How to plan the perfect maternity photo shoot

The defenitive guide

The Beauty of the Studio Experience

There’s something deeply peaceful about a studio maternity photoshoot. Away from the unpredictable British weather and the distractions of the outside world, the studio becomes your private sanctuary — warm, calm, and full of soft light designed to flatter and sculpt your natural beauty.

Unlike outdoor sessions, which rely on luck with light, wind, and schedules, a studio photoshoot guarantees control. Every ray of light can be crafted — soft, directional, or golden — to enhance your features and the textures of your gown. No drizzle, no mud, no sudden gusts that send your hair in every direction. Instead, your experience unfolds gracefully, free from the pressure of unpredictable elements.

In the studio, we slow down. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an editorial set — quiet music, gentle direction, luxurious gowns ready on their hangers. Every session is tailored to your pace. If you need a moment to breathe or rest, you can. The studio’s warmth allows for delicate wardrobe changes, fluid posing, and intimacy that outdoor sessions can’t replicate.

For partners and young children, the comfort of an indoor space is transformative. Toddlers can play freely, partners can relax on a comfortable sofa, and there’s no worry about weather tantrums or muddy shoes. In this controlled, beautiful environment, we capture not only images but feelings — connection, anticipation, and love frozen in time.

What mums say

See what this lovely mums have to say about their experience

They made me feel comfortable and beautiful the whole time

Federica Read Review

They were kind, professional, and so patient — even with our energetic three-year-old

Cyntia Read review

The Perfect Timing

Maternity Photos

The perfect for maternity photography is 30 weeks. This is when your bump has its most elegant shape — round, full, and beautifully balanced — and you still have the energy to enjoy the experience. For some mums, that moment comes earlier; for others, a few weeks later. The key is comfort and confidence.

Every pregnancy is unique. Some women feel radiant early on, while others bloom later. What matters most is how you feel inside your body. Your photographer’s role is to help you find that moment — when movement still feels easy, and your glow is undeniable.

Insider Tip: If you’re expecting twins or have a higher-risk pregnancy, consider scheduling your session between 26–30 weeks. Earlier sessions mean we can still create stunning imagery while you’re feeling your best.

In London, spring and autumn remain the most requested times for photoshoots, but in the studio, season doesn’t matter. Rain may fall outside, but inside, the soft light is eternal — warm, golden, timeless.

The Art of Wardrobe Styling

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Your wardrobe tells the emotional story of your photoshoot. Fabric, colour, and texture come together to express who you are in this moment. We begin every session with a curated wardrobe consultation, ensuring your outfits harmonize with your personality and the mood you want to create.

In our collection, you’ll find flowing silks that catch the light, lace that whispers femininity, and minimalist pieces that highlight your form. The legendary red flying-tail gown adds cinematic elegance, creating a sense of movement that feels both powerful and divine. Each gown is chosen for its ability to make you feel radiant.

Colour Psychology for Maternity Portraits

Every hue tells a story. Ivory, beige, and champagne tones radiate purity and warmth. Pastels like blush and dove grey evoke serenity and tenderness. Jewel tones — emerald, sapphire, ruby — bring bold elegance. By pairing these tones thoughtfully, your session becomes a visual poem.

Partners and children benefit from this harmony too. Coordinating without matching — soft neutrals or complementary shades — creates balance. For little ones, comfort is key: linen over lace, cotton over polyester, ease over perfection.

Preparing Your Family

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Including family in your maternity session transforms it from a portrait into a love story. Whether it’s your partner’s proud glance or your toddler’s gentle touch on your bump, these are the unscripted moments that define familyhood.

When preparing your family, remember: the energy you bring sets the tone. If you approach the day with calm joy, they’ll follow. The studio atmosphere is designed to make everyone feel safe and cherished.

  • Choose a morning or mid-day slot when toddlers are well-rested.
  • Pack small rewards like fruit, snacks, a favourite toy.
  • Let them explore gently so we can capture their curiosity as part of the story.
  • Encourage partners to be emotionally present, not performative. Tenderness always photographs better than perfection.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s connection. A session where laughter echoes through the studio and love becomes visible in every frame.

What mums say

More mums sharing their experience with us

The photos are stunning, my friends immediately jumped to book their session.

Supriya Sinha Read Review

Easily the best experience with a photographer to date!

Carla Carvalho Read review

Confidence in Front of the Camera

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Confidence doesn’t come from knowing how to pose; it comes from being seen. In every maternity session, my role is to guide, not demand. I’ll help you find your best angles, show you gentle movement prompts, and adjust lighting to flatter your natural features. Within minutes, nerves fade, replaced by grace and calm.

Your body is powerful. Every curve, line, and detail tells a story of creation. The goal of your photoshoot is not to conceal but to celebrate that beauty — the glow that only motherhood brings.

To help you feel grounded, here are a few steps to cultivate calm before your session:

  • Take slow breaths — they naturally relax your posture and expression.
  • Listen to your favourite calming playlist as you prepare.
  • Visualize how you want to feel: confident, adored, radiant.

Pro Tip: Real beauty is in authenticity. The moment you stop performing and start feeling — that’s when the magic happens.

The Flow of a Studio Session

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Every studio maternity session is built on rhythm, it's a graceful progression from preparation to artistry. You’ll be welcomed into a softly lit room where calm music plays and gowns await. We’ll begin with a relaxed conversation about your comfort level and preferences before moving into your first look.

Throughout the shoot, lighting changes will add dimension and bright softness for ethereal portraits, sculpted shadows for timeless elegance. Each outfit tells a different story, each moment revealing a new layer of your journey into motherhood.

Breaks are woven into the experience. You’ll never feel rushed or exposed. The studio becomes an extension of your home, safe, warm, full of light.

Tips for a Seamless Experience

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For Mum

Before the Session

  • Although you can wear as many of our looks as you want, for trully unique photos you might want to prepare 2–3 outfits
  • Book hair and makeup, ideally within two hours of your shoot.
  • Pack sentimental items (ultrasound, baby shoes, jewellery).
  • Hydrate well and rest deeply the night before.
  • Confirm directions, schedule, and session plan.

On the Day

  • Wear loose clothing to avoid red marks.
  • Eat a light meal and stay hydrated.
  • Bring touch-up makeup and hairbrush.
  • Relax and trust the process — we’ll guide you through everything.

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For Dad

Before the Session

  • Choose solid, neutral tones (jeans and white shirt is a good option) and avoid logos.
  • Trim beard or hair if needed and iron your outfit.
  • Coordinate colours with mum’s wardrobe.
  • Plan your route and arrive a few minutes early.
  • Bring patience and warmth — your energy shapes the experience.

On the Day

  • Switch phone to silent mode and empty pockets.
  • Assist with carrying bags and keeping toddlers engaged.
  • Be present — hold her hand, share laughter, and enjoy the moment.
  • Stay relaxed and encouraging throughout.
  • Celebrate her beauty and this milestone together.

Mistakes to Avoid

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  • Waiting too long to book: it's risky after 32 weeks.
  • Wearing tight clothes the morning of your session: they leave marks.
  • Skipping rest or hydration: fatigue shows through expression.
  • Overpreparing toddlers: spontaneity makes better photos.
  • Trying to control every detail: magic thrives in authenticity.

From Bump to Baby

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Your maternity session marks the beginning of your family’s visual story. The same soft light that shaped your maternity portraits becomes the glow around your newborn’s first days. Booking both sessions together creates continuity — the colour palette, tone, and emotion flow seamlessly from one chapter to the next.

These images grow more powerful with time. Years from now, your child will see not just a photograph, but a love letter from the moment before their arrival — the quiet joy and anticipation written across your face.

Studio sessions ensure newborn comfort too. Controlled warmth, hygienic surfaces, and soft soundscapes allow for peaceful images that honour the fragility of new life.

Your Session

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Motherhood is both ordinary and extraordinary it's a rhythm of love that shapes your family’s legacy.

In our Maida Vale studio, every detail is crafted for your peace, comfort, and radiance.

The gowns, the light, the music are all chosen to help you feel deeply seen and celebrated.

Let’s create portraits your children will one day hold in their hands and reminds of how deeply they were loved before they ever arrived.

Let’s create something unforgettable