How to Prepare for a Maternity Session: A Complete Guide from a Bridgend Maternity Photographer

adelemorris
May 4
7 min read

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and transformative times in a woman’s life. Whether you’re expecting your first child or your third, maternity photography captures the essence of this unique moment—showing the beauty, the excitement, and the anticipation of bringing new life into the world.

If you’ve booked a maternity photography session and are feeling a bit unsure about what to expect or how to prepare, don’t worry. As a professional Bridgend maternity photographer, I’m here to guide you through the process and offer helpful tips that will ensure you feel confident, relaxed, and ready to make the most of your maternity shoot.

Why Choose a Maternity Session?

Before diving into how to prepare, let’s take a moment to reflect on why a maternity shoot is worth considering. A maternity session is more than just beautiful photographs—it’s about preserving the memories of your pregnancy journey. With a maternity photoshoot, you’re not only capturing your baby bump but also celebrating the bond between you and your partner, the excitement you feel as parents, and the anticipation of welcoming a new life into your family.

For many women, the time leading up to birth can be overwhelming, but maternity photography gives you the chance to step back, breathe, and appreciate the unique changes that are happening to your body. It’s a way of celebrating your strength, beauty, and the wonderful adventure ahead.

1. Book Your Maternity Session at the Right Time

One of the first questions you may ask is: When is the best time to schedule a maternity session? In my experience as a Bridgend maternity photographer, the ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is typically between 28 to 34 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, your baby bump is noticeable, but you’re still feeling relatively comfortable, which makes for a more enjoyable experience.

If you wait too long, you may feel uncomfortable and fatigued as you get closer to your due date. The goal is to capture the beauty of pregnancy while you’re still feeling like yourself, and at this stage, you’ll have enough time to prepare and make the session a fun, stress-free experience.

2. Plan Your Outfit(s)

Choosing what to wear is an essential part of preparing for a maternity session. You’ll want to feel comfortable, confident, and showcase your beautiful baby bump in a flattering way. Here are some outfit ideas and tips to help guide you:

Dress for Your Shape

Maternity dresses are a popular choice for maternity photography as they are designed to highlight your curves in a way that feels comfortable and natural. A flowing, long dress can accentuate the roundness of your belly, and it will create a beautiful, ethereal feel in your photos. Additionally, form-fitting dresses can also be flattering by showcasing the bump, so feel free to experiment with different styles to see what feels best for you.

Stick to Soft, Neutral Colours

I always recommend choosing clothing in soft, neutral tones, like pastels, creams, and muted earth tones. These colours not only look great in photos but also create a timeless and classic look. White, beige, blush pink, and soft blues are all excellent choices that pair well with the natural beauty of your surroundings.

Avoid Busy Patterns

While bold patterns and prints can be fun, they can also distract from the focus of the photos: you and your baby bump. If you choose to wear a pattern, opt for something subtle and elegant. Solid colours work best, but if you want to add a little texture, choose fabrics like lace, chiffon, or silk that add depth without drawing attention away from you.

Accessorise Thoughtfully

If you want to add a personal touch, consider wearing simple jewellery, a flower crown, or a shawl or scarf that can add movement and elegance to your photos. Remember, less is often more when it comes to accessories. You want to look natural and radiant without overwhelming the image with too many accessories.

Consider Your Partner’s Outfit

If your partner will be joining the session, it’s a good idea to plan their outfit to complement yours. Coordinating outfits without being overly matchy-matchy will create a balanced and harmonious look. For example, if you’re wearing a soft, neutral dress, your partner could wear a simple shirt in a complementary colour. The goal is to feel like a cohesive unit without too much distraction from the main subject: you.

3. Grooming and Beauty Prep

Your maternity photoshoot is your time to shine, and a little grooming can go a long way. Here are some beauty tips that will help you feel pampered and ready for the camera:

Hair and Makeup

You don’t need to go overboard with your makeup and hair, but a little enhancement can make a difference. If you’re comfortable with makeup, go for a natural, glowing look. I recommend soft eyeshadow, a light blush, and a natural lip colour. You want to look like yourself—just the best version of you.

If you’re considering professional hair and makeup services for your session, this can be a great option to ensure you feel confident and pampered. A professional stylist can help you achieve a polished look that enhances your natural beauty.

Nails and Skin

If you’re planning to have your hands or feet photographed, it’s a good idea to get a manicure and pedicure before the session. Neatly groomed nails make a big difference in your photos, especially when holding your baby bump or your partner’s hands. Similarly, make sure your skin is well-moisturised for a glowing, healthy look.

4. Prepare for the Session Itself

Preparing for the photoshoot day is just as important as planning your outfits and grooming. Here’s how you can make sure your session goes smoothly:

Rest and Hydrate

The day before the shoot, try to rest and hydrate well. A good night’s sleep will leave you feeling refreshed, and drinking plenty of water will keep your skin looking radiant. I recommend avoiding salty foods that can cause bloating and drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and glowing.

Arrive Early and Relax

On the day of your session, aim to arrive early so you can take your time to relax and settle in. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early gives you the chance to unwind and feel at ease. If you’re bringing your partner or children, it also gives everyone a chance to get comfortable with the space and environment.

Expect to Have Fun

A maternity session should be fun and stress-free! We’ll take breaks when needed, and I’ll guide you through posing and expressions. Don’t worry about being perfect—just focus on enjoying the experience and celebrating this special time in your life. I’m here to make you feel comfortable, confident, and at ease, so don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything.

5. Include Special Items or Props (Optional)

Sometimes, incorporating special items into your shoot can make the photos even more meaningful. For example, you may want to bring an ultrasound image, a pair of baby shoes, or a meaningful family heirloom to include in the shoot. If you’d like to incorporate props into your session, I’m happy to help guide you in choosing items that will add to the story without overwhelming the photos.

6. What Happens After the Session?

Once your maternity session is complete, the next step is the editing process. You can expect your images to be professionally edited to enhance the natural beauty of the photos while maintaining a timeless, authentic feel. Afterward, I’ll schedule a viewing session where you can choose your favourite images, and we’ll discuss print options, albums, and other keepsakes that will preserve your beautiful memories for years to come.

Conclusion: Trust Your Photographer

As a Bridgend maternity photographer, my goal is to make your maternity session as seamless and enjoyable as possible. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to embrace the beauty of pregnancy and celebrate this incredible journey with gorgeous, timeless photographs.

I understand how special and emotional this time is, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way to create a photoshoot that tells your unique story.

Ready to book your maternity session?

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or to schedule your shoot. I can’t wait to help you preserve the magic of this incredible time.

By following these tips and preparing for your maternity session, you can ensure a stress-free, fun, and beautiful experience. From choosing the right outfits to getting plenty of rest, every little detail adds to the final result of stunning images you’ll cherish forever.

About the Photographer

Hi, I’m Adele Morris, a multi-award-winning Bridgend maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Porthcawl, South Wales.

Photography has been a lifelong passion of mine—one that was sparked at the age of 6 when I was entrusted with my mum’s camera on a family holiday. That one small moment turned into a deep love for capturing the beauty in everyday connection. I later studied photography in art college, working with traditional film and developing prints in a darkroom, which gave me a strong foundation in both creative vision and technical skill.

But it was motherhood—alongside personal experiences with pregnancy loss—that gave my work its heart. Through love, loss, and the journey of becoming a mother, I found my purpose in helping other families preserve their own milestones. I understand just how meaningful these moments are, and how important it is to feel safe, seen, and supported throughout your photography experience.

I hold certifications in newborn posing safety, an enhanced DBS, and I’m proud to offer a welcoming, inclusive studio space for every kind of family. My goal is always to make you feel relaxed, honoured, and heard—whether you’re booking your first maternity session or capturing your fifth baby.

Let’s tell your story beautifully, together.