Here are 30 creative studio maternity ideas from real mums and expectant couples which you can consider trying. We have gathered these ideas to inspire and help you capture stunning images.
From elegant poses to getting creative with baby props, these ideas are generally known for bringing out the beauty of pregnancy. Therefore, your maternity photo album will be a treasure trove if you try these styles.
This article is not for moms-to-be alone. You will also find it helpful if you are a photographer just starting out with studio maternity photo shoots because, as a professional photographer with several years of experience, I will be sharing some pro tips which might help improve your skills.
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What items do you need for a studio maternity photoshoot?
Bring along the following items for your studio maternity photoshoot:
A variety of clothes.
Some baby dresses and props.
Accessories, e.g., necklaces, hats, scarves, etc.
Ultrasound images if your pregnancy is still in the early stages.
Find the ideas below:
1. Adore yourself with flowers
Hold some of your favorite flowers next to your chest or baby bump. This is a beautiful way to embrace and show your inner goddess. You can face the camera straight-on or at a 45-degree angle.
2. Get covered in flowing silk or fabric
One of the best studio maternity photoshoot ideas includes adoring yourself with flowing silks. This will add a touch of elegance and nobility to your photos. You can drape the silks around your shoulders or over your belly.
Pro tip for photographers: Use a large fan to sway the fabrics instead of your hands. This will make the task faster and easier. And do not forget to have some fabrics in your studio.
3. Hold your belly and look at your baby bump
Another creative maternity photo idea you can embrace is to hold your belly or baby bump with your two hands while looking at it.
4. Looking up
This is a variation of the idea above. But instead of looking at your belly, consider looking at any point of interest above your head.
5. Holding your baby’s first outfit
Hold some of the baby’s first clothing items, such as a pair of shoes or a tiny onesie, next to or on your baby bump.
6. Wearing a flower crown
Many expectant moms love wearing flower crowns for their maternity photo shoots. You should try it, especially if you are a lover of nature.
7. Exercising
If you are a fitness expert, instructor, or enthusiast, consider bringing some of your tools into the studio for your maternity photo session.
8. Holding the ultrasound result
Try holding the ultrasound result in front of your belly. This will show that you are excited about the arrival of your little one.
9. Looking at the ultrasound result
This is a variation on the earlier pose, but you have to be studying the sonogram image instead of pointing it at the camera.
10. Looking at the mirror
This is the best and most creative studio maternity photo idea. This style is a great way to show that you care about yourself and your appearance.
Pro tip for photographer: Focus on capturing her reflection.
11. Milk bath
A milk bath is one of the best indoor/studio maternity photo ideas. So, consider having a luxurious milk bath in a bathtub filled with your favorite flowers.
Pro tip: You might be interested in the article – How To Do Portrait Milk Bath Photography?
12. Revealing your baby’s gender
Spell out your baby’s gender using simple materials, such as boxes. This is a great and silent way to reveal more details about your unborn child to your friends.
13. Playing with stuffed animals
Stuffed animals and toys are common props in every maternity photographer’s studio. So, tell your photographer to arrange some for your photo session.
14. Holding a glass of milk
Try holding a glass of milk in front of the belly. This style might look a bit weird, but it is a meaningful gesture. It represents the health and overall welling of your unborn child.
15. Sitting on the floor
Consider sitting on the studio floor for a more relaxed and natural pose. While sitting on the floor, you can cradle your belly with both hands or wrap your arms around it to emphasize the love and connection you have with your unborn baby.
16. Painting
If you fancy painting, you can have the photographer take a photo of you painting on cardboard. This is a good way to express your individuality and make your studio maternity pictures appear creative and artistic.
17. Acting goofy
Try making silly expressions, such as sticking out your tongue, crossing your eyes, or scrunching your face. Such playful facial expressions can add a sense of humor to your pictures.
18. Standing near your unborn baby’s bassinet
Bring your unborn child’s bassinet to the photo studio and stand close to it for some maternity shots. This will show how eager you are to welcome your little one into the world.
If you are yet to buy a bassinet for your baby, we recommend the Chicco LullaGo Anywhere LE Portable Bassinet. It is cheap, lightweight, and easy to install or put together.
19. Cross-legged pose
One of the simplest poses for moms-to-be that is very effective for maternity shoots is to sit cross-legged on the floor, with one hand gently resting on your belly and the other supporting your body. This way, you create a base that highlights your baby bump peacefully and comfortably.
20. Side pose
Sitting on the floor and facing sideways should be among your maternity photo poses. It is a candid way to show your beautiful curves and natural beauty.
21. Lying on your back
Aside from sitting on the floor, you can lie on your back and cradle your baby with your hands while facing the camera.
Pro tip for the photographer: Be creative. Take the shots from both low and high angles.
22. Stepping on a ladder
If the photo studio has a prop ladder, consider stepping on it for a unique shot. I love using ladder props for indoor maternity photos because they usually add dimensions to pictures and symbolize reaching new heights.
23. Sitting on a swing
You can also sit on a prop swing and cradle your baby bump with your hands. In fact, this is one of the best and most creative studio maternity photo ideas you can try.
Pro tip: Ensure you use only backdrops that complement your subject’s desired theme, dress, or skin tone.
24. Classic angelic look
Wear an angel costume or dress in white or pastel colors, accessorized with angel wings to create dreamy and ethereal maternity photos.
Pro tip: Try to capture the photos with natural or soft light.
25. Sitting near a musical instrument
If you are a musicophile (music lover), consider posing near any musical instrument in the studio. Not every photo studio has a musical-related prop. So, I recommend you consult the photographer before the session and plan accordingly.
26. Lean against the wall
Leaning against a wall is a popular pose among pregnant women. It is also one of the simplest poses for females. So, consider trying it out.
27. Reading
Are you a bookworm? If yes, think about capturing maternity pictures of you enjoying your favorite book.
28. Spell it out
If the pregnancy is still in its early stage and less visible, you can use some captions or creative props for your maternity photo session.
More articles you may like to read –
Pregnancy couple photoshoot ideas and poses, both Indoor and Outdoor
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Outdoors pregnancy photoshoot Location Guide. How to choose the best location?
29. With your friends
Invite and include your best friends in your maternity photos. Their presence in the studio with you will offer you great motivation.
30. With your husband
Ultimately, take some pictures with your husband. If you already have some kids, include them in pictures too. This will create a unique family portrait that you and your family will treasure forever.