20 Unique Maternity Photo Shoot Ideas

Capture the beauty and essence of your pregnancy with these 20 unique maternity photo shoot ideas. Expectant mothers eagerly await the arrival of their little ones, and it is your goal as a photographer to seize these magical moments in a way that truly reflects the beauty of pregnancy. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a solo shoot or a session that captures the mother with their partner, we’ve got you covered. From natural outdoor settings to creative indoor setups, we present a collection of inspiring maternity photoshoot ideas to help photographers create stunning images that will be cherished for a lifetime. 

Nic White Photography

Maternity photo shoots are a beautiful way to capture the excitement and anticipation of pregnancy. One way to connect with your clients to help plan the perfect session is using a client questionnaire. You can get an idea of what they are envisioning for their maternity photo shoot. Using a client questionnaire can help you plan your session and ensure you are meeting your client’s needs. 

With Iris Works, you can easily send questionnaires to you clients automatically before their session to gather details like who is participating, preferred locations, and even what they plan to do with the final images. Not sure what questions to ask? Grab our free maternity session questionnaire!

Now let’s dive into some of maternity photo shoot ideas!

20 Unique Maternity Photo Shoot Ideas for a Stunning Visual Effect

1. Silhouette Shots

Silhouette shots are a simple yet creative way to capture the beauty of pregnancy. This technique uses lighting and angles to create stunning visuals of an expecting mother’s bump from a profile view. The effect is especially striking when taken outdoors during sunset or with a colorful backdrop.

To achieve this look, have the expectant mother stand sideways with one leg crossed over the other. Position her so that she is facing away from the camera towards a brightly lit background, such as the sun setting behind her or a colorful sky. The resulting image will showcase her beautiful silhouette and create a sense of awe-inspiring wonderment for years to come.

Tiffany Bergamino Photography

2. Belly Painting

Belly painting is a creative and fun way to capture a growing bump during pregnancy. It’s also an opportunity to add some unique elements to a maternity photoshoot that can make for stunning visuals. Here are two simple yet effective ideas for belly painting:

• Floral base:
  One of the most popular designs for belly paintings is floral motifs. You can choose from different types of flowers and leaves, or even create your own design using them as inspiration.

• Rainbow effect:
  Another idea is painting a rainbow on your baby bump, which can result in stunning visuals when combined with various poses and angles.

Both options allow you to showcase your creativity while adding a visually appealing element to your maternity photography.

3. In the Water

Capturing the beauty of a pregnancy through water photography can create stunning and unique images. Consider experimenting with different angles, such as having the mother-to-be cross her legs or arms to add dimension and movement to the shot. Utilizing floral props or incorporating pets can also add a cute and creative touch to the photoshoot. Whether indoors in a bathtub, outdoors in a garden, or at an actual beach location, playing with lighting effects will help achieve that desired visual effect for your maternity shoot.

4. Balloon-Filled Fun

Balloon-Filled Fun is a simple and creative way to add an extra pop of color and excitement to your maternity photo shoot. This unique prop can be used indoors or outdoors, in a garden or botanical setting, with a pet or older children, as a couple or solo. The options are endless! Have fun playing around with different sized balloons and colors that complement the outfit you’re wearing. Try having your client cross their legs for some interesting angles, holding the balloons at different heights for visual effect, or even incorporating a rainbow balloon arch as the base of your photo shoot.

For sibling shots, try having the older child hold up one end of the balloon string while you hold onto it on the other side with the mom’s baby bump in between. Or have them stand behind the mom holding onto multiple strings for a cute and playful effect. Adding floral accents such as flower crowns or floral arrangements can also enhance this look and create stunning images that capture this special moment in time.

5. Aerial Shots

Aerial shots can add a unique and stunning visual effect to your maternity photoshoots. Consider taking advantage of the outdoors by using garden or nature-inspired settings as your base. Use botanical elements such as floral arrangements or flower crowns to add a cute and creative touch to your photos.

To capture the perfect aerial shot, experiment with different angles and poses, including crossed legs or your client lying on their back with their bump exposed. If they have an older child or pet that they want to include in the shoot, consider having them interact with you from afar for a visually interesting effect. Overall, aerial shots offer a beautiful way to showcase both the beauty of pregnancy and the surrounding environment in one image.

Alex Gale Photography

7. Nature-Inspired

Nature-inspired maternity photo shoots provide a simple and creative way to capture stunning visual effects. Using nature as a base, you can create unique poses that showcase the beauty of pregnancy. For example, incorporating floral elements such as flower crowns or botanical gardens can add an outdoorsy effect to your photoshoot.

You don’t always have to venture outside for nature-inspired photoshoots; indoors with crossed angles and natural light can also create beautiful effects. Including pets or older siblings in your shots also adds a cute and heartwarming sense of family inclusion. By using props like rainbow umbrellas or wooden blocks spelling out “baby,” you can make sure the focus stays on the growing bump while still creating memorable visuals that will last a lifetime.

Holly Marie Photogaphy

8. Black and White

Black and white photos can add a timeless and classic effect to your maternity photo shoot. Keep it simple with elegant poses that highlight your client’s baby bump, or get creative with props like a floral crown or an older sibling’s teddy bear. Using contrasting angles and crossed lines can also enhance the visual impact of black and white photography.

If you’re looking for stunning outdoor shots, consider taking photos in a garden or other botanical setting. A pet can be a cute addition to black and white maternity photoshoots as well, adding an extra element of warmth to the scene. Whatever approach you take, using black and white as your base color scheme will give your images a sense of sophistication while highlighting all the beauty of pregnancy.

9. Baby Shoes or Accessories

When it comes to maternity photo shoots, incorporating baby shoes or accessories can add a cute and creative touch. Simple ideas like positioning tiny booties on the pregnant belly or using a prop such as a floral headband can make for stunning visual effects. For those looking to showcase their love for pets, including them in photos with adorable pet-themed onesies is sure to melt hearts. Older siblings can also get involved by holding up ultrasound images or crossing arms over the bump in sweet poses. Whether indoors or outdoors, these unique maternity photo shoot ideas will capture this special time in a way that is both beautiful and memorable.

10. Use Props

A simple prop can add a creative and unique effect to your maternity photoshoot. A floral crown, a cute pet or an older child’s crossed arms can all make stunning visual angles for your shoot. For an outdoorsy feel, take advantage of the garden or botanical surroundings by incorporating natural elements such as flowers or leaves into your poses. Indoor shots also work well with props like baby shoes, blankets and nursery items that create an emotional sense of preparation for the newest family member’s arrival. Use props to enhance the overall aesthetic of your shoot and capture unforgettable moments during this special time in your client’s life.

11. Sibling Love

Sibling Love is a beautiful thing to capture in a maternity photo shoot. Including older brothers and sisters in the photos creates stunning visuals that will be cherished for years to come. The key is to create poses and use props that depict the love between siblings while highlighting the bump.

Here are some ideas for sibling love poses and props:

• Siblings with hands crossed over mom’s belly

• Older sibling kissing or hugging mom’s belly

• Family hug around mom’s belly

• Sibling holding baby shoes or a toy

• Little ones sitting next to mom on a chair, bench or outdoors on grassy area

• Maternity gown flow effect with siblings running around

These simple yet creative ideas can help you achieve unique shots of your client’s family during this special time. With these tips, they’ll have amazing memories of their pregnancy journey that showcase not only their growing bump but also the bond between siblings.

Megan Nicole Photography

12. Boudoir Style

A boudoir-style maternity photoshoot can capture the beauty and sensuality of pregnancy. This style is about celebrating the female form in a more intimate and romantic way, with soft lighting to highlight curves and textures. Here are some simple yet creative ideas for incorporating this style into your maternity shoot:

• Use sheer fabrics or lingerie to show off the bump

• Pose on a chaise lounge or bed draped in delicate fabrics

• Experiment with different angles, such as crossing legs while lying down

• Incorporate flowers or botanicals for a feminine touch

Whether your clients want something cute and playful or more sultry, there’s no shortage of ways to make their boudoir-style maternity shoot unique and stunning.

13. Vintage Flair

Vintage flair adds a unique sense of style to maternity photoshoots. You can achieve this look with simple and creative ideas like incorporating old props or dressing up in an older-style dress. For outdoors, consider using a garden as the base for your shoot. Floral arrangements and botanical angles will add stunning visual effects to your photos. Siblings or pets can also be crossed into the vintage-themed photoshoot for extra cuteness factor!

14. Baby Bump Progression

Capturing the journey of pregnancy through maternity photoshoots is becoming increasingly popular among expecting parents. One creative and simple idea to showcase the progression of your client’s baby bump throughout pregnancy is by posing in the same location, with crossed arms, at different angles, and wearing a base outfit such as black leggings and a white tank top. This allows for a stunning visual effect that showcases not only their growing bump but also their sense of style. Adding unique props or incorporating floral arrangements can elevate this type of photoshoot even further. Another cute addition could be including an older sibling or pet in some shots to capture their excitement for the new arrival in the family.

15. Reflection Shots

15. Reflection Shots

Reflection shots can add a unique and creative sense to your maternity photoshoot. Whether you choose to use a mirror, water, or any other reflective surface, this type of shot can capture the beauty of both the bump and its surroundings. Here are some ideas for reflection shots:

• Mirror image:
• Use a full-length mirror as the base for your photo shoot.

• Inverted reflection:
• Flip the image upside down in post-processing for an eye-catching effect.

• Water reflection:
• Take advantage of calm water surfaces like lakes or pools.

• Glass or windows:
• Utilize architectural features like clear glass walls or large windows.

By using these types of reflections, you can create stunning visual effects that will be sure to impress. Make sure that light is used effectively in order to highlight angles and poses that make sense with each particular setting.

16. Flower Crown

Flower crowns are a simple and creative prop to add to your maternity photoshoot ideas. They bring a touch of nature and botanical beauty to the visuals, while also highlighting the maternal sense of nurturing. A floral crown can be paired with any type of outfit or angle, whether you opt for an outdoors garden setting or an indoors rainbow-themed nursery backdrop. It’s also a perfect opportunity for couples and pet owners alike to incorporate their furry friends into the photo shoot, as dogs and cats can look especially cute with flower garlands around their necks or crossed between their paws.

For older siblings looking to get involved in the fun, consider making them smaller versions of flower crowns that match mom’s design. This creates a cohesive effect that ties all family members together visually while still showcasing each individual personality through different angles and poses. Overall, adding floral elements such as flower crowns takes your maternity photography up a notch by infusing it with natural beauty, creativity, and stunning visual effects that will leave your client with timeless memories for years to come.

17. Maternity Gown Flow

Maternity gowns are a popular choice for maternity photo shoots, as they create a flowing and elegant effect that highlights the bump. There are numerous ways to incorporate this style into your photoshoot, whether you opt for simple or creative poses. Using a floral or botanical backdrop can add an extra sense of beauty and nature to your photos, while using angles and crossed legs can showcase the gown’s unique design. Don’t be afraid to take your shoot outdoors in a garden or natural setting for stunning visual effects, or use bright pops of color like rainbow hues to make the gown stand out even more.

Pure Light Photography

18. Dressed Up

Dressing up for a maternity photo shoot can add an elegant touch to your pictures. Choose a unique dress that flatters your client’s bump and gives you the perfect silhouette shot. Adding floral or botanical elements as props creates stunning visuals, especially if taken outdoors in a garden setting.

For older siblings or pets, consider including them in the photoshoot by dressing them up in coordinating outfits. Simple poses such as crossed arms or holding hands create a sense of unity within the family portrait. For couples, try incorporating creative angles or using rainbow effects for an added pop of color to make your photos stand out. Whatever style you choose, being dressed up adds an extra level of sophistication to your maternity photography session.

19. Baby Gets Involved

Involving your client’s older child or pet in a maternity photoshoot can be a creative and cute way to capture the excitement of an expanding family. Here are some simple ideas for incorporating little ones:

• Have them hold up a sign with their future sibling’s name or due date.

• Let them kiss or hug mom’s baby bump while standing on either side of them.

• Use baby shoes as props, with one pair being mom’s and another pair being theirs.

• Capture the moment when they feel the baby kick by placing their hand on mom’s belly.

Including siblings in maternity shoots is not only adorable but also creates stunning visual effects that will be cherished forever.

20. The Family Portrait

The family portrait is a classic maternity photo shoot idea that never goes out of style. It’s the perfect way to capture the love and excitement of a growing family as they prepare for their new arrival. There are many creative ways to approach this type of photoshoot, whether you want to keep it simple or add some unique props and poses.

One option is to take the photo outdoors in a garden or botanical setting, using natural angles and lighting for a stunning visual effect. Another idea is to incorporate older children or pets into the shot, crossing arms and cuddling up close for a cute and heartwarming effect. You could also try dressing up in coordinating outfits or using floral crowns as an added touch of elegance. Whatever direction you choose, remember that the key sense you want to convey is warmth and connection between all members in a beautiful family portrait!

Valerie Clement Photography

Hope you enjoyed these ideas and find some inspiration! Let us  know what other maternity photo shoot ideas you have in the comments!