Best Maternity Session Prep Guide…from Head to Toe!
(A friendly guide from one mum to another)
Expecting and planning your maternity photoshoot? Here’s a warm, mum-to-mum guide from Luminous Family Photography to help you feel confident, relaxed, and photo-ready for your Brisbane or Ipswich maternity session.
Pregnancy is such a whirlwind, isn’t it? Between appointments, nesting, and all the emotions, it can feel like time is crawling and flying at the same time. A maternity photoshoot is your chance to slow down for a moment — to celebrate the little life growing inside you and capture this beautiful chapter before your little one arrives earthside.
I know how busy life gets (trust me, I’ve been there four times over!), so I’ve put together this simple guide to help you prepare for your maternity session without the stress and uncertainty. Think of it as a friendly chat between mums, sprinkled with some insider tips from behind the lens.
Book & Schedule Early
Maternity sessions are best photographed between 28–34 weeks — when your bump is nice and round and you’re still comfortable moving about. That being said, every pregnancy is different, so if you’re showing a little earlier or later, we can plan accordingly. If you are carrying multiples or are at high risk of delivering early, then we can absolutely do your session that bit earlier too.
Once you’re booked in, we’ll chat about your ideal location (studio or outdoors), wardrobe, and the overall style you love — soft and natural, dreamy and glowing, or bold and elegant. If you’d rather discuss these details first before booking, that is absolutely fine too. You can send an inquiry via my website, send me an email, give me a call, or message me on social media. I want you to feel confident you are getting the session of your dreams.
Treat Yourself — You Deserve It
Your maternity session is the perfect reason to pamper yourself a little!
Makeup:
Getting your hair and makeup done professionally can make you feel like a goddess (and save you the stress of doing it yourself). There are HMUA that have salons, but many also offer mobile services. I booked a mobile HMUA for my maternity session and it was so nice to be papered in my own home, in a comfy chair with my slippers on!
If you prefer to do your own makeup, aim for a slightly more polished version of your everyday look. The camera and natural light can wash out colour, making makeup appear lighter than it does indoors. Because sunlight tends to drain the face of warmth and dimension, a normal amount of contouring done inside can look like plain foundation once you step outside. To counter this, go a touch deeper with your contour and blush — it might seem a little strong indoors, but it will photograph beautifully outdoors, giving you that natural, defined look without appearing washed out.
Hair Styling:
Think elegant, romantic, and authentically you. Remember that you may make multiple outfit changes, so a style that will not get messed up with these changes. Also consider the location of your session. Is it in the temperature-controlled luxury of a studio, where everything stays in place? Or on location, where wind and rain and sun and humidity vary, where curls may drop, and the wind has fun with your hair?
Nails:
I often take close-up shots of your hands cradling your bump or holding your partner’s hand, so a fresh manicure (even clear, neutral, or French tips) makes a lovely finishing touch. But if you would prefer bold and beautiful colourful approach to match your dress selections, go for it! Don’t forget to get your partner to give his nails a good scrub too!
Skin:
Gently moisturise your belly before your session, especially if we’ll be doing bare-belly shots — it gives your skin that healthy glow! Don’t forget your hands and face can always use some extra moisture and hydration. Make sure to keep your lips hydrated and plump too for those glowing mumma smiles!
What to Wear
Choosing what to wear can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry — I’ve got you covered.
I have a client wardrobe with over 30 maternity gowns in a range of colours, fabrics, and fits. You’re also welcome to bring something special of your own, dress, jeans etc. — just send me a quick photo beforehand so I can help plan the styling and incorporate it into your session.
Lingerie
For under your selection of gowns and dresses, wear comfortable and smooth nude or white underwear (not lacy or dark) to avoid visible lines, patterns, or shadows under lighter dresses or if your session involves water.
Shoes
Most of my client gowns will hide your shoes, but for outdoor sessions, neutral sandals or flats work beautifully. If we’ll be walking on grass or sand, something easy to slip on and off is best. You can also bring something fun — sparkly shoes, cowboy boots — whatever feels like you. Just remember you may be on your feet for a bit (though you can absolutely rest whenever you need to!), so comfort is important.
Accessories
I have a range of flower crowns, hats, tiaras, and bouquets you can borrow to add that magical touch. You’ll be able to let me now if you would like any of these options on my pre-session questionnaire, so I can select the ones that will suit your gown selection. If you have any of your own you’d like to bring, please be my guest!
You are welcome to bring changes of jewellery to swap out with your dresses changes for some gorgeous different looks. If you’d prefer just to wear just the one set, then that brings continuity to your gallery too. Think of things that would work well with your dress colours, like plain gold, diamonds, or pearls. I packed little sets of jewellery in individual zip lock bags for my session, so it wasn’t all jumbled together, and it made sure everything was kept safe and sound.
Pro tip: Take off your watch or hair tie from your wrist before the session — small details like that make a big difference in photos!
Partner & Family Outfits
If your partner or kids are joining in, simple is best.
Stick with neutral, solid colours — soft whites and creams, beiges, denim, or earthy tones. You can of course go for something a little bolder like navy, burgundy, or green. Just remember that their outfits need to compliment yours.
Compliment and Coordinate.
For example, if you’re in a flowing blush gown, your partner could wear beige chinos and a white shirt, while your children wear a soft denim or linen outfit.
You can also opt for cute, identical matching outfits too.
Avoid super bright colours, neons, logos, and large patterns that distract from your beautiful bump.
For little ones, think layers and texture — suspenders, cardigans, or dresses with twirl. Hair bows and French caps can complete the look. Simple, tidy shoes or bare feet look best.
If you’re not sure, send me photos of your options — I love helping families coordinate their looks!
Preparing the Kids (and Dads 😉)
Let’s be honest — dads and kids don’t always love photo day. But that’s okay!
It can help to tell your little ones that we’re going to dance around, tickle each other, and have fun together. Encourage them to practice kissing or hugging your tummy — it helps them feel involved and excited.
Fed kids are happy kids. Make sure their little tummies are full before your session, so they can focus on the fun and not the tummy grumbles. Bring a few small, mess-free treats like sultanas or cruskits for encouragement and a snack break if necessary (or bribery too — no judgment here!).
As for the dads — most are pleasantly surprised by how relaxed and painless it all is. Remind him it’s not about awkward poses; it’s about capturing connection, laughter, and love with his favourite people. If you’ve selected an Anastasia gown for your session, most dads get a kick from throwing the train and waving it around for some epic images.
Your Pre-Session Checklist
Here’s a simple timeline to help you feel organised:
A Month Before
Book hair, nail, and makeup appointments
Plan your outfits and accessories
Order any outfits for the family
1–2 Weeks Before
Finalise everyone’s outfits and check they fit comfortably
Chat to your family about what to expect and get them excited
3–5 Days Before
Avoid self-tanners (it can photograph orange)
Try on your full outfit (if you are bringing one of your own) along with the family
Drink plenty of water for glowing skin
Prep accessories and shoes
Plan out the day before and day of your sessions to be quiet and restful
1–2 Days Before
Pack your day bag (outfits, water, snacks, wipes, hairbrush, etc.)
Rest and stay hydrated
Get lots of rest and put your feet up.
Get an early night if you’ve booked a sunrise session.
Take a breath — you’re ready!
On the Day
Take it slow and enjoy yourself. You’ve done all the hard work — now it’s time to celebrate this beautiful moment. Get a good night’s rest the day before so you are as fresh as possibly (I know all too well how hard it can be to sleep comfortably late in pregnancy). If you’ve got an afternoon session, then try to have a fairly quiet, chill day beforehand. You don’t want to be exhausted from running errands or doing housework before your session even begins.
If you’re nervous, that’s completely normal! I’ll guide you through every pose and help you feel comfortable. We’ll move, laugh, and capture the quiet, intimate moments, celebrating the love for the little life inside you.
If the weather changes, don’t stress — overcast skies often give the most gorgeous, soft light. If it’s crazy stormy or windy weather, and dangerous to be outside for your location session, I will make the call to reschedule. Your and bub’s safety is my top priority.
After Your Session
Once your maternity photoshoot is done, it’s time to put your feet up, and start thinking about your newborn session! I love seeing families return when baby arrives — it’s such a privilege to photograph the next chapter of your story. While you are still pregnant is the perfect time to book in your newborn session, so all the planning and paper work can be done and out of the way before bub arrives. You can even wear one of my client dresses for your newborn session for a beautiful collection of complimentary images.
Final Thoughts
You’ll never regret taking the time to document this season of life. I didn’t for my first two pregnancies and regret it now. Booking my own maternity session for my third bub made me realise how truly beautiful and special being pregnant with each and every child is. Maternity photos are more than just images — they’re your baby’s first chapter, your family’s love story, a testament to the incredible workings of your body, and a reminder of how strong and beautiful you are in this moment.
I can’t wait to capture your bump, your love, and your story.
If you’re ready to book your Brisbane or Ipswich maternity photoshoot, I’d love to hear from you!
Let’s create something beautiful together. 💛