Pregnancy is such a special time in life, and there’s something so magical about capturing those moments just before your little one arrives. Whether it’s your first baby or another beautiful addition to the family, a maternity photoshoot is the perfect way to celebrate this chapter. At Dandelion Studio, we know how important it is for you to feel comfortable and confident during your session, so here are some simple tips to help you prepare and make the most of your maternity photoshoot.

1. Timing: When’s the Best Time for Maternity Photos?

The timing of your shoot can make all the difference when it comes to getting those gorgeous bump shots. For most mums, the sweet spot is somewhere between 28-36 weeks. By then, your bump will have that perfect round shape, but you’ll still feel relatively comfortable. Every pregnancy is different though, so it’s all about what feels right for you. If you’re feeling great a little earlier or want to wait until later, go with what suits you best—there’s no right or wrong time.

Top Tip: If you’re carrying multiples, you might want to schedule the session a little earlier, as your bump will likely be more prominent sooner.

2. What to Wear: Outfits That Flatter the Bump

One of the biggest questions mums ask is, “What should I wear?” The good news is, there’s no need to stress about it—simple, comfy outfits are often the most flattering. Flowing dresses can add a dreamy, romantic vibe to your photos, while body-hugging clothes will show off the shape of your bump beautifully. Solid colours usually work best, as they won’t distract from the main focus—you and your bump.

If your partner or other children will be joining the shoot, try to coordinate outfits without being too matchy-matchy. Stick to a similar colour palette, but let everyone’s personality shine through.

Pro Tip: Add personal touches with accessories like light jewellery or even a meaningful prop, like an ultrasound photo or a pair of tiny baby shoes.

3. Hair & Makeup: Natural and Effortless

You’ll want to look and feel your best during the shoot, but there’s no need to go overboard with hair and makeup. A natural, fresh-faced look tends to photograph beautifully, and a little enhancement of your everyday makeup can make a big difference. Loose waves, a soft updo, or even just wearing your hair down are all great options—whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident.

If you fancy treating yourself, you could book in with a professional makeup artist to add a touch of pampering to the day. Emma’s sister, Alex, is a fantastic makeup artist—check out her work on Instagram @alxmakeupni. Or, of course, you can always embrace that natural pregnancy glow!

4. Choosing the Right Location: Studio vs. Outdoor

The location of your photoshoot can set the tone for your photos, so it’s important to choose one that feels right for you. A studio session, like the ones at Dandelion Studio, offers a relaxed, comfortable environment where everything is controlled—lighting, temperature, and mood. It’s perfect if you want a cosy, intimate feel.

For those who love nature, an outdoor shoot can be a wonderful way to add a bit of magic. The natural light during golden hour (just before sunset) creates a warm, soft glow that’s hard to beat. Think about what kind of setting speaks to you—whether it’s a lush green field, a favourite park, or even your own garden!

5. Relaxing and Being in the Moment

It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous before your maternity shoot, but trust me, the most important thing is to relax and enjoy the experience. I’ll guide you through natural, flattering poses and make sure we capture all those sweet, candid moments. Don’t worry about feeling stiff or awkward—I’ve worked with plenty of mums-to-be and will help you feel at ease throughout the session.

Remember, this is all about celebrating your body and the amazing work it’s doing, so take a deep breath, trust the process, and have fun with it.

6. Don’t Forget the Little Details

A few small touches can make all the difference when it comes to feeling your best in front of the camera. Make sure to hydrate well before the session and bring a light snack, especially if we’re doing an outdoor shoot. You’ll feel better and more energised, which will show in the photos.

Treat yourself to a bit of pampering the day before—moisturising, getting your nails done, or even just taking some time to relax can boost your confidence. If you have any personal items you’d like to include in the shoot, such as baby shoes, an ultrasound photo, or a favourite blanket, feel free to bring them along. Those little touches can add an extra layer of meaning to the photos.

Our Final Thoughts

The most important thing to remember is that your maternity photoshoot should be a fun and relaxed experience, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to make everything perfect. The magic of a maternity session lies in the joy and anticipation of this moment, and I’m here to help capture that in a way that feels natural to you.

If you’re ready to book your maternity session or have any questions, just give me a shout! At Dandelion Studio, I’m all about creating beautiful, timeless memories for you and your growing family.