How to get Beautiful Bump and Baby photos | A guide for moms-to-be
Beautiful Maternity and Newborn photos in Studio
Bump and baby photos capture some of life’s most cherished milestones: the journey of pregnancy and the first days of a newborn’s life. From choosing the right lighting to selecting comfortable poses and cozy props, here’s a comprehensive guide to creating beautiful, heartfelt bump and baby photos in studio settings.
This Beautiful bump and baby photos in-studio session with Tanna, Clayton and finally welcoming baby Makennais at a few days old is the perfect example of what to expect from this type of photoshoot. Pregnancy is an emotional time for parents , and getting used to this new little bundle of joy can also take some time. But in contrast and when you look back, these times do go by in a flash as there is so much going on, and its difficult to always remember them well. That is why we recommend documenting them. So here are some tips to help you prepare in advance how you can do this.
Why have both maternity and newborn photos done?
Apart from the more obvious advantage of taking a combo package for your Bump and Baby photos in studio, there are some other things you can consider.
Advantages of having bump and baby photos with the same photographer
- The maternity photoshoot gives you an idea of what to expect from the newborn shoot as well, and helps you to prepare for it. You also get to meet me in person, know how I work and make sure you are comfortable before your new addition to the family is welcomed in.
- There is ample opportunity to get tips and help to prepare for both the newborn and maternity session . The newborn in particular takes quite a lot of preparation, and all these little tips help to make sure this goes as smoothly as possible.
- Having both photoshoots with the same photographer means you have a consistent style in your photos. If you have a certain vision or would like to get more creative with combining some of your maternity and newborn photos then having the same photographer for both is very important as they will share your vision from the beginning and have a very good idea of what it is you are looking for.
- You and your child are more likely to be relaxed and comfortable with a familiar photographer not only for these bump and baby photos but with future photo sessions as well – this means you can consistently get amazing natural family photos without any anxiety over the photoshoot.
Scheduling Your Bump and Baby Photos
Timing is everything when it comes to bump and baby photos – here is when you should schedule to have both photo sessions so you can prepare in advance.
When should you have your bump and baby photos?
- Bump Photos: The ideal time for maternity (bump) photos is usually between 28 and 34 weeks. By this stage, the baby bump is beautifully rounded, but you’re still likely to be comfortable enough for a variety of poses. Every pregnancy is unique, so choose a time when you feel comfortable and confident. But try not to leave this too late, as some babies do come early , and we definitely do not want you to be uncomfortable for this photoshoot.
- Newborn Photos: For baby photos, the best time is usually within the first two weeks after birth. Newborns are typically sleepiest during this period, making it easier to capture those peaceful, curled-up poses. Try to schedule your session in advance, as newborn photographers often book up quickly. The first two weeks can also be very overwhelming , so if you know that you really do not want to miss this special moment when they are stillso tiny, then knowing this is pre organised and that you have everything already set up with an experienced photographer will give you some peace of mind .
- Newborn lifestyle photos can be done a little later than two weeks, but you should still not wait too long before you have this type of photoshoot – I would still say you need to have this done in the first 4 weeks. newborn lifestyle photos are more natural and can be in your own outfits etc rather than wrapping your newborn in wraps and props and hats which can take a lot longer to set up.
What should you wear for bump and baby photos?
I think one thing that I love about these bump and baby photos in studio is that the couple chose to keep it very simple. They did not waste time changing outfits etc during their maternity session and instead used a few props to keep the focus on Tanna’s baby bump. The same can be said for Makennas newborn photo session. We used one or two simple wraps and simple backgrounds that I have available here in studio.
Choosing Outfits for Your Bump and Baby Photos
For Bump Photos:
- Fitted or Flowing Gowns: Dresses that are fitted around the bump or flowing gowns that accentuate your silhouette work beautifully. Go for soft, solid colors like pastels, neutrals, or earthy tones to keep the focus on you and your bump.
- Minimalist Style: A simple, timeless look with minimal accessories allows your natural beauty to shine. Lace details, maxi dresses, or even just a draped fabric over the belly can be incredibly elegant.
- Comfortable Footwear: While many shots may be taken barefoot or with low-key footwear, choose shoes that are comfortable and easy to remove if needed.
- if you prefer a more casual style you can also go with tights jeans and a top that still shows off your belly like this couple did. Whats most important is that you are comfortable and you are doing what YOU want to do.
For Baby Photos:
- Soft Onesies and Swaddles: Simple, soft-colored onesies or wraps work best for newborn photos. Light pastels or neutrals create a timeless look, and cozy swaddle blankets are a must for keeping your little one comfortable and secure.If you are opting for a newborn photoshoot with wraps and props I can provide a few of these for you, but if there is something specific you want you are welcome to bring this along and we can see how we can incorporate it.
- Avoid Busy Patterns: Stick to solid colors to keep the focus on your baby’s face and features. Delicate hats, knitted bonnets, or soft headbands add a gentle touch without overpowering the image. Neutral colours also work the best. Also bear in mind that any onesies you use with writing on them may be very difficult to actually show the writing in full in a photo.
- Groom yourself as well – the newborn photoshoot is also about you and the relationship with your baby – so a little natural make up, a nice outfit that compliments that of your baby and getting your nails done are all great tips as there will be close ups holding your baby as well. Take this as an opportunity to give yourself some self care after the first few overwhelming days of a baby coming in to your life.
How can you prepare for bump and baby photos?
Preparing for the Baby Bump Photo Session
- Rest and Hydrate: Pregnancy can be tiring, so get plenty of rest the night before your bump photo session, and stay hydrated to keep your skin looking fresh.
- Practice Relaxing Poses: Try practicing some poses in front of a mirror to find your most comfortable angles. A classic side profile or hands on your belly can help highlight your bump beautifully.
- Bring Personal Props: If there are any meaningful items, such as baby shoes, a special blanket, or an ultrasound photo, consider bringing them along. Personal props can add a touch of sentiment to your photos.
Tips for the Baby Photo Session
- Feed and Soothe Your Baby: Before the session, try to feed your baby to help them stay full, sleepy, and comfortable. This will make it easier to capture those peaceful, sleeping poses.
- Dress Your Baby in Easy-to-Remove Clothes: Newborn photographers often swaddle or change outfits during the session, so dress your baby in something that’s easy to take on and off. I am yet to meet a newborn that doesn’t mind having their clothes changed , so this tip is really key. don’t choose outfits that will be too fiddly.
- Stay Calm and Relaxed: Babies can sense stress, so try to stay relaxed and enjoy the process. Trust your photographer’s guidance; they are experienced in creating a safe, soothing environment for newborns. I know this can be hard to do when your newborn is fussing and unhappy, but the truth is this is almost unavoidable unless you have a complete angel baby which is not the norm. They may be uncomfortable and tired of being changed every few seconds and grumpy because of it, but we are not hurting them.
- Make sure the room is warm if you are having the photoshoot at your home – newborns are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, so make it almost uncomfortably warm for yourself, then you know that your baby is warm enough even while being changed
- This is a marathon of a photoshoot – there needs to be plenty of time in between posing for baby to feed, for mum to take a rest and for changing etc and resettling, even getting baby to sleep for some poses. This is why we need to plan around three hours for a newborn photoshoot. So I suggest clearing your schedule of anything else so you don’t have too many other engagements for the day , you will be tired after the shoot as will your baby so also set some time aside after the shoot to rest and recuperate.
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Final Thoughts
In conclusion keeping it simple and sticking with the same photographer for both maternity and newborn photos is really important for consistency , but also for making sure you are comfortable with your photographer. By the time the newborn session comes along, the more comfortable you are the more at ease your baby is going to be . Remember to check out Cotton on as well for great outfits for either session :). And if you would like to see more bump and baby photos please check out the Maternity and Baby blog category.
Or if you need some more great reasons to take a maternity and newborn combo have a look at this great article showing some before and after pregnancy photo ideas that you could take to your photographer . We look forward to seeing you for your bump and baby photos in studio :).
