Diversity in Studio Maternity Sessions

Whenever I am asked what my favorite type of session to photograph is, without hesitation I say 'Maternity!' It also makes me feel a bit like a hypocrite though, because I only ever did maternity photos with babies 2 and 3. They are my favorite to photograph though. I have been loving having a larger studio space that allows for a variety of different sets. I do love outdoor sessions, but I am also very honest, that not every person is wanting to traverse through the wilderness to find the perfect spot for photos in the Iowa winter. I have a large collection of maternity gowns and some of them are sheer. That can be quite chilly in the Iowa winters. Having an indoor space for those sessions that is temperature controlled is perfect.

I love being able to create a lot of different looks for each mama-to-be during her session. Some of my maternity clients love being pregnant and feel great, and others have Hyperemesis gravidarum and throw up multiple times per day. Having maternity photos taken is their time to celebrate the beauty of pregnancy without focusing on all of the icky parts (and trust me, there are icky parts!)

Any session can choose to add on hair and make-up. I have a list of preferred hair and make-up artists. Alyssa has done make-up and beach waves for several sessions for me this spring and summer. Having a professional tackle your look on your photo day will take away one of your biggest stressors and help you get photo ready. Alyssa and other artists are pros at understanding what will looks right under studio lighting and highlighting and enhancing your already existing beauty.

The best part about the studio session is that it makes for easy outfit changes. Much less complicated than my pop-up tent that I use on location. Some of the most laid-back looks are my favorite. Jeans and a sports bra? I love it! I love the simplicity of photographing on seamless paper. As the name implies, it makes for a smooth and seamless finish.

Including a partner in the maternity session captures the love and the bond between the couple. It's also a fun way to cozy up and have a little photo session just the two of you, before baby makes three (at least with Rachel and Scotty). You can absolutely included younger children or even pets in your session as well!

Whatever your vibe for your maternity session is--have fun with it! Play around with different textures, angles, and even hats. You might fall in love with something totally unique! Remember that just because you're in studio, it doesn't mean that you only get one look either.