10 Common Mistakes Pregnancy Photographers Make
Maternity photography is an art, but like any craft, it comes with a learning curve. After years of capturing pregnancy portraits, certain mistakes have become all too familiar, some learned through trial and error, others after refining techniques over countless sessions.
I’ve been a maternity photographer for over a decade, shooting radiant mamas at my Los Angeles maternity studio, and I’ve seen it all. There are lessons that come with experience, moments that redefine the way a session unfolds, and small missteps that can make a big difference in the final images. These are the top 10 mistakes maternity photographers make, and more importantly, how to avoid them to create stunning, timeless portraits that truly capture the beauty of this moment.
Forgetting the Mama’s Comfort is Everything in Maternity Photography
As a maternity photographer, you can get so caught up in nailing that perfect shot, the one with the light sculpting her baby bump just right, her gown flowing effortlessly, and every detail falling into place, that you forget the most important thing. The woman in front of the camera isn’t just a subject, she’s a mama-to-be, carrying a baby and often deep into her third trimester. Her comfort isn’t just important, it’s everything. If she’s uncomfortable, it won’t matter how stunning the composition is, the tension will show in her face, her posture, and ultimately, in the final images.
If she’s too tired, standing too long, or feeling awkward in a pose that looks great in theory but not in practice, those maternity photos won’t radiate joy, they’ll feel forced. That’s why in a studio setting, every element should be designed for her comfort first, a cozy chair nearby, soft fabric for gentle reclining shots, and a pacing that allows her to relax into the session rather than push through it.
Checking in constantly is a must. “You good? Need a break? Want to shift positions?” Small things make a huge difference, like keeping the studio temperature comfortable, having water on hand, and letting her move naturally between shots instead of locking into rigid poses. Also, lighting should work with her, not against her, soft, flattering setups that make her feel radiant without requiring her to hold an uncomfortable stance for too long.
See 10 tips for your maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles here.
Overloading on Props Like It’s a Circus Act
The temptation is real. It’s easy to get carried away after scrolling through Pinterest, convinced that a maternity session needs an elaborate setup complete with neon signs, oversized letters spelling out ‘BABY,’ fairy lights, and an entire nursery scene re-created in the studio. But truth is, when props take over, the mother-to-be gets lost in the chaos, and her baby bump, which should be the centerpiece, becomes just another element in an overcrowded frame.
Props absolutely have their place in maternity photography, but they should enhance, not overpower. A single meaningful item, like a delicate bouquet of flowers in her hands, a flowing fabric draped to add movement, or a flower crown to complement her glow, can elevate the session without stealing the spotlight. The best maternity images feel effortless, intimate, and elegant, and that happens when the focus stays on her presence, her emotions, and the quiet anticipation of new life.
See more on creative maternity photography props here.
Chasing Perfect Light at the Wrong Time
For outdoor pregnancy photographers, timing is just as crucial as lighting. A great maternity session isn’t just about chasing ideal light, it’s about creating an environment where she feels relaxed and confident. While golden hour might look stunning, if it means she’s standing in extreme temperatures or battling unpredictable weather, the session will suffer. That’s why studio maternity photography eliminates this struggle entirely. In a controlled indoor setting, lighting can be perfected with softboxes, reflectors, and large studio windows, creating that same golden-hour glow without the discomfort of standing outside at sunset in sweltering heat or freezing winds.
The best images come from prioritizing her experience over rigid lighting preferences. Whether it’s adjusting the time of day for softer, even light or choosing a studio setup that flatters her naturally, the key is working with what makes her feel her best.
See top reasons to consider an in studio pregnancy photoshoot here.
Ignoring the Partner’s Role in the Story
It happens all the time, and it’s an easy mistake to make. The focus is on the glowing mama, the perfect baby bump, the gentle hand cradling her bellym and meanwhile, the partner is hovering awkwardly in the background, unsure where to stand or what to do. But they’re not just there to hold a water bottle or adjust the train of a gown. They are part of this moment too. This is their growing family, their milestone, and a great maternity photographer knows how to bring them into the story, not leave them on the sidelines.
The key is making the partner feel just as important in the session. Instead of treating them like a prop in the background, they should feel engaged, present, and emotionally connected. Sometimes, that’s as simple as giving them a role, holding hands, whispering something sweet, or resting a hand on the belly in a way that feels protective and natural. The best moments aren’t forced poses but real interactions that reflect their anticipation and excitement.
One of the easiest ways to create these moments is to redirect their focus away from the camera and toward each other. That shift in energy, the way their expressions soften, the quiet way they lean into each other, that’s where the magic is.
Read my guide on couple poses for black and white maternity photos here to get some inspiration!
Posing Her Like She’s Not Pregnant
Let’s talk posing, because this is where so many photographer, especially those coming from other portrait styles, get it wrong. Maternity photography is not the time to default to creative fashion or catalog poses that don’t acknowledge the natural changes in a pregnant woman’s body. That doesn’t mean maternity photography can’t be fashion-forward or editorial, in fact, it absolutely can. A well-posed maternity portrait can be as striking and stylish as any high-end fashion shoot, but the key is to make sure the pose enhances her pregnancy rather than working against it.
Nothing feels more out of place than a rigid, hands-on-hips, exaggerated stance that ignores the beauty of her bump or forces her into uncomfortable angles that simply don’t feel natural for an expectant mother. The goal isn’t to erase the pregnancy, it’s to celebrate the curves, the strength, and the elegance of this moment in a way that feels effortless. A maternity session should be about embracing movement, fluidity, and confidence, whether that’s through a stunning couture gown, a sculptural pose, or a powerful, high-fashion silhouette that highlights the belly rather than hiding it.
The best approach is to pose in a way that flatters but also allows for comfort. A soft side angle to accentuate the belly, a controlled lean, a slight shift in weight, these small adjustments make a huge difference in both how she looks and how she feels. Encouraging natural movements, like running her hands over her belly, stretching, or adjusting mid-pose, creates a dynamic energy that makes the images feel elevated yet organic.
Skipping the Pre-Shoot Chat
This one can make or break a maternity session, yet it’s one of the most overlooked steps in the process. A photographer can have flawless lighting, a stunning wardrobe selection, and the best gear, but if there’s no connection with the expectant mother before the session, the photos will feel impersonal. Trust is everything in maternity photography, and that trust starts long before she steps in front of the camera.
A quick pre-shoot conversation, whether it’s a 15-minute call or a few messages back and forth, makes all the difference. It’s not just about discussing wardrobe or session details; it’s about understanding her personality, her comfort zones, and what makes her feel beautiful. One expecting mother once told me she was self-conscious about her swollen ankles but loved how her hair looked during pregnancy. That one detail shifted the entire approach, we focused on seated poses with her hair front and center, and she left the session glowing with confidence.
This pre-shoot chat is what personalizes the session. Learning a couple’s story, their dynamic, or even small quirks allows for a maternity shoot that feels authentic to them rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Without it, the session risks feeling transactional. With it, the session becomes a moment they’ll remember, not just for the photos, but for the experience itself.
Read more on how to get ready for a maternity photoshoot here.
Editing Out the Realness
Too many maternity photographers, especially early on, fall into the trap of over-smoothing skin, over-brightening highlights, and flattening natural shadows, unintentionally stripping away the depth and warmth that make an image feel genuine and intimate. While a polished look is important, the goal isn’t to erase every detail or create an artificially flawless portrait, it’s to enhance what’s already beautiful and capture a version of her that feels authentic, not overly processed. Great editing enhances, not erases, it should highlight her natural glow, not wash out her features or remove the texture that makes the image feel alive and timeless.
It’s about refining, not overcorrecting. Thoughtful adjustments, like subtle skin retouching, softening lighting transitions, balancing highlights and shadows, and using precise dodging and burning techniques, bring out her best features naturally, without making her look like someone else. The key is to preserve the depth and dimension in her face and body, ensuring the image retains the richness and emotion that makes it unique.
A great edit should feel like a gentle polish, not a transformation. It should capture her essence, her radiance, and the quiet anticipation of motherhood without making the final result feel detached or artificial. The best maternity portraits aren’t about creating perfection, they’re about capturing a moment that feels personal, true, and beautifully real.
Forgetting the Power of Angles
Angles are the secret weapon of maternity photography, the difference between a portrait that feels sculpted and intentional versus one that falls flat. One wrong tilt of the camera can distort proportions, diminish the curve of the belly, or make an elegant pose feel awkward and boxy. Pregnancy photography isn’t just point-and-shoot, it’s a dance of perspective, and mastering angles is what separates an average maternity session from a breathtaking one.
A straight-on, eye-level shot might feel like the safe choice, but it rarely does justice to a pregnant silhouette. Instead, the key is to think dimensionally. Shooting slightly from below elongates her frame, letting the bump stand out while maintaining balance in the body. A subtle side angle accentuates the curve of pregnancy, creating a natural flow that feels soft and flattering. Overhead shots, especially with a reclining pose, bring out a dreamy, ethereal quality, turning a simple moment into something cinematic.
Angles don’t just change the way the body looks, they shape the entire mood of the image. A gentle tilt, a shift in height, even a minor repositioning of the camera can transform the energy of a pose. This is why maternity photography isn’t about posing alone, it’s about understanding how to frame her body in a way that makes her feel confident and radiant. The right angle isn’t just technical, it’s emotional, and it’s the key to turning a beautiful moment into a truly unforgettable portrait.
See my pregnancy photography article to learn more about mastering reflections, perspective and dynamic symmetry.
Rushing Through the Session Like It’s a Race
It’s easy to get caught up in a packed schedule, especially when juggling back-to-back maternity photo shoot sessions, but rushing through a photoshoot is the fastest way to miss the magic, the connection, and the moments that make the images feel real. These sessions aren’t just about getting the shots, they’re about giving her the space to feel beautiful, confident, and fully present in this milestone moment. When there’s room to breathe, the photos glow in a way that rushed sessions simply can’t replicate.
Early on, it’s a mistake many photographers make, moving through poses too quickly, treating the session like a checklist instead of an experience. But maternity photography is about energy, pacing, and allowing moments to unfold naturally. A rushed session leaves no time for a mother to settle into her confidence, no chance for genuine expressions, no opportunity for those unguarded, in-between moments that often turn out to be the best shots. When a client says, “I felt so easy to work with, you made me feel special,” that’s when you know you’ve done it right.
The best approach? Set a comfortable pace with no pressure, no racing against the clock. Let her take breaks, adjust her wardrobe, sip some water. Let her enjoy it, and the images will reflect that energy.
Not Capturing the Tiny Moments That Matter
These tiny moments, the belly rub, the soft smile, the playful glance at her partner, are the gold dust of maternity photography. They’re the fleeting seconds that transform a standard session into something deeply personal. It’s easy to get caught up in the big, structured poses and forget that the most meaningful images are often the ones that happen in between. The way she unconsciously rests her hand on her belly, the little laugh she lets out when her partner whispers something unexpected, those are the moments she’ll want to remember when pregnancy is a memory and newborn days blur into milestones.
The mistake many photographers make is treating a maternity session like a checklist, pose, click, next, without leaving room for what happens naturally. A staged shot might be stunning, but it’s the unguarded gestures and organic interactions that truly bring the story to life. One moment of genuine connection, one candid touch, one fleeting expression of anticipation can say more than a perfectly composed portrait ever could. The goal is for the client to see the final images and say, “You captured me”.
The best way to catch these moments is to stay ready. The camera shouldn’t drop just because the pose is “done.” Keep observing, let them linger in the frame a little longer. Instead of constantly directing, give her some space, some of the most meaningful shots happen when no one is thinking about the camera. Let the moment breathe, observe how she naturally moves, and resist the urge to over-direct. If it’s a couple maternity photoshoot, allow their connection to unfold, the way he instinctively reaches for her hand, the soft laughter between them, the quiet moment where their foreheads meet. If it’s just her, focus on the subtle details, the way she closes her eyes as she cradles her belly, the peaceful anticipation in her expression, the small gestures that reveal just how connected she already is to her baby.
Why Every Pregnancy Photographer Should Master the Art of Listening
Every mother-to-be walks into a session with her own energy, her own insecurities, and her own quiet joys. Some feel radiant and confident, embracing every curve of pregnancy, while others feel nervous, unsure of how they’ll look on camera. Some want their images to feel ethereal and dreamy, others prefer a bold, fashion-forward edge. The only way to know? Ask. And more importantly, listen.
The key is to create space for her to express herself. Instead of walking into a session assuming what will work, start with a conversation. Ask open-ended questions: “What’s your favorite thing about pregnancy so far?” “How do you want these images to feel when you look back at them?” And then, let the silence do the work. Let her share, let her personality unfold, and pay attention, not just to her words, but to her body language, her tone, the way she instinctively touches her belly when she talks about her baby.
If she’s nervous about looking stiff, introduce movement. If she adores how her hair has grown thicker, make sure to highlight that in the portraits. If she’s sentimental about this being her last pregnancy, create images that feel soft, nostalgic, and timeless. Great maternity photography isn’t just about what she looks like, it’s about capturing how she feels. Listening is what makes a session personal. It turns a photoshoot into an experience, a set of images into a story, and a moment into something she’ll never forget.
When is the best time for a maternity photo shoot?
The best time for maternity photos is typically between 28-34 weeks of pregnancy. This is when the pregnant woman’s bump is beautifully rounded but she still feels comfortable enough to move with ease. Waiting too late in the third trimester can make certain poses less comfortable, while shooting too early may not capture the full curve of the belly. Every mom is different, so it’s always best to consider what feels right for her.
What should I wear for a maternity photo shoot?
Wardrobe plays a huge role in pregnancy photography. The best choices are form-fitting dresses that highlight the bump, flowing gowns that add movement to the photograph, or gorgeous, elegant fabrics that drape beautifully. Many studio photographers, like myself, provide a selection of maternity gowns to help expectant moms feel their best. A well-planned outfit can elevate the entire session and ensure beautifully captured maternity photos.
See more on what to wear for a maternity photoshoot here.
Do I need a consultation before my maternity shoot?
Yes! A consult before the photo shoot helps personalize the experience. Whether through a quick DM or a formal chat, this is when expectant mothers can discuss their vision, favorite poses, and any special details they’d love to include. A great maternity photographer will always take the time to document what makes each pregnancy unique.
Should I schedule my maternity and newborn photos together?
Many moms find it helpful to shoot around the same timeframe when planning their maternity and newborn sessions. Since the newborn phase is fleeting, scheduling both in advance ensures they are able to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments with their chosen newborn photographer.
How do I make my maternity photo shoot feel natural?
The key to a relaxed photo session is creating a comfortable environment where the mom can feel at ease. Encouraging natural movement, allowing time for breaks, and giving gentle direction can make a huge difference. Moments like a sweet snuggle, a belly rub, or soft sunshine-like lighting can turn a simple portrait into something truly blown away-worthy. The best photographers take their time, allowing expectant mothers to feel beautiful, confident, and completely in the moment.
What makes a maternity session truly special?
Maternity photographers know that a maternity shoot is one of the most important photo sessions in a woman’s life. It’s about more than just taking pictures, it’s about celebrating expectant moms and the journey into motherhood. The right pregnancy photographer will focus on attention to detail, take the plenty of time needed to make the experience memorable, and document the love and anticipation of this life-changing time.
Conclusion
If there’s one thing that maternity photography has taught me, it’s that these sessions aren’t just about the perfect shot, they’re about capturing the experience. It’s about truly seeing the mother-to-be in front of the camera, the way she glows, the way she laughs, the way she cradles her belly without even thinking about it. The magic isn’t in technical perfection, it’s in the connection, the comfort, and the tiny moments that will mean everything when she looks back on them in the years to come.
Every session holds something special. The mom who walked in feeling awkward but left glowing with confidence. The soft, unposed moment between shots when she traced little circles on her belly, lost in thought. These are the details that make maternity photography more than just a photoshoot, they make it a memory. And the best photographers don’t just take pictures, they create an experience that makes their clients feel seen, celebrated, and beautiful.
So whether you’re a maternity photographer refining your craft or an expectant mother preparing for your session, focus on what really matters. Prioritize comfort, allow moments to unfold naturally, and don’t rush the in-between seconds, because that’s where the real magic happens.
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
