What to Expect at Your Maternity Shoot
Becoming a mom is one of life’s most beautiful milestones—and your maternity session should feel just as meaningful. I believe in capturing this moment with grace, warmth, and a sense of authenticity that you’ll cherish forever. Here’s a simple guide to what you can expect during your maternity shoot and how to prepare for a relaxed and joyful experience.
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
Most maternity sessions take place between 28–34 weeks. During this window, your bump is beautifully defined while you’re still comfortable enough to move, pose, and truly enjoy the experience. We’ll choose a date that best supports how you’re feeling and the look you want to achieve.
Wardrobe Guidance for Mom
Wardrobe plays a huge role in the overall feel of your images, and thoughtful styling helps create timeless, flattering portraits. I provide guidance every step of the way so you don’t have to guess.
Here’s what photographs best and what to keep in mind when selecting your outfits:
Flowy dresses create a soft, romantic look and photograph beautifully.
I recommend including at least one outfit that clearly highlights your bump without needing to hold or press your hands against it.
Dresses with gentle structure under the bust or that naturally contour the belly tend to photograph best.
Neutral tones, soft colors, and simple textures are timeless and elegant on camera.
It is best to avoid bold patterns, logos, or neon colors, as these can distract from you and date your images.
We can always clip dresses in the back if needed for a better fit.
Bust fit and dress length should be correct, as these areas are the most difficult to adjust in post-processing.
When in doubt, sizing up is often the most flattering option and provides better drape and movement.
As a complimentary service when you book with me, I offer a curated selection of maternity dresses to my clients. These pieces are chosen specifically for how they photograph and feel during a session. You can view what is currently available in my studio wardrobe HERE.
What the Session Feels Like
You don’t need to know how to pose or worry about what to do with your hands—that’s my job. Your session is guided, relaxed, and intentionally paced.
During your maternity shoot, you can expect:
Gentle direction and posing that feels natural and flattering
A calm, supportive environment where you can slow down and enjoy the moment
Space for real connection—whether it’s just you, or you’re including your partner or children
The goal is never stiff or overly posed images, but rather photographs that feel refined, emotional, and true to you.
Studio or Outdoor Sessions
Maternity sessions can take place in my studio or outdoors, depending on the aesthetic you’re drawn to. Studio sessions are timeless and minimal, allowing the focus to remain entirely on you and your connection to your baby. Outdoor sessions offer natural light, movement, and a softer organic feel.
We’ll choose the setting that best complements your vision and wardrobe.
How to Prepare for the Day
A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, enjoyable experience:
Stay hydrated and eat beforehand
Bring comfortable shoes if we’ll be walking or changing locations
Allow yourself to rest—we’ll take breaks whenever needed
Most importantly, come ready to slow down and be present
You don’t need to perform or “get it right.” The most beautiful images come from simply showing up as you are.
After Your Session
Following your session, you’ll receive a curated gallery of professionally edited images. These photographs are meant to be lived with—displayed in your home, shared with loved ones, and revisited long after this season has passed.
Your maternity session is about more than documenting a bump—it’s about honoring the transformation, strength, and tenderness of this moment in your life. I make sure that every detail is thoughtfully considered so you feel confident, supported, and beautifully seen.
Have any additional questions? Reach out to me at katenaglephotography@gmail.com and we can chat through the rest.