Want to take your maternity photos to the next level?
Capturing your pregnancy is something every mama-to-be dreams of. But there's a secret that you may not know…
The best maternity sessions are the ones that include not just mom but the entire family that is waiting to welcome the new addition!
In this ultimate guide, we'll tell you all you need to know about including your family in your maternity photography session.
Family-involved maternity photos are magical in a way that solo sessions aren't.
Take a look ahead…
In the years to come when you're flipping through those pregnancy albums, you'll see so much more than your adorable bump. You'll see the excitement in your partner's eyes, the wonderment on your toddler's face as he feels the baby kick and the warmth that surrounded you during this special time.
A growing number of families are now incorporating partners, children and even pets into their maternity photoshoot according to a recent industry trend analysis. Maternity photography is no longer just mom's pregnancy, it's a family affair. Including everyone in your sessions help commemorate the growth of your family and create keepsakes that tell the whole story.
Here's why these types of photos are so special:
Family maternity images capture real emotions that posed studio shots lack. When your three-year-old presses his cheek to your belly or your partner's hands cradle both of yours in protection, that is the gold that mama will cherish.
Kids are aces at being themselves, too. They bring the best smiles and laughs. Your littlest family members keep the mood light and fun, making everyone more relaxed for happier images.
Timing is a critical part of any maternity session. But when it comes to incorporating family members into your sessions it takes on a whole new level of importance.
When is the best time to schedule your maternity session? We like to shoot during week 30-36.
Here's why this is the sweet spot:
Booking your session with children involved is different because you must consider your little one's schedules. Family photography experts recommend booking earlier in the 2nd trimester to secure your preferred date during busy seasons.
Pro tip: If you have small children, book your session during their happiest times of day. Nobody likes a hangry toddler at 6pm.
For families seeking professional quality and control, studio maternity portraits offer exceptional results with expertly crafted lighting. Studios are less dependent on weather and natural lighting, making them easier for families with multiple children or irregular schedules.
Here comes the fun part!
Let's talk about all the creative ideas for including every member of your family in your maternity session.
Dads, partners and significant others should have a role in any maternity session. After all, they are part of the story as well!
Mom's in the hood love including partners for this very reason. Here are some beautiful examples of partner-involvement:
Couples maternity portraits are in high-demand because they speak to the connection between mom and dad. They are both becoming parents, and it is sweet to capture that shared experience.
Kids, whether they are the "biggest sibling" or have siblings that follow them, often steal the show during family photography.
Why? Because children naturally provide authenticity to family images. Let them interact with your bump naturally - gentle kisses, touches, or excited chatter about the baby.
Some good ideas for siblings in your family session:
The general idea with kids is "don't force it". Pose as little as possible. Kids are usually cuter when just being themselves.
It isn't family if it doesn't include Fido!
Pets make such great additions to family photo shoots. They add playfulness and also highlight the important role our furry (and not so furry) companions have in our family units.
Make sure your pet is comfortable though around cameras and new places. Bring their favorite treats or a family member who knows how to keep them calm.
Coordination is not every mom's strong suit and bringing together various members of your family for a photography session can be challenging to say the least.
How to make it work?
The real secret here? Experienced photographers who are pros at working with families. They bring tricks, games, backup plans, and energy to make everyone happy!
Here's the most common mistake families make when it comes to maternity photography:
Trying to control everything.
When you let your guard down and embrace the session, that is when magic can happen. Children will probably not look at the camera 100% of the time. Someone will inevitably have a meltdown. Your 2-year-old will want to stop every 5 seconds and smell every flower or sniff every dog.
And that is just fine. These real moments create the most treasured family photos.
Mom and baby laughing over your 4-year-old's questions about if the baby is "cooking" in there. Dad gently explains the camera to your scared middle-child. Grandma hugging you close while your pooch stays close by your side, protectively.
Before the session:
During the session:
Just remember: The goal here is not to get everyone to stand in perfect poses. The goal is to capture how your family feels about this baby and the love that is surrounding you from the very start.
Photographers vary as much as the services and styles they offer.
Not every photographer specializes in family maternity sessions. Here are some important things to look for:
Family photography trends for 2024 all point toward authenticity, connection and creativity. The top family photographers know that no two families are alike and take the time to adjust their approach to suit your family's unique needs.
Incorporating your family in your maternity photos is the best way to create special memories that solo images cannot match. A family-involved session can capture not just your pregnancy but the love, anticipation and excitement shared by your entire family.
Timing, preparation and finding the right photographer are key to a successful family-involved maternity photo session. But the most important part of the process is not planning every moment and simply being open to enjoy and relax with your loved ones.
Here are a few take-home points:
