37 Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas for Dreamy Photos
Over the years, as a Portland maternity photographer, I’ve photographed so many incredible women and families through this chapter and learned what makes a session truly special. Below are 37 pregnancy photoshoot ideas to inspire your session, ideas that photograph beautifully, help you relax, and capture the emotion behind this season.
Pregnancy is one of those seasons that feels slow and fast all at once. You’re preparing for so much change, and before you know it…your belly, your glow, your rhythm—it all shifts into a new chapter.
That’s why your maternity photos should feel effortless, meaningful, and like you. Not stiff or overly posed, but genuine. Where you can laugh, move, and soak in the beauty of this season.
Natural & Effortless Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas
1. Walking hand-in-hand
A simple walk with your partner always photographs beautifully. It keeps you moving and helps you forget the camera is even there.
2. Gentle bump hold
Hands resting naturally on your belly, shoulders relaxed, soft smile or even eyes closed—this pose is calm and timeless.
3. Laughing mid-conversation
The in-between moments often become favorites. Don’t hold back laughter; it makes your photos feel real and alive.
4. Barefoot in the grass
Something about connecting with the earth, especially at golden hour, instantly makes your photos feel calm and grounded.
5. Partner’s hands over yours
Have your partner rest their hands over yours while you both cradle your bump. Simple, but powerful.
6. Soft twirl in a flowy dress
Let the fabric move—it adds life and natural motion to your photos.
7. Profile in soft light
A gentle side profile shows off your beautiful bump and creates an elegant, flattering silhouette.
8. Sitting moment
Take a seat on a blanket or smooth rock, lean slightly forward, and let your hair fall naturally. These quiet moments often hold the most emotion.
9. Forehead to forehead
Close your eyes, breathe, and be still together. It’s a pose that instantly reconnects you.
10. Looking down at your bump
I love when moms take a quiet second to look down—it’s instinctive and tender.
Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas with Nature & Light
11. Wading in shallow water
Step into a lake or river just enough for the water to touch your ankles. The reflections create soft, romantic light that feels peaceful and free.
Pro tip: Walk slowly to create natural ripples and movement in your dress.
12. Hands resting on your bump while seated
Sitting on a blanket or a smooth rock grounds the moment and adds calm energy.
13. Laughing over your shoulder
Have your partner say something sweet or funny—those genuine glances are always magic.
14. Partner’s gentle embrace
A soft hug from behind, hands intertwined, both of you looking toward the light.
15. Close-up of details
Your hands, your rings, a lock of hair—these quiet in-between details make your gallery personal and timeless.
16. Golden hour walk
Walk toward the sunset with one hand on your belly and the other free. Movement catches the light in the most beautiful way.
17. Soft twirl at sunset
If your dress flows, let it move. A gentle spin with the breeze gives photos a cinematic feel.
18. Looking back over your shoulder
Turn slightly toward the camera, eyes soft, hair catching the light—effortless and elegant.
19. Forehead kiss
A soft kiss on the forehead says love and anticipation without words.
20. Laughing while walking together
Talk, laugh, connect. The best photos happen when you forget the camera exists.
Emotional & Romantic Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas
21. Whispering to your baby
Whisper a name, a wish, or a little “I can’t wait to meet you.” It’s simple, but deeply emotional.
22. Leaning on your partner’s shoulder
A gentle lean while holding your bump gives your photos a calm, loving tone.
23. Silhouette at sunset
As the light fades, step into profile. The curve of your bump against the sky is pure art.
Pro tip: Slightly separate your feet and bend one knee—it creates a flattering curve.
24. Sitting together on a blanket
Bring a soft blanket and sit close together. These cozy, quiet moments often end up as favorites.
25. Gentle kiss on the temple
Small gestures capture the biggest emotions.
26. Holding a bouquet of wildflowers
A handful of wildflowers adds organic texture and color—especially when they’re locally picked.
27. Barefoot in a field
Ground yourself and relax. There’s something about being barefoot that changes your energy completely.
28. Partner’s hand tracing your belly
A subtle, affectionate gesture that instantly feels intimate.
29. Looking out into the distance
You don’t have to smile for every photo. The still, reflective moments are just as powerful.
30. Laughing while dancing together
Even a few seconds of dancing brings joy and life to your gallery.
Family & Lifestyle Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas
31. Little hands on your bump
If you have another child, let them rest their hands or head against your belly. It’s tender and emotional.
32. Walking as a family
A walk together feels natural, candid, and full of connection.
33. Partner lifting your child
This adds laughter, height, and fun—balancing the soft moments with energy.
34. Holding your child while smiling at your partner
A classic family moment that always feels timeless.
35. Family cuddle
The “everyone in” moment—arms everywhere, full of love.
36. Running through the field
Let your little one run ahead while you walk behind, hands on your belly. It’s pure storytelling.
37. Standing still, soaking it all in
End your session quietly—eyes closed, one deep breath, feeling your baby move. That’s the shot you’ll keep coming back to.
What to Wear: Pregnancy Photoshoot Ideas
Choosing what to wear can feel like the hardest part—but it doesn’t have to. The best outfits are the ones that make you feel comfortable, confident, and connected to your surroundings.
Neutrals Always Win
Creams, tans, sage, olive, blush, and soft gray photograph beautifully in natural light. These tones keep the focus on you and the emotion of the moment.
Fabrics That Move
Flowy materials like linen or cotton gauze catch the light and move with you. Avoid stiff fabrics that limit motion—we want to see that gentle sway.
Show the Bump
Wrap dresses flatter your shape beautifully with a open space to show off your beautiful bump.
Keep It Simple for Partners and Kids
For partners, think timeless basics: solid shirts, rolled sleeves, soft tones. For little ones, neutral textures and barefoot or neutral colored shoes. Avoid bright sneakers with logos that can be distracting.
Accessories That Add Subtle Style
A knit shawl, wide-brim hat, or bouquet of wildflowers can add texture without distraction. Keep jewelry simple and meaningful.
When in Doubt, Ask for Guidance
When clients book with me, I share a curated wardrobe guide and Pinterest board filled with combinations that photograph beautifully together. It’s one of my favorite parts of the process—seeing your style come to life.
RELATED POST: What to Wear For Your Maternity Session
When to Schedule Your Session
The sweet spot for maternity photos is usually between 28 and 34 weeks. You’ll have a beautiful, visible bump while still feeling comfortable enough to move easily. If you’re expecting multiples or have a high-risk pregnancy, aim a little earlier.
Photoshoot Ideas for Pregnancy
Maternity sessions are about so much more than pretty photos, they’re about remembering this exact chapter: the waiting, the excitement, the love that’s already growing.
These pregnancy photoshoot ideas are meant to guide you, but the best photos will always come from being yourself. Laugh, breathe, let go of the pressure. That’s where the best photos are created.
RELATED POST: Pregnancy photoshoot ideas in motion → Check out my youtube channel for full films.
Ready to get started?
If you’re dreaming of maternity photos that feel relaxed, beautiful, and artfully captured, I’d love to create that for you. I’ll guide you through every detail—from choosing your wardrobe to selecting heirloom prints that arrive ready to display in your home.
Inquire to begin your experience → Contact Me Here
