends & Pets
First day of school photos don’t have to be solo shots. Include:
-
Parents or siblings
-
Friends at the bus stop
-
Pets (of course!)
Selfies and silly poses make memories even more fun.
6. Print & Preserve
Don’t let these moments fade into the digital world. Print a photo every year and display them.
Bonus: they make perfect decorations for graduation parties later on!
7. Have Fun & Be Creative
Make those memories, empty nesters—insert crocodile tears—even in emotional moments, you can make it laughable and memorable. Grab a “BYE BYE” sign, a bottle of sparkling cider, or a silly prop and celebrate the milestone!
8. Consider Professional Back-to-School Photos
Sometimes you want that extra-special shot. Whether you’re homeschooling, celebrating a big milestone, or want Senior Photography Experiences, When Skies Are Grey Photography, Media, & Designs by Denise can create customized back-to-school and senior memories for all ages—from a quick snappy session to a full paparazzi-style experience.
Because these moments are fleeting… let’s make them unforgettable!
Let’s chat about creating your Back to School memories this year! Schedule a Professional Back-to-School Session HERE!
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 experience! 💕
How to Prepare for Your Maternity Session: Capture the Glow, the Love, and the Moment
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.
👗 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.
🐾 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).
❤️ 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.
✨ 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!
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! 💕