The Importance of Maternity Family Photos

No matter if it is your first, second or third baby, your pregnancy should be documented. This is such a special time and one that goes by so quickly. It is a milestone that you will want to remember in years to come. Each stage of your life with your children is different and that is why it is so important to have photos that document that evolution and development of your family. I know that it can feel challenging to schedule a maternity family session with young children, but I will make the process simple for you an you will even have tons of fun while having your family photos captured.

Bring Your Family Along for Your Pregnancy Photo Session

A maternity session should include all of your members of your family. This moment is special for all of you and you want pictures that capture and preserve the energy and excitement of expecting a new baby in your family. You also want to preserve your memories of the dynamic of your family at this stage in life.

Photos that Capture Your Family’s Bond and Love

If you have toddler aged children, don’t worry about getting them to sit still for photos. My goal for your session is not to capture rigid images, but rather capture you interacting and loving on your children. I will position you in flattering light in a beautiful backdrop and give you prompts that allow the magic to unfold. It is all about capturing those sweet moments between you and your family.

Don’t be Afraid to Let Loose and Have Some Fun with your Family

I want you to be silly and play games with your children. It is through that interaction that I am able to capture your authentic energy as a family. It also allows me to capture natural and relaxed smiles instead of forced artificial ones. Even though I capture some traditional images, these are the photos you will hang on your walls and cherish the most.

Moms, Cuddle up With Your Little Ones

I love capturing photos of moms cuddling up with their babies. I know how precious these images will be years from now when your kids are grown. These photos will remind you of the sweet and precious time in life with them. If the kids are shy or resistant to having their photos taken, I love to start the session with images of babies in moms arms. It makes the children feel safe and tends to elicit some beautiful and emotive imagery.

Don’t Look at the Camera

It is a natural inclination to look at the camera, but I encourage you to avoid doing so unless I direct you to look at me. I capture the traditional all eyes on camera images for you, but the pictures that mean the most are those that have connection. I want you to be connected with your family and not me, which is why I often will tell you to look at a family member or elsewhere. It creates more intimate and natural photos.

Let the Kids Run Free

I like to choose locations that allow for exploration for the kids. Kids will often need breaks during a photo session, so I allow them to run free and have some fun. Those “breaks” allow me to capture images that truly capture the essence of childhood and this playful stage in life.

Solo Pregnancy Photos of Mom

When the children need a break, that is when I take a moment to capture a few solo portraits of the expecting mom. Maternity photos are really important to capture. Pregnant women are simply stunning and I want you to have images that show how beautiful you are. So, don’t be shy. Let me take a few photos of you while your children run and play with dad.

Don’t be Afraid to Get Sandy, Dirty, and Messy

At the very end of the session, I encourage you to really let loose and have fun. If we are at the beach, stand along the water and let the waves crash at your feet. Sit in the sand with your kids and play in the sand. These images have such an organic and earthy feel to them and they elicit fun and love. I always advise that you pack a change of clothes for the end of the session, that way everyone is nice and comfy on the ride home.

If you are interested in a family or maternity session, contact me.