HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER
- Portrait Madame Studio
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Pregnancy is a remarkable chapter in your life and each pregnancy will only happens once.
It's filled with anticipation, transformation, and emotion. Capturing that fleeting beauty through maternity photography is a way to preserve the glow, the strength, and the quiet power of motherhood.
But with so many photographers out there,
how do you find the right one?
Here’s a guidance list to help you make a confident and meaningful choice.
1. START WITH YOUR VISION ✨
Before you look at price tags or packages, ⏸️ pause to consider what you truly want.
Do you imagine soft, dreamy portraits in a sunlit meadow?
Or something modern and dramatic in a studio setting?
Your ideal style—whether natural, posed, candid, or artistic—will guide your decision and help narrow your options.
If you don't really know what you want, select a photographer who is able to create images in different styles.
2. SEEK MATERNITY-SPECIFIC EXPERTISE 👌
Maternity photography is a craft of its own
A seasoned maternity photographer will know how to gently direct you into poses that flatter your changing body, work with natural or studio light to highlight your bump, and most importantly—make you feel relaxed and beautiful.
Don’t be shy to ask how many maternity shoots they’ve done and view full galleries, not just highlight reels.
3. CONSIDER THE SETTING 📸
Location can make a huge difference in the mood of your photos.
Some photographers offer cozy in-home sessions that feel personal and intimate.
Others create unique experience in their maternity studio: they can create different styles, from casual imagery to very dramatic look & feel of pregnancy photos
And then others specialize in outdoor shoots
Some photographer are experienced in only one of those settings, and others able to create magical images in each of those setting.
Think about what environment makes you feel most like yourself—and make sure your photographer is comfortable working there !
Not all photographers are experienced in different lighting setting (outdoor vs indoor / in their studio vs on location at your own home)
4. SCHEDULE IT JUST RIGHT ⏳
The best time for maternity photos is typically between 28 to 34 weeks—when your belly is beautifully round but you’re still comfortable moving around.
Since photographers often book out weeks (or months) in advance, it’s smart to start looking early in your second trimester.
5. LOOK BEYOND THE CAMERA 😊
A photographer’s personality matters just as much as their technical skills.
During your shoot, you want someone who can make you laugh, put you at ease, and guide you without pressure.
Look for someone whose energy matches yours—someone who sees you, not just a subject.
A good way to assess that is through a Zoom consultation prior to the session. It is HIGHLY advised to only book a session once you have had a online or face to face consultation.
6. BE CLEAR ON WHAT'S INCLUDED 🖼️
Photography packages can vary widely.
Some include just digital files, others offer prints on top of the digitals, or wardrobe styling.
Always ask exactly what you’ll receive, how many final images you’ll get, and whether retouching is included. A clear agreement means no surprises later.
7. READ REVIEWS THOUGHTFULLY 🧐
Testimonials are helpful, but they’re most valuable when you look for patterns.
Do past clients mention how comfortable they felt during the shoot?
Are they thrilled with the final images?
Look for feedback that reflects what you care about most—be it quality, professionalism, creativity, or kindness.
8. THINK ABOUT THE WHOLE STORY: NEWBORN PHOTOS 🍼
If you’re planning to do newborn or milestone sessions later, see if the photographer offers bundle options or continuity in style.
Some photographers love to document the full journey—from bump to baby—and that long-term connection can create a powerful visual story.
9. BRING YOUR OWN MAGIC 💞
Don’t be afraid to personalize your session. Whether it’s including your partner, older children, pets, or meaningful props—choose a photographer who welcomes those details and helps weave them into the story you want to tell.
10. TRUST HOW YOU FEEL 💫
Finally, trust your instincts. If their work speaks to you, their process makes you feel supported, and you walk away from your consultation feeling excited—you’ve likely found the one.
Maternity photography isn’t about perfection—
it’s about presence.
It’s about freezing this wild, beautiful moment in time, so you can return to it again and again.
With the right photographer, your session becomes more than a photo shoot—
it becomes a celebration of who you are and the life you’re creating.
✨ THE MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER SELECTION CHECKLIST 📝
✅ Define Your Vision
Choose your preferred style :natural & casual, posed, dramatic lighting & artistic, etc.
✅ Look for Maternity Experience
Select a photographer skilled & experienced in maternity posing and lighting.
✅ Choose the Right Setting
Decide between studio, outdoor, in-home, or a special location & check that the photographer is experienced in the setting you want.
✅ Time It Well
Book your session for 28–34 weeks of pregnancy.
✅ Connect Personally
Find someone who matches your personality & makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Prioritise a photographer that organise an online or face to face consultation before your maternity session.
✅ Understand the Package
Clarify what’s included: digital files, prints, retouching, maternity wardrobe.
✅ Read Reviews Carefully
Look for feedback that highlights experience, comfort, and quality.
✅ Consider Future Sessions
See if they offer newborn or family photography as well for after birth
✅ Make It Personal
Bring props, outfits, or loved ones to add meaning to your session.
✅ Trust Your Gut
Go with the photographer who feels like the right fit.
The elegant & minimalist maternity photos of this article were created by Alice Prenat. You too can also enjoy a luxury maternity photoshoot with Alice at the NYC and Paris studios (other locations can be discussed upon request).