Best Styles for Maternity Photos

Who said there’s only one style for a maternity shoot? You’ve got options! No two pregnancies are exactly the same, and neither are my maternity photoshoots. We all have different stories, and I’d love to help you photograph yours. I offer customized sessions that are both authentic and unique. You deserve images that make you feel beautiful, comfortable, and confident. Tell me your vision for maternity portraits, and we’ll plan the perfect setting and style to match. Connect with me here, and tell me what you have in mind.

Not quite sure what you want? As inspiration, here are of my most popular maternity portrait styles:

Glamorous Outdoor Session

Even outdoor sessions vary quite a bit. Leave it to Mother Nature to provide the most stunning backdrops. If you want to get some fresh air during your maternity session – while looking fabulous in one of my designer dresses – try one of these locations for your maternity photos:

Forest – Thankfully, The Woodlands/North Houston has some of the most beautiful forests in the state! We can hop over to one of my secret spots for an enchanted woodsy vibe. This is also a great option if you want outdoor photos during the summer since the trees offer plenty of shade. I’ve always been in love with maternity photos that show the soft sunlight peeking through the trees.

Field – Love the look of tall grasses and warm, natural tones? Me too! Maternity photos in lush summer meadows and golden fields have always been some of my favorites. If you have another little one tagging along with you, field sessions are ideal because they have a safe space to explore while you take photos.

Downtown – Get a contemporary, urban look with an outdoor downtown shoot. In The Woodlands, Market Street and The Waterway are small enough to navigate easily and safely while pregnant. Both locations offer quite a few fun and diverse backdrops, such as manicured gardens, water features, and charming storefronts. On the other hand, Downtown Conroe lends itself to a more vintage, rustic look.

Luxurious Milk Bath Session

Feel like relaxing in the tub? I don’t blame you! Check out these gorgeous milk bath sessions. Pair it with a delicate lace wrap or robe, like these from Etsy, Shein, Nordstrom. Add some fresh florals, and you’re floating in luxury. Plus, milk baths offer lots of nourishing skin benefits. 

Sensitive or allergic to cow’s milk? No worries! We can use milk alternatives such as coconut, almond, soy, rice, oat, or goat’s milk. You could also use oatmeal or colored water. You can also find pre-made bath mixes like this one by West Elm. Ideally, you want to use milk with a higher fat content (like whole milk or powdered milk) for full skin nourishing and calming benefits.

Intimate Maternity Boudoir Session

Don’t want to do the milk bath, but still want to show off a little skin and your superwoman body that’s growing your sweet baby? Feature your bump with stunning silhouette portraits. You can — and should! — feel sexy during pregnancy! I guarantee you’ll end your session feeling confident and proud of the beautiful skin you’re in – the same skin that’s miraculously providing a safe home for your growing child. That’s certainly something to celebrate!

Light & Airy Studio or Glasshouse Session

For a clean and modern studio look, schedule a light and airy session at The Oak Atelier, an exclusive photography venue nestled on five wooded acres. The Oak Atelier features three separate studio rooms and a naturally-lit glasshouse surrounded by trees. It’s gorgeous, private, and full of natural light. I’m in love with the fresh white paint complemented by the surrounding greenery – definitely not your average studio. The Oak Atelier elevated the look even more with handcrafted furniture that we can use as well. I think you’ll love it as much as I do.

Sweet & Romantic Couple’s Maternity Session

After choosing your location, decide who you want to include in your maternity photos. Of course, we’ll get a few individual shots, but you can also bring along your other half. Pregnancy may feel like years as you anxiously await your baby’s grand debut; however, it goes faster than you think. Take a break from the preparations and focus on your love for each other and the excitement of pregnancy. It would be an honor to help you capture the essence of pregnancy and help you celebrate this huge milestone for your family.

Fairytale Mother-Daughter or Adventurous Mother-Son Session

If you’re expecting your second, I’m personally familiar with the mix of emotions you may be feeling: the excitement that comes with pregnancy and the desire to soak up every single moment with your first baby. Let’s make your session include both. I can’t help but tear up a little every time I do a mother-daughter or mother-son maternity session. They’re just so stinkin’ sweet! Oh, those chubby hands gently holding onto the growing bump. Or those precious lips kissing their hidden baby brother or sister. Sometimes, we’ll even catch a photo of the soon-to-be big sibling feeling a wiggle or kick. There’s nothing sweeter. Cherish this time, Mama.

Full Family Maternity Session

Maybe you already have a few cuties underfoot and want to celebrate this time as a family. Bring along the crew for updated family portraits and maternity photos all in one! Your other kiddos will be thrilled to be part of this special time. This is a great way to help younger children feel excited and included during these big changes.

Kelley Harris of Dazzling Diva Photography is a family portrait photographer based in North Houston. Learn more about Kelley here! Her services include maternity, newborn, first birthday & cake smashes, child, family, and senior portrait photography. View her most recent work here. Contact Kelley here to get started planning your session!