Taking photos during your pregnancy helps capture your body's week-by-week transformation along with your feelings of anticipation as you wait for your family to grow.
When it comes to maternity photos, you've got tons of options. Different poses, props, backdrops, and even pets can reflect the personality and style of the parents-to-be.
"I always recommend that my clients choose a location that is meaningful for them and helps to tell their story," says Sara Wight, a New York City- and Washington D.C.-based photographer.
That could be the site of a meaningful moment, a beautiful vista, or simply the comforts of your living room. Think of spots that bring you joy, nourishment, and inspiration for your pregnancy photo shoot, she recommends.
No matter how you pose — or who joins you in the photo — keep the focus on the bump, Wight advises. "That might seem obvious, but sometimes it's unnoticeable at first glance if you are looking at [the mom-to-be] straight on," she says. Wight's goal when taking maternity pictures: a photo where the bump is showcased in a natural, flattering way.
Not sure where to begin? Browse this list for a little maternity photo shoot inspiration.
Couple maternity photo ideas
Want to give your partner a starring role in your maternity pictures? Recreate one of these couple-friendly poses.
Hand-in-hand, together
No need to strike an unnatural pose for a pregnancy announcement. In this simple shot, the parents-to-be hold hands while walking together, with the mom-to-be's free hand resting on her baby bump.
Sweet embrace
Pull your significant other in close to replicate this sweet photo.
A holiday twist
If the timing works, both parents-to-be can don Halloween costumes. That, along with a letterboard to share some pertinent details about the baby's arrival, can help you spread the news. Or, work in another upcoming holiday — Easter, Hanukkah, or more! — into a couple-friendly photo shoot.
Confetti, plus a big balloon
Cue the confetti! Along with a big balloon — and bigger smiles — a festive sprinkle on the expectant parents shows the excitement levels for this baby are high.
Cute and cozy
Let your wardrobe help signify your closeness. Warm textures and complimentary colors can help convey your (growing!) love on camera.
Family maternity photo ideas
Welcoming a second child to your family? Make celebratory photos a group event including friends, family, and soon-to-be older siblings.
All dressed in white
It's a family affair for these glowing parents as they announce their second child.
Matching bumps
A pudgy toddler belly resting on mom's own growing bump leads to a sweet shot. This maternity photo idea gives an older sibling a starring role.
Funny maternity photo ideas
Sending maternity photos to friends and family near and far? Seize the opportunity to put a smile on their faces.
An unexpected vantage point
This pose plays with perspective by placing the dad-to-be's head atop the pregnant parent's body. It's the kind of photo that'll make viewers do a second take — then giggle.
Surprise! A baby's on the way
These parents-to-be don their best shocked faces to spread the news, complete with a sonogram.
Starring dad
A message on a pregnancy test sums it all up for this growing family.
Maternity photo poses
A growing bump is the natural star of any maternity photo. But figuring out the best way to pose isn't always easy. Let these beautiful photos inspire you on how to approach your own photo session.
Looking down at your bump
No need to reinvent the wheel! This mom-to-be proves that a loving look at your growing baby bump plus a natural backdrop is a no-fail combination.
Cross-legged
A casual photo, with legs crossed at home, captures this mom at ease in her third trimester. Just don't wait to go too close to your due date. "I'm a maternity and newborn photographer, and I encourage my clients to have their maternity session between 28 and 34 weeks," says What to Expect Community mom elliesmom24. "It's the perfect sweet spot. Anything later and you might feel way too swollen and blah, or you might entirely miss the session because baby came earlier. It's happened before!"
Among the trees
A side profile puts the focus on the baby, with the mama's big grin making her joy for the new arrival crystal clear.
A close-up on a moment of calm
Both the setting (in the bedroom) and the tight crop on the mom-to-be make this an intimate shot.
A side stance
Standing in silhouette and turning to face the camera can showcase your bump and beaming smile all at once.
Framed by foliage
The sightlines at your photo shoot setting can help draw the focus to your growing baby.
In silhouette
A glowing sunset provided the perfect light for showcasing this mom-to-be's baby bump.
Cute candid
Bonus points if the photographer (or your partner) can get a genuine laugh out of you.
Maternity photo shoot props
Not sure what to bring with you besides your best duds? Try posing with some props for a wider variety of photos in your camera reel.
Colorful balloons
A trip to the party store for some oversized balloons can yield some pretty festive results.
Baby is THIS big
If you love to track your baby's week-by-week development, bring on the produce props and highlight baby's size with the corresponding fruit or vegetable. A handy letterboard can provide more relevant details.
Shades and a summery hat
Your family's future is looking bright, so why not put on a pair of sunnies and a wide-brimmed hat for part of your maternity photo shoot?
Get prepped for baby one step at a time with the What to Expect app, where you'll find pregnancy and post-baby checklists, tips, and expert guidance from now through delivery.
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