Capturing Precious Moments: How Expecting Mothers Are Documenting Their Journey

January 28, 2026 - By Aliza

Capture one of the most meaningful periods of your life.

Maternity photo shoots have grown in popularity over the last several years. More mothers than ever are hiring photographers to document their pregnancy journey.

And there’s a reason why…

Maternity photos aren’t just pictures. They’re memories that will be passed down for generations to come.

In this article you’ll learn:

Why Maternity Photos Are Growing In Popularity
When To Book Your Session
Pregnancy Photo Trends For Expectant Mothers
Questions To Ask When Hiring A Photographer
Tips For Having The Best Maternity Photoshoot Ever

Why Are Maternity Photos Growing In Popularity?

The photography business right now is booming.

The photography industry in the US will reach $15.8 billion by 2025. A large portion of that will come from portrait photography….Including maternity shoots.

But why are so many mothers interested in getting professional photos done while pregnant?

These are a few reasons mothers choose to work with a professional:

Social media has made pregnancy announcements and bump photos extremely popular.
Pregnancy is a once in a lifetime event. Other events you may document will happen again.
Parents don’t want silly phone photos. They want high quality images they’ll cherish forever.

It’s pretty awesome to think about!

When searching for a photographer to document your maternity photography session, make sure you’re researching locally. You want to work with a photographer who knows your area and offers comprehensive maternity session details.

Maternity Photo Shoots Are Popular-Here’s When You Should Book Yours

Timing is crucial when it comes to pregnancy photos.

Let’s dive into the details…

Photographers generally recommend scheduling your maternity session anywhere from 28 weeks to 34 weeks. Your bump will be rounded nicely by now. And mommy-to-be should hopefully still be comfortable.

Note: Always book your session in advance. Great photographers book up quickly. Contact your photographer of choice in your second trimester to lock in your date.

You don’t want pregnancy to come early and ruin your photo plans!

Maternity Photo Trends Photographers Are Loving Right Now

Maternity photos are always changing as years go by. It’s important to stay on-trend to ensure you get photos that aren’t dated in a few years.

Below are some popular trends we’re seeing:

Authenticity Over Perfection

Maternity photo shoots these days are less about crazy props and over-the-top posing.

Instead mothers want emotion to shine through in their photos. A recent industry survey found that 72% of maternity clients prefer emotional connection and authenticity over perfectly posed prints.

This new trend makes sense if you think about it. Moments captured during pregnancy tell a story. They depict excitement, anticipation, and pure love for their soon to be baby.

Outdoor Sessions Using Natural Light

Mother nature gives us the best backgrounds.

Sunrise and sunset at your local park, beach, botanical garden or open field is magical. These outdoor locations also allow mothers to feel more at ease during their photoshoot.

Minimalism: Studio Photography

Not every mother-to-be is out to impress with extravagant photos.

Keep it simple with studio photography. Photographers can use beautiful lightweight blankets as backdrops. Pair with a simple white or beige flowy dress. Don’t forget about classic black and white prints.

Including Significant Others In Your Pregnancy Photos

It takes more than one person to care for a child.

Photographing siblings, husbands, wives, or even fur babies together really allows your personality to shine. Having these family portraits done will capture everyone involved in the process of your growing family.

How To Choose The Perfect Photographer To Capture Your Pregnancy

When looking for a photographer to document your pregnancy, you should always keep these tips in mind:

Do they have quality maternity photos in their portfolio? If not, move on to the next candidate.
Do they have experience photographing pregnant mothers? Knowing how to pose a mother-to-be is important.
Do they offer full service? Meaning do they help with wardrobe, printing services, etc.
What past clients are saying about their services. This is the best way to know what it’s like to work with a photographer.

Keep in mind, you get what you pay for.

Just because a photographer may be cheaper, doesn’t mean they will take stunning photos. Your maternity photos will be hanging in your home for years to come. Don’t you want them to be incredible?

Tips To Help You Have The Best Maternity Photoshoot

Acing your maternity photoshoot is simpler than you think.

Just remember these tips:

Plan Your Outfits Ahead Of Time

Choose something flowy that will highlight your baby bump. Stay away from crazy patterns that take away from the focus. And opt for form-fitting clothes that accentuate your belly.

Most photographers offer their clients access to their studio wardrobe. Take full advantage of this and try on different outfits during your session.

Communicate Your Vision With Your Photographer

If you have ideas you want to discuss with your photographer, tell them!

Bring pictures of photo shoots you love on Pinterest or Instagram. Go over any location details. Tell them what photos you MUST have. If they know what you’re looking for, they can better serve you.

Rest Up, And Hydrate

You want to feel your best for your maternity photos.

Make sure you get a good night of sleep before your shoot. Drink plenty of water the week of your session. Try to schedule your session when you’re most alert.

Relax, Have Fun, And Enjoy Every Moment

You got this mama!

Don’t try to force awkward poses. Let your photographer guide you into positions that will flatter your growing belly. Take a deep breath and have fun creating memories you’ll treasure forever.

Why Parents Should Invest In Professional Maternity Photos

Something that most parents don’t think about when expecting a child…

They become priceless photos for your child to cherish one day. My daughter absolutely loves seeing me pregnant with her in photos. She talks about how mommy was so excited to meet her little sister.

Not only will you be able to share these photos online. You’ll also want gorgeous prints to display around your home. Keep these babies locked away for years to come.

Invest in:

Prints
Photo albums
Canvas prints

One thing about pregnancy…it goes by so fast. You’re pregnant one minute and suddenly your baby is here. Hiring a professional photographer to capture your maternity journey is one thing you shouldn’t forget to do.

Wrapping It All Up

More mothers are finding value in getting professional maternity photos taken.

Understanding how important it is to document this time in your life is why so many photo businesses are popping up. Whether you’re looking to book your first maternity session or your fifth. Remember these tips to ensure you’re prepared to wow your photographer.

Here’s your maternity photo session info summarized:

Schedule your session anywhere from 28 weeks to 34 weeks pregnant
Focus on real moments, not cheesy posed photos
Do your research when hiring a photographer
Plan your wardrobe
Communicate with your photographer
Don’t forget to print your photos!

Don’t wait any longer to capture these memories on camera. Your family will thank you down the road.

Aliza

I’m Aliza, the founder of Urdu Novel Bank. I built this site because I love Urdu stories and want everyone to enjoy them. As an Urdu literature lover, I choose the best novels to share with you. Here you can find free Urdu novels in romance, mystery, thriller and more. Read online or download PDF chapters without signing up. I update the library often so you’ll always have new tales to explore. My goal is to bring Urdu literature to readers around the world.