Maternity shoots are far more than just photos. They celebrate a fleeting moment in life, a time filled with anticipation, change, and deep emotional significance. Yet it’s not uncommon for some men to feel hesitant. Whether it feels awkward, unnecessary, or simply outside their comfort zone, that hesitation is understandable. Still, choosing to show up can mean far more to their partner than they might realize.

Pregnancy is a profound physical and emotional experience. A woman’s body changes dramatically to nurture new life, accompanied by fatigue, pain, discomfort, and vulnerability. Beyond the physical, there is also a mental and emotional weight—preparing for parenthood, adjusting to a new identity, and carrying the responsibility of nurturing a baby even before birth. This requires a huge amount of strength, dedication and effort.

In comparison, attending a maternity shoot is a relatively small effort. A few hours of time, some patience, and a willingness to step in front of a camera—that’s it. Yet this is where the imbalance becomes clear: what feels minor to one partner can be deeply meaningful to the other. By being present, a man isn’t just agreeing to photos; he is saying, “I’m in this with you.”

For many women, a maternity shoot is not about vanity. It’s about feeling seen and appreciated at a time when their body may feel unfamiliar. Having their partner beside them reinforces that they are valued, loved, and supported—not despite the changes, but because of them. These images become lasting reminders of togetherness, teamwork, and shared excitement before life changes forever.

Support doesn’t always require grand gestures. Often, it is found in quiet moments of showing up, even when inconvenient or uncomfortable. A maternity shoot is one of those moments. Choosing to participate sends a clear message: the relationship and the journey into parenthood are worth stepping outside your comfort zone.

Becoming a parent is a shared responsibility, even if the physical experience of pregnancy isn’t equal. When men stand beside their partner during milestones like a maternity shoot, they help balance that difference with empathy and action. It’s a small investment of time that yields lasting emotional value—for their partner, for themselves, and for the family they are building together.

Shared memories have lasting power. Children may grow up seeing these images, witnessing proof that both parents were present from the very beginning. That presence matters. It tells a story of involvement, respect, and care long before words ever can.

Showing up matters. Often, it’s the simplest acts of support that are remembered the longest. A maternity shoot is more than a photoshoot—it’s a visible expression of love, appreciation, and shared excitement for the new life to come.

I must admit, I have a personal bias when it comes to the topic of maternity photography. Capturing the essence of this extraordinary time brings me so much joy. It is a privilege to witness and document this unique period, where every frame tells a story of hope, joy, and the remarkable transformations that occur in every moment in these nine months of pregnancy. So, I focus my business on what I enjoy doing.

But let’s acknowledge that upfront and then set it aside as we delve into the heart of the matter.  🙂

Think back to the times you’ve asked your parents about their experiences during their pregnancy with you. It’s likely that this has come up in conversation at least once, and now that you’re expecting, those inquiries may have intensified. The reason behind your curiosity is simple: it’s about you and your unique life journey, a story that can only be shared through the voices of those who lived it.

I vividly recall my own childhood curiosity about my mother’s pregnancy with me. As a child, I was eager to piece together the fragments of my own story, even though maternity photos were not a common practice back then. Yet, isn’t it true that stories become infinitely richer when accompanied by images? Photographs have a magical way of capturing moments, allowing us to relive experiences and emotions that words alone may fail to convey. They serve as visual anchors, grounding our memories in a tangible form that can be cherished for generations.

Stories are the threads that weave our connections, and we find ourselves even more engaged when those narratives resonate with our own lives. Who wouldn’t be invested in their personal journey? Your unborn child will undoubtedly yearn to learn about the chapters of their life that they cannot recall. Maternity photos offer a beautiful opportunity to enrich those stories, adding depth and vibrancy to the memories you will share. These images will not only provide comfort and joy during snuggles but will also become treasured keepsakes for your child as they go on their own journey into parenthood. So, while you have the chance, seize the moment to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Maternity photography serves as a beautiful reminder of the strength and grace that you undergo during this transformative time. A recent client shared her experience, noting that pregnancy can often leave one feeling less beautiful. However, taking the time to dress up and capture those fleeting moments can be incredibly empowering. It’s essential to recognize that you are radiant, and your journey into motherhood is a remarkable testament to your beauty. These photographs not only celebrate your physical appearance but also unite the profound emotional and spiritual changes you are undergoing.

The journey of life and parenthood can be overwhelming, sometimes overshadowing the incredible woman you are. Amidst the challenges and demands of motherhood, it’s easy to lose sight of your own worth and beauty. Maternity photos offer a chance to pause and reflect on the extraordinary strength you possess. They serve as a visual art piece of your resilience and the love that is blossoming within you.

Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey, transforming your body in ways you never imagined. Those beloved jeans have been tucked away for months, and some days, simply managing to brush your hair before noon feels like a victory. Yet, amidst the chaos, there’s a powerful truth every expectant mother should embrace: You are undeniably beautiful. This beauty transcends the superficial, rooted in the strength, love, and miracle of bringing new life into the world. Sometimes, it takes stepping in front of a camera and viewing yourself through another’s perspective to truly appreciate the incredible person you are.

The transformation of a woman’s body during pregnancy is nothing short of miraculous. Research highlights the remarkable changes that occur, from shifts in our DNA to the unique way we move, often characterised by the iconic “pregnant waddle.” This profound metamorphosis is, in my view, is one of the main reasons to capture maternity photos.

In just nine months, you are part of a timeless process, creating new life that is entirely unique to this world. The journey of bringing a child into existence is both ancient and refreshingly new, filled with the promise of what this little one will contribute to our lives. Despite the countless births that have occurred throughout history, the miracle of life remains an awe-inspiring event.

This is why maternity photos are so important—they serve as a testament to the hope and joy your baby’s arrival brings. Don’t let the discomforts of pregnancy overshadow this incredible experience. Instead, let’s focus on celebrating the miracle you are part of, capturing the beauty and anticipation of this special time in the studio.

Pregnancy marks a significant transformation in a woman’s life, often extending its impact to her partner and family as well. This period is characterized by profound changes as the expectant mother prepares to embrace her new identity.

The journey of pregnancy is filled with a mix of emotions, ranging from joy and anticipation to anxiety and uncertainty. It is essential to recognize and honor this important moment, as it represents not just the arrival of a new life, but also the evolution of relationships and roles within the family unit. Celebrating pregnancy is a deeply personal experience, unique to each individual and their circumstances. What truly matters is that the expectant mother feels cherished and supported throughout this journey. Creating an environment that provides comfort and joy can make this time even more special. Whether through intimate gatherings with loved ones or quiet moments of reflection, the celebration can take many forms. The key is to ensure that the mother-to-be feels valued and connected, allowing her to fully embrace the changes happening within her.

One meaningful way to remember this fleeting yet significant time is by capturing the beauty of the growing bump through professional photography. These images serve as lasting memories, showing the emotions and milestones of pregnancy. A skilled photographer can highlight the unique glow of motherhood, creating stunning portraits that reflect the joy and anticipation of welcoming a new life. As the months pass and the baby arrives, these photographs will become cherished keepsakes, reminding the family of the love and excitement that surrounded this transformative time.

Maternity photos are a celebration of you and the incredible journey you’re on. They serve as a powerful reminder that despite the challenges and changes of the past several months, you are truly remarkable. You are nurturing a new life, which is nothing short of miraculous!

When it comes to selecting the perfect outfit(s) for your maternity photo session, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Here are my top tips for your moment to shine.

Before picking out dresses or fabrics it is good to know what kind of vibe are you going for? It can be a mixture of styles or just one style, all is possible.

Choosing Your Look(s)

**Goddess** If you love flowing gowns, soft pastels, and a dreamy aesthetic, choose light, airy fabrics that catch the wind beautifully. Think flowing dresses that enhance your natural glow.

**Elegance** For the mamas who prefer a sleek and contemporary look, choose body-hugging dresses. These options can provide a chic, high-fashion vibe that emphasizes your gorgeous curves.

**Casual** If comfort is your priority, consider easy-going outfits like a cozy bralette paired with a knit cardigan. This laid-back style will create intimate and relaxed shots that capture your authenticity.

While I do have a range of maternity dresses and outfits available, discussing your preferences ahead of the shooting day ensures I have or you need to organise what you envision.

• Bodysuit that shows of your belly
• A classic Button Down Shirt (almost all of us have one in our closets. Or you could also use one from your partner)
• Demin (if you can still fit into your non-maternity jeans – unbuttoned of course!)
• A maternity dress/gown
• A non-maternity outfit that still fits (dresses, gowns, skirts, tops, blouses, cardigan, …)
• Cotton sports bra, or a crop top
• different bras

Wear nude coloured undergarments (that fits your skin tone) such as a strapsless bra with cups and support (no pasty/stick) and a nude coloured seamless thong/panty. Nude underwear works best as it remains invisible under dark, white, and sheer fabrics.

Brown, beige, black and white with or without lace underwear can also complement specific outfits beautifully.

Please check my Blog about bras, there are lots of useful general information about it.

If you’re considering purchasing a new outfit for your Maternity Shoot, there are several options to explore. You could look into online retailers that specialize in maternity dresses or versatile clothing suitable for pregnancy. Keep in mind that some stores suggested below are based overseas, which could affect shipping cost and delivery time to Australia. Ensure that your chosen outfit arrives well before the shoot day to avoid any last-minute stress.

Online Shops Australia

Angel Maternity

The Boho Shed

The Pure Boho

Coven and Co

Daughters of India

Online Shops International

Baltic Born

Etsy

ZeBuBeYou

Pink Blush

Aliexpress

Club London

• Avoid wearing thin, closely spaced stripes or other small patterns, as they can create a ‘moire’ effect in photographs.
• Small plaid or buffalo patterns, particularly in high-contrast colours, can also appear strange in images.
• Avoid large logos, cartoon designs, or text on clothing – its distracting, unless you’re deliberately aiming for it.
• Avoid neon colours as they can cast unflattering hues on the skin, so it’s best to skip them.
• Not ironed clothes – even if the clothes don’t look too “bad” at home, the studio light will emphasize every wrinkle
• Here are some No-Go examples: here
• Avoid spray tan (cameras tend to capture red and orange much more vividly than the human eye sees them in real life. As a result, the final images often reveal a skin tone that appears less natural, even if the tan looks appealing in person. To achieve the most flattering and realistic results in images, I suggest keep your natural skin tone instead of choosing a tan).
• Nursing bras: They are comfortable, but please leave them at home
• A bra that is too small or doesn’t fit your size anymore, they will squeeze and disort your breasts instead of letting them look flattering
• Mommy jeans with a jersey waistband – its best to wear regular jeans and leave them open under the belly
• Hipster panties under a dress – make your hips look bigger and your legs look shorter