Why You Should (and Shouldn’t) Have a Maternity Session

Maternity photography has become increasingly popular over the last few years as women find them a beautiful way to celebrate and document their pregnancy journey. While many moms cherish these photo shoots, others don’t quite get the hype and are completely against them.

Yes, you can take selfies just to have something and even post them on social media to keep friends and family updated, but often times, those images are not flattering and you find yourself a bit disappointed when you look at them. I think expecting moms tend to hide behind the idea that they could look professional when a cell phone picture is not intended to be.

As I continue to grow in this space and talk to women, I’ve heard just about every reason you shouldn’t have a maternity session and I’ve compiled that list of reasons of the top five here. If you have an interest in having a maternity session but are hesitant, please read on.

It Doesn’t Feel Real or Authentic

For some moms, the idea of a posed and polished photo shoot doesn’t feel genuine. The stylized nature of professional maternity photography with gowns and posing might seem forced or insincere, making them uncomfortable or disinterested in participating.

Maybe a professional studio session is not for you. Take informal, relaxed photos at home when you’re feeling your best. Involve your partner or close family members to capture intimate, loving moments that highlight the joy and connection of this special time. You can even go one step further and have a documentary style, where a photographer follows you around for the day, photographing several moments within a day of your pregnancy journey. This approach allows you to create a more authentic and meaningful approach to your memories without the pressure of a polished session that turns you off.

I Am Fat and Don’t Feel Good

Pregnancy brings on significant amount of physical changes, and not every woman feels comfortable showcasing these changes in front of a camera. Feeling fat, tired, or generally unwell, are typical feelings of pregnancy and makes the idea of having a maternity session for some expecting moms a waste of time. Notice I said, feelings, because you are not fat! You are growing a baby inside of you which brings on extra fluid in your body to support the growth of the baby but you are still beautiful and radiant.

You may not feel like having a professional session, but take informal, relaxed photos at home when you’re feeling your best. Involve your partner or close family members to capture intimate, loving moments that highlight the joy and connection of this special time. You can also consider scheduling a maternity session earlier in your pregnancy when you feel more comfortable and energetic. I always recommend moms have their session between 28 and 34 weeks because that’s when they feel the most comfortable, have the most energy, and most importantly, have the perfect round belly.

It’s Too Expensive

Professional photography, like many other niches in photography, is going to be an investment, if you do it right. When you invest in the right photographer, you end up with images that will outlive you. Pictures that will be passed down in your family for generations to come, it often time outlasts things that you tend to put more value such as your phone and even your home. But for many expecting parents, this might not seem like a necessary expense given the other financial demands of preparing for a new baby, such as the nursery and a baby shower.

If you are still unsure or saying no to a maternity session, consider investing in a newborn session. Since you’d prefer to be centered around the baby, newborn photos can be equally special and provide the lasting memories of your baby’s early days. Additionally, many photographers, including myself, offer packages that combine maternity and newborn sessions, making it easier for you to photograph both milestones without breaking the bank.

I Don’t Like Being Photographed

I get it, not everyone enjoys being in front of the camera. Many of my clients who have done their maternity sessions also have this same struggle. But if you generally dislike having your picture taken, a maternity session might feel more like a chore than a celebration. Instead, find creative ways to capture the essence of your pregnancy without focusing solely on you. Instead, photograph the details like your baby bump, ultrasound images, or the nursery. You can also involve your partner or older children in the photos to shift the focus away from yourself while still documenting this special time.

I’m Not Going to Frame them, So What’s the Point?

Some moms feel that if they’re not going to display the photos prominently in their homes, there’s no point in having a professional maternity session. You may not want to frame them, but have you considered an album? Every picture I have ever seen of my family members growing up was in an album. Growing up we only had a few pictures on the wall, mostly because we lived in an apartment, but we had albums filled with pictures. I remember going through them as a kid and asking my mom about the people in it and what they were doing when the picture was taken. Now as an adult, a few of those albums, sit on my bookshelf, easily accessible for me to glance at them from time to time; remembering the stories told to me or the moments before those pictures were taken.

Deciding whether or not to have a maternity photo session is a personal choice and only one you should answer. While many find joy and value in capturing these moments, others have valid reasons for opting out. Respecting each individual’s feelings and choices surrounding this milestone is essential. Whether through photos or other personal means, the celebration of pregnancy should be authentic to the mother’s wishes and comfort.

Disclaimer

This is not a message of pressure. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with not wanting one, but I have learned often that moms regret not having the session after their baby is born, truly understanding the significance of the session when it’s too late. If maternity photos are something you are interested in but make these or any excuses, you should really have them done. Why? Because that’s your true heart’s desire. If you have absolutely no desire or interest, then don’t. You may or may not have regrets, but I’m not writing to convince you. I am writing to convince the mom with the desire to listen to her heart.

If reading this has sparked an interest in you, I would love to chat with you. If you’re looking for a customized photography experience that respects your personal preferences, I’m here to help you capture these precious moments. Contact me today to discuss how we can create beautiful memories that reflect your unique journey into motherhood.