There’s something truly magical about maternity photos. They’re not just about capturing the glow—they’re about freezing this fleeting, beautiful chapter of anticipation before your baby arrives.

As a Bay Area maternity photographer, I’ve had the joy of photographing many mothers in my studio, and I’ve learned that preparation makes all the difference. Whether you’re counting down the weeks or just starting to plan, this guide will walk you through how to prepare for your studio maternity session—from skincare to styling, mindset, and beyond.

(Checklist included at the end!)

How to Prepare for Your Studio Maternity Session (Checklist Included!) | Bay Area Maternity Photographer

Why a Studio Maternity Session Is So Worth It

A studio session offers something uniquely peaceful. You’re not battling weather, wind, or crowds—just soaking in the quiet, calm energy of an intimate space created just for you.

My studio features a clean boho aesthetic, with textured fabrics, neutral tones, and soft natural light. Every detail is designed to help you feel relaxed and radiant. Plus, I offer a client closet with beautiful dresses, wraps, and gowns that flatter every body type.

The focus is entirely on you—your strength, your story, and your connection to your baby.

When to Schedule Your Maternity Session

The best time for maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks. By then, your belly has a lovely, round shape, but you’ll still feel comfortable enough to move freely during your session.

If you’re expecting multiples or have a high-risk pregnancy, consider scheduling around 26 weeks. Babies sometimes arrive earlier than planned, and you’ll want to capture these memories before that happens!

As a Bay Area maternity photographer, I recommend reaching out as soon as you enter your second trimester to secure your preferred date. My studio calendar fills quickly, especially during spring and fall.

How to Prepare Your Skin for Photos

Your skin deserves a little love leading up to your studio maternity session. Here’s how to get that healthy, natural glow:

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water the week before your shoot—it truly shows in your skin.
• Exfoliate gently: A mild body scrub a few days before removes dry skin and helps moisturizer absorb evenly.
• Moisturize daily: Pay special attention to your belly, arms, and legs for that soft, luminous finish.
• Avoid new products: Stick with your trusted skincare routine to avoid irritation.
• Hands matter: Consider a simple manicure or neatly trimmed nails—your hands will feature in many photos!

Don’t worry about blemishes or redness. With professional lighting and subtle retouching, your skin will look effortlessly radiant.

Hair and Makeup Tips for Expecting Moms

Professional hair and makeup help you feel confident and photo-ready. I always recommend booking with an artist who understands photography lighting—soft, glowing looks tend to photograph beautifully.

A few key tips:

• Schedule early: Plan your hair and makeup for the morning of your session.
• Keep it authentic: Choose a look that feels like you, just enhanced.
• Bring a touch-up kit: Lipstick, powder, and a brush are perfect for quick refreshes.
• Simple hairstyles shine: Loose curls or softly pulled-back looks frame your face and bump naturally.

If you prefer to do your own, that’s perfectly fine too—what matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident.

Choosing What to Wear: Studio Maternity Wardrobe Guide

Your wardrobe sets the tone for your entire studio maternity session. The goal is to highlight your natural beauty and growing belly while keeping you comfortable.

When you book with me, you’ll have access to my client closet—a curated selection of neutral, flowing dresses and fabrics designed to flatter your figure and photograph beautifully.

If you’d like to bring your own pieces, here are a few outfit ideas:

• A fitted gown that hugs your bump
• A flowy dress or wrap for soft, romantic shots
• A simple bralette and robe combo for intimate portraits

Wardrobe tips from your Bay Area maternity photographer:

• Avoid loud prints or neon tones; soft, earthy hues work best.
• Bring seamless nude undergarments.
• Add simple, delicate jewelry.
• Steam dresses ahead of time to remove wrinkles.

We’ll mix and match as we go—often blending client closet pieces with your personal items for variety.

Preparing Mentally and Emotionally

Pregnancy is beautiful—but it’s also full of emotions, changes, and occasional overwhelm.
That’s why I always remind my clients to slow down and view their session as self-care.

This is your moment to celebrate your strength, your journey, and your baby.
A few ways to center yourself before your session:

• Play your favorite music on the drive to the studio.
• Eat something light and nourishing.
• Stretch or take a short walk to release tension.
• Take deep breaths—you’re doing something special for yourself.

You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do. I’ll guide you every step of the way, helping you feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.

What to Expect During Your Studio Maternity Session

A studio maternity session typically last about 60 minutes. We’ll start with wardrobe selection, then move through a variety of poses and lighting setups.

I’ll gently guide you through each movement—nothing stiff or forced. We’ll capture both soft, dreamy portraits and natural moments that feel like you.

Because we’re in a controlled indoor environment, we can take our time, adjust lighting, and make sure everything looks perfect. My studio is your safe space to celebrate this fleeting season.

Including Your Partner or Family

If you’d like, your partner or children can join part of your session. Including loved ones adds emotional depth and tells a fuller story.

A few quick tips:

• Coordinate outfits with complementary colors.
• Focus on connection—touches, laughter, eye contact.
• Keep it playful and relaxed.

Even just a few family shots can make your gallery feel complete.

The Day Before and Day Of: Final Prep Guide

The Day Before:

• Try on your outfits to ensure comfort and fit.
• Steam or iron dresses.
• Get a full night’s sleep.
• Pack a bag with makeup, water, and touch-up essentials.

The Morning Of:

• Eat something light but energizing.
• Avoid tight clothing that might leave marks on your skin.
• Apply lotion (but skip oils that could stain).
• Bring your playlist for extra comfort and good vibes.

Your Maternity Session Checklist

Here’s a handy checklist you can print or save for easy prep:

Wardrobe & Styling
☐ 2–3 outfit options or use the client closet
☐ Neutral or nude undergarments
☐ Simple jewelry
☐ Steamed and ready-to-wear outfits

Beauty & Skincare
☐ Hair and makeup appointment confirmed
☐ Manicure or clean nails
☐ Moisturizer applied (avoid heavy oils)
☐ Lip balm and touch-up kit packed

Session Day Essentials
☐ Water bottle & light snacks
☐ Music or playlist
☐ Touch-up powder & lipstick
☐ Robe for outfit changes
☐ Positive mindset 💛

Why Working with a Bay Area Maternity Photographer Matters

Your maternity photos aren’t just pictures—they’re heirlooms.

Choosing a professional Bay Area maternity photographer means working with someone who understands how to pose, light, and style expecting mothers in a flattering and empowering way.

From wardrobe guidance to creating a calm atmosphere, my goal is to help every mama feel seen and celebrated. You don’t need to worry about a thing—I’ll handle all the details so you can simply enjoy this moment.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate This Season of Motherhood

Pregnancy goes by faster than we realize. These photos are a chance to pause, breathe, and honor everything your body has done to bring new life into the world.

With a bit of preparation and a photographer who understands your vision, your maternity session can feel like an afternoon of self-love and reflection—one you’ll look back on with joy for years to come.

If you’re expecting and searching for a Bay Area maternity photographer, I’d love to help you create timeless, heartfelt images in my cozy boho-inspired studio. Check out my most recent maternity blog post to see the magic we can create! If you are looking for a maternity photographer in the Bay Area, be sure to check out my portfolio and contact me today to discuss your ideal maternity session! Also be sure to follow me on Instagram to see my latest work!