From Bump to Baby: A Journey Through Maternity and Newborn Photography
Documenting the journey from pregnancy to parenthood is a tradition for many families. It’s an opportunity that I only wish was available when I was expecting my two older children. Capturing this entire phase of a family’s life chronicles the anticipation, excitement, and love that accompany this transformative time. In this blog post, we'll explore how to best plan to capture these special moments and offer tips for creating beautiful maternity and newborn portraits no matter your preferred style (and even a tip to save some money!).
Tips for Your Maternity Photoshoot
Posing: While maternity sessions require a bit more posed direction than other lifestyle sessions of mine, I still always encourage natural, comfortable poses that capture your personality and highlight the beauty of your pregnancy. The prompts and poses emphasize the connection between the expectant parent(s), siblings (furry or human, if applicable) and the excitement about the growing baby bump.
Styling Choices: For maternity sessions, there are so many options for styling depending on your personality and the location. Many expectant mamas prefer flowy dresses or skirts (of which I have many in my Client Closet you may borrow from), but others prefer more form-fitting outfits, or even intimate maternity shots with minimal clothing. The key is to be comfortable and opt for colors or subtle patterns that complement the surroundings and other members of the family being photographed.
Location Selection: If you’re more drawn to outdoor settings, popular choices include mountains, beaches, or gardens for breathtaking maternity backdrops. Alternatively, cozy indoor locations like the nursery or the family home can create a more intimate atmosphere. No matter the location, know that I will guide both the styling and prompting/posing to complement it and keep you as comfortable as possible.
Newborn Photoshoot Essentials
Safety: I always prioritize the safety and comfort of the baby at all times. If props are used such as a bassinet or basket, I make sure to use soft, comfortable support and never force babies or mamas into unnatural or uncomfortable positions.
Timing: I suggest scheduling newborn sessions within the first two weeks of life when babies are sleepier. The session is completely run by the baby, so we plan for plenty of breaks for feeding, changing, and soothing throughout the session.
Lighting and Setup: No matter the lighting in your home (if choosing an in-home lifestyle newborn session), I can make it work by utilizing soft, diffused natural light from a window or creating my own with a flash for a gentle, flattering light. Together, we’ll create a warm and cozy environment with blankets, wraps, and props that add storytelling details to your newborn photoshoot.
How to Save Money on Your Maternity and Newborn Photoshoot
Combined Sessions: I offer a Motherhood Collection that is a discounted package for clients who book both their maternity and newborn photography sessions at once. This collection saves you over $200. This combination collection helps to capture the entire transformative journey of welcoming a new baby in to the family, and if you choose the same location for both sessions, the galleries will feel even more cohesive.
Additional Services: Many of my Motherhood Collection clients choose to print their photos to display in their homes to remind them of this special time as their child(ren) grow(s). This package also includes access to a professional print lab that you can order from without ever leaving your digital gallery, and I include a 20% print discount.
Client Testimonial
“Kelly has photographed both of my pregnancies, my extended family and my newborns. Each time she goes above and beyond to make the shoot personal and always has creative ideas to get the perfect shot. I love working with Kelly because she is so kind and really knows how to make you feel beautiful in front of the camera. The photos and memories Kelly has created for me and my family are ones that will last forever. I am so grateful to say she is ‘my family’s photographer.’” - Alainna D.
Preserving the journey from bump to baby through maternity and newborn photography is an invaluable investment in your family’s memories. From the anticipation of pregnancy to the tender moments of early parenthood, these images serve as timeless reminders of the love and connection that define a family during this exciting time in your lives.
If you’re ready to book your Maternity, Newborn or Motherhood Collection, get in touch using the button below. I can’t wait to start planning with you!