8 Tips From A Maternity Photographer in Los Angeles
Serving Los Angeles and beyond, my photography studio has become a sanctuary for families wishing to capture their journey through the lens of high-quality family and maternity photography.
In this guide, I’ll share with you 10 invaluable tips I’ve gathered from my years of experience as a maternity photographer in Los Angeles. These tips are designed to help you prepare, enjoy, and make the most out of your maternity photoshoot, ensuring that every picture reflects the beauty and emotion of this incredible chapter in your life.
TIP #1: Choose the Right Photographer
When it comes to capturing the magical journey of pregnancy, selecting the right maternity photographer in Los Angeles, CA, is crucial. The city is teeming with talented photographers, but finding the one who resonates with your vision and style is essential.
Start by diving deep into portfolios and look for a photographer whose work speaks to you, whether it’s fine art photography or the candid, natural moments of lifestyle photography. See this guide I put together to help you choose the best maternity photographer for your session.
Each photographer has a unique approach to capturing the beauty of pregnancy, and their portfolios will give you a sense of their aesthetic and expertise.
TIP #2: Timing is Everything for Maternity Shoots
The timing of your maternity photoshoot is another pivotal element to consider to make sure your maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles turns out just as you’ve envisioned. The best time for maternity shoots is generally between 28 and 36 weeks. During this window, your belly is beautifully round and prominent, making it the perfect time to capture your pregnancy’s essence.
If you are considering an outdoor shoot, the mild weather in Los Angeles is a blessing, offering many options year-round, from the lush settings of spring to the golden hues of fall in Ventura and beyond.
Yet, it’s also wise to think about your comfort. Outdoor sessions in the warm, soft light of early morning or late afternoon can create breathtaking backdrops for your maternity photos, but indoor studio sessions can be equally stunning and provide a controlled environment that may be a lot more comfortable.
Maternity photography isn’t just about capturing images, it’s about capturing moments, emotions, and the anticipation of your growing family. Whether in a studio setting, against the backdrop of the city’s iconic landscapes, or in the comfort of your home, the timing of your session plays a crucial role in the overall experience and outcome of your maternity shoot.
TIP #3: Selecting the Perfect Location
Los Angeles and Ventura’s Best Spots
Choosing the right location for your maternity shoot in the vast and versatile landscapes of Los Angeles and Ventura can be super exciting. From the serene beaches of Malibu to the rustic charm of Topanga Canyon and the urban elegance of Downtown LA, the options are endless.
But how do you decide between an urban, beach, or nature setting?
First, think about what resonates with you personally. Are you drawn to the calmness of the ocean or the vibrant energy of the city? Imagine yourself in each setting and consider which backdrop you’d love to see in your maternity photos. For beach lovers, the golden hour—just before sunset—on the shores of El Matador or Venice Beach offers soft, flattering light and a dreamy atmosphere. Nature enthusiasts might prefer the lush landscapes of Griffith Park or the botanical gardens in Ventura, where the natural greenery and flowers add a magical touch to your photos.
The role of lighting and time of day in your location choice is paramount. Early morning light in urban settings creates a soft, ethereal quality, reducing the harshness of midday sun and giving a peaceful, almost private backdrop before the city wakes up. On the other hand, late afternoon sessions in nature settings or beaches can capture that golden glow that beautifully outlines your silhouette against the setting sun.
Like I mentioned before, when considering locations, also think about accessibility, privacy, and comfort. Some of the more popular spots might be crowded, especially during weekends or holidays, so exploring lesser-known locations can offer a more intimate and relaxed session. Your photographer can suggest hidden gems that provide stunning backdrops while ensuring you feel comfortable and at ease throughout your shoot.
TIP #4: Styling Your Shoot – Outfits, Hair, and Makeup
Styling your maternity shoot is where your personality gets to shine through, and choosing the right outfits, hair and makeup can make a world of difference in the final photos. When selecting what to wear for your maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles, comfort and fit should be your top priorities.
Flowy dresses, form-fitting gowns that accentuate your belly, or casual chic outfits can all look stunning. Consider soft, neutral colors or pastel shades that complement the natural backdrop and the city’s vibrant scenes. Fabrics that flow and add movement to your photographs are always a good choice.
For a touch of elegance and to capture the timeless beauty of motherhood, some expectant mothers opt for professional hair and makeup. A professional makeup artist knows how to highlight your best features and ensure you look and feel your best. Whether you’re going for a natural, glowing look or something more glamorous, professional makeup can elevate your photographs. Hair styled in soft curls or elegantly pinned up can add to the overall aesthetic, ensuring you look as radiant as you feel.
TIP #5: Posing Like a Pro
The key to natural, flattering poses is to focus on the connection and emotion of this special time rather than on the camera.
For solo shots, one classic pose is to have the expecting mother place her hands gently around her belly in a way that feels natural and comfortable. This simple action highlights the bump and creates a focal point, all while allowing you to stand or sit in a way that feels relaxed. Side angles are particularly flattering, as they showcase the curve of your belly. Leaning slightly forward can also add to the elegance of the pose, giving your body a more dynamic line.
When it comes to couple shots, interaction is everything. Encourage your partner to place their hands on your belly, lean in for a kiss, or simply look down at the bump with a smile. These interactions create a sense of intimacy and love that the camera can capture beautifully. It’s about telling the story of your growing family, the anticipation, and the bond you all share.
Involving siblings in the shoot can add a layer of sweetness and fun. A simple pose could involve older siblings hugging the mother’s belly or sitting next to her, looking at the bump with curiosity or affection. These moments can be spontaneous, capturing the genuine reactions and interactions that naturally occur, making for incredibly heartfelt photos.
See my complete guide on posing for maternity photos here.
TIP #6: Incorporating Props and Personal Items
Creative maternity photography props and personal items can transform a maternity session from beautiful to uniquely yours. They add layers of meaning and personality to your photos, telling a story that’s exclusively about your family and this momentous period in your lives. When choosing props, think about items that reflect your interests, your journey to parenthood, or your dreams for your baby.
One idea is to include baby shoes or a tiny onesie hanging off your belly—simple yet powerful symbols of the new life you’re about to welcome. Books can also be a charming addition, especially if you’re an avid reader or want to instill a love of reading in your child. Holding a book you loved in your childhood or a new one you’ve bought for your baby creates a narrative connection across generations.
Another personalized touch is to incorporate something from your heritage or family history. This could be a piece of jewelry, a traditional fabric draped elegantly, or even a family heirloom placed next to you. These elements add depth to your photos, anchoring them in your family’s story and heritage.
Using props like letters to your future child or ultrasound images can also add an emotional depth to your photos. These elements invite viewers into your world, sharing a bit of your hopes and dreams for your baby.
TIP #7: Understanding the Best Lighting
Lighting can truly make or break a photo session, and understanding how to work with different lighting situations is key to capturing stunning maternity photographs. The golden hour, which occurs just after sunrise or before sunset, is often hailed as the best time for outdoor photography. During this time, the sunlight is soft, warm, and diffused, creating a flattering, ethereal glow that beautifully highlights the expectant mother’s form. In Los Angeles, with its plethora of scenic locations, leveraging the golden hour can result in breathtaking backdrops for your maternity photos.
For indoor shoots, natural light coming through large windows can mimic the softness of the golden hour, bathing the room in a gentle, natural glow. Positioning yourself or your subject near a window can help achieve a similar effect to outdoor lighting, creating soft shadows and depth. However, when natural light isn’t sufficient, studio lights come into play. Softbox lights are a fantastic option as they mimic natural light and can be adjusted to flatter the subject, reducing harsh shadows and highlighting the beauty of the pregnancy.
See my full guide on mastering types of lighting here.
TIP #8: Post-Session: Selecting and Editing Your Photos
After your maternity session wraps up, the excitement continues as you move on to selecting and editing your photos. This stage is crucial in ensuring your maternity photos are everything you dreamed of and more. Collaborating with your photographer is key to achieving the best outcomes. Many photographers will provide a gallery of proofs for you to review. When going through these, look for images that not only capture your physical beauty but also the emotional resonance and connection.
Editing can enhance the natural beauty of your photos, correcting lighting, color balance, and perhaps softening some aspects to create the perfect mood. However, the best edits are those that remain true to the original shot, preserving the authenticity and raw emotion of the moment.
Here are a few tips for sharing your memories:
Custom lists: Use social media features to create custom lists for sharing specific photos with select groups of people.
Digital albums: Create digital albums on photo-sharing sites to share with family and friends.
Announcements: Use a beautiful maternity photo for your baby’s birth announcement, adding a personal touch.
Create a photo book: Compile your favorite shots in a high-quality photo book as a keepsake.
Wall art: Select one or two standout images to create canvas prints for your home.
Thank you cards: Use a photo as the cover for thank you cards following your baby shower or after your baby’s arrival.
See 10 tips for your maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles here.
Oxana Alex Photography
At Oxana Alex Photography, we are open for booking in studio maternity photography sessions. Designer wardrobe and accessories for your session are free or charge. Our studio is located at 2100 Sawtelle Blvd UNIT 307 Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA. You can see our photoshoot pricing here & our photography reviews here.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this guide to maternity photography in Los Angeles, it’s clear that capturing the essence of this magical time goes beyond just taking photos—it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s the soft glow of a maternity portrait or the tender embrace of family photography, each session with is designed to tell your unique story.
At my photography studio, Oxana Alex Photography in Los Angeles, I specialize in maternity photography and in creating special moments that families will treasure forever.
Reach out to my Los Angeles photography studio anytime, I’m here to answer all your questions and to guide you through the process!
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
