Expectant parents experience so many emotions as they prepare for the arrival of their baby. From seeing those pink lines on a pregnancy test to feeling the first tiny kick, each pregnancy milestone holds so much significance in the parenthood journey.

An affectionate moment captured in Discovery Park, as a man tenderly kisses the forehead of his pregnant partner. In the background, the vast expanse of the ocean and majestic mountains creates a breathtaking backdrop.

While many are set on Newborn photos to capture those sweet early moments of their baby’s life, the idea of Maternity photos isn’t always at the forefront of their minds. I've had numerous conversations with expecting parents who are sure they want newborn photos but aren’t sure about the value of a maternity session.

Maternity photos may not be for everyone, and that's okay. Pregnancy is so unique to each person and can be filled with a lot of heightened emotions and stresses. Not everyone is as keen on wanting to relive those 9 months. However, for those who are open to it, I encourage taking the opportunity to capture this phase—and here's why.

Relaxed Sessions that
Make You Feel Stunning

First and foremost, pregnancy photos offer a really unique way to celebrate and cherish this brief time in your life (though it might not seem so brief when you’re going through it). I know that amidst back aches, mood swings, stress, and sleepless nights, stepping in front of a camera might not be high on your list. But these sessions are to celebrate your strength and can make you feel gorgeous (because you are!). And don’t worry, I’ll help you with wardrobe choices so you can make sure to wear something that compliments you and photographs beautifully.

Also, maternity sessions are much more laid-back than you might think! Whether it's in the comfort of your home or a beautiful park, these should be slow-paced and enjoyable. Having a photographer who makes sure to schedule your session at the optimal time during your pregnancy is huge, too—this should be done at a time when your bump is prominent but before you're too uncomfortable.

An Amazing Way to Reconnect
with Your Journey

Beyond just photographing your growing bump, maternity photos can also be a powerful reminder of the journey you've been on. The excitement, the nerves, the dreams, and the hopes—all of these emotions are woven into the fabric of your pregnancy experience.

Looking through maternity photos allows you to reconnect with those feelings, to reminisce about the anticipation and wonder of awaiting your little one's arrival.

pregnant woman and her partner stand close together in front of the water at Lincoln Park, laughing joyfully. Their expressions exude excitement and anticipation for the future ahead as they share a moment of happiness and connection

An Opportunity Slow Time for Couples

During a pregnancy photo shoot, time slows down. I make a point of making these sessions relaxed to allow couples to really savor these last moments before their family changes.

A husband and pregnant wife sitting on stone steps, embracing each other affectionately. The woman looks at the camera with a gentle smile, while the husband holds her close, conveying love and anticipation

My clients have shared with me that their maternity shoot gave them a beautiful reminder of the strength of their bond and the shared excitement of stepping into parenthood together. It allowed them to stand beside their person and let what’s about to happen really sink in.

A way to Celebrate the Chapter Before Your Family Grows

Maternity sessions aren't just for couples—they're for families too. They’re a special way for the entire family to bond and create memories together.

Taking a pause amidst the chaos of preparing for a new arrival gives families a sweet opportunity to connect, sharing tender moments and embracing the anticipation of welcoming a new member into their crew.

Including siblings in these photos adds an extra layer of magic, allowing them to feel involved and valued before adjusting to the changes that come with a new addition to the family. Maternity photoshoots aren't just about capturing images—they're about celebrating the love that binds families together.

The Perfect Companion to
Newborn Photos

Also, let's not forget the practical aspect—maternity photos offer a beautiful complement to newborn photos. Together, they form a narrative of the journey from pregnancy to parenthood, creating a cohesive story that you can share with your child as they grow older.

Imagine sitting down with your little one years from now, flipping through the pages of a photo album filled with images of their journey into the world—from the first phase of life in your belly to the first days of getting to know them.

Wrapping Up

To all the expectant parents out there on the fence about maternity photos, consider all of the above benefits! These laid-back pregnancy photo shoots should make you feel stunning, provide a way to reconnect with your pregnancy journey, celebrate the chapter before your family grows, and serve as the perfect companion to newborn photos. If all of this resonates with you, I encourage you to start looking into Maternity Session details.

Embrace the chance to capture the beauty, the emotion, and the journey of pregnancy. After all, these photos aren't just about documenting a fleeting moment—they're also about documenting a testament to the love and joy that brought your little one into the world.