Maternity Photography

As you become a mother, capture the change with maternity photography

Pregnancy is an incredible experience in a woman’s life.

Pregnancy is an incredible experience in a woman’s life.  Your body goes through one-change-after-another as it reacts to the growing form within you.  For most women, it happens just once or twice in a lifetime. It can be uncomfortable and tiring, but it’s also incredible. Maternity photography leaves you with keepsakes to remember the power of your body and spirit.

A maternity session is a time to feel beautiful and nurtured.

Of course, pregnancy comes with its challenges. You don’t always love the way you look. You might feel big and bloated, and uncomfortable. Sometimes you need some TLC. We feel you.  We can’t wait to remind you during your maternity session that you ARE beautiful, amazing, and magnificent.

Pregnancy photos are also a time to connect with your partner.

What you and your loved one are going through is so special. Before you know it, your baby will be here. Take time to pause and reconnect during your pregnancy photos.  Hold onto each other and celebrate the life to be.

Interested in booking a maternity session and celebrating your own motherhood?  Visit our maternity pricing page to choose your package.   You may also enjoy reading these related articles:

Frequently asked questions about maternity photos:

Which maternity photography style is right for you?

As you’ve probably gathered looking through my images, maternity photography can range in style from intimate, boudoir maternity to natural, candid imagery.  Rest assured, each session is customized to YOUR taste and comfort.  We’ll chat before your session to talk through what you’re looking for and make sure you feel comfortable and confident going into your experience.

I want to go “bump-out” but I’m nervous, can you share more about your privacy policy and process?

If you do decide to go “bump-out” or even more with implied nude, know you’re in a safe space in my studio.  I’ve worked with hundreds of women shooting boudoir photography over the last decade. I have a lot of practice posing and directing women of all different shapes, sizes, and experiences. You can think of me a bit like a fitness instructor. I’ll guide you through a series of poses that will flatter your frame and highlight all those beautiful pregnancy curves.

Images by default always remain private unless you give specific permission for use (as with these clients).

When should I come in for a maternity photoshoot? 

In my experience, the sweet spot is between 7-8 months or 30-34 weeks.  You should have a nice popped bump by this point, but minimal swelling.  All pregnancies are different though, so if you’re popping early (often common with second or third-time moms) or late (common with longer torsos), you might want to come in a little earlier or later than the others.

What should I wear? 

Oh yes, the BIG question.  Aren’t we always asking ourselves this while pregnant?  It can be a bit of a challenge dressing your bump.  My general advice is to let it take front and center.  Form-fitting pieces are great for maternity sessions.  I love simple, form-fitting dresses or tops that will make for a great silhouette, button-down shirts that open at the waist to show your belly, and activewear sets like boy shorts and a bralette or yoga pants and a sports bra.  Robes are also great for flexibility and feel ultra-feminine. Tunic dresses or maxi dresses are also great but do require a little more involvement with how they lay or are pulled against your body to show off your bump.  Take a peek through my images above to see some of the pieces that have worked for other clients and feel free to ask for more help anytime leading up to your session.  I’m happy to provide links to options I’ve found to photograph well.

In the end, stay true to yourself.  I love it when people express their personality through their clothing (like one client wearing her most favorite, worn-out jeans, unbuttoned to fit, but a nod to her identity beyond expectant mom.)

Can I bring my significant other? 

Absolutely.  Partners are a huge part of the experience and I welcome them in the pictures.  Many clients have their S.O. come for the last 15-30 minutes of their session, to get pictures together. If you’re S.O. isn’t too keen on photos (it’s ok, it’s not uncommon), then even 5 minutes at the beginning or end of your photoshoot is fine.  I try to keep my couples sessions fun and easy-going, for any reluctant participants 😉

Can I bring my pet?

You bet! I love pets and welcome them in photoshoots.  I do ask that if they’re not going to be in all the photos, that they’re either created after, or someone else is there to care for them if they’re not able to relax on their own.  Also, just like kids, treats are always great for photoshoots with pets.

Can I bring my other kid(s)?

Sure thing!  I love to integrate older siblings into the photoshoot.  If you don’t plan to have them in all your photos, please bring someone to help supervise them during that time.

How many images do I receive and how long after the session?

Your session includes at least 30 images.  I’ll have them uploaded to an online gallery within 10 days of your session where you can view and download them.

Are photos touched up?

They are!  I complimentary touch-up things like bruises, blemishes, and obvious skin texture and garment bulges.  These photos are all about celebrating you at this moment, so I won’t be changing the integrity of your frame or making you look like someone else. If there’s something in particular you’re uncomfortable with (i.e. the line on your belly button that may appear) just let me know.  Things can always be lightened up to minimize the appearance without removing it altogether.

What sort of prints or products can I purchase? 

I have a wide selection of beautiful products to showcase your images.  Popular selections include framed wall art, albums, and image boxes. You can view the examples below. I’ll show you these while you’re in the studio and you’ll have the chance to purchase your own via the online gallery.

Where are you located? What is the studio like?

My studio is in the Chicago northside neighborhood of Ravenswood. I have a two-story coach house space with white brick walls, espresso hardwood floors upstairs, and contemporary fixtures and accents.   There’s lots of natural light, photogenic sets, and plenty of privacy.

I want an outdoor session, when and where do you like to photograph? 

Chicago has so many amazing backgrounds. We’re lucky to be in an area where you can find both urban cityscape, spots that look like your miles out in the country, and even a little of both.  During our consultation, I’ll ask you a few questions to learn more about what style of images you want and offer suggestions from my list of go-to spots.  If you’re looking for more intimate images outdoors, I even know locations for that as well.  Of course, early morning hours for those types of pictures will provide more privacy.  While it might be a tough wake-up, I promise the setting and gorgeous morning light make it well worth it.

Do you offer bundle packages for maternity photos plus newborn or family pictures?

I do! I can bundle two, three, and even four sessions for you in a single year. My most popular bundle option is maternity, newborn, and one additional session when the baby is sitting or walking (which are great for holiday cards.) You can learn more about my family sessions here.

Ready to book your own maternity session? Great! I can’t wait to connect. You can contact me here. If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15-minute stress-free phone call.