Maternity Photographer in St Albans
/Most Common Questions About Maternity & Pregnancy Photo Shoots
Booking a maternity photo shoot can feel exciting… and a little overwhelming. As a St Albans maternity photographer, I’m asked the same questions again and again by expectant mums who want beautiful, natural images but aren’t quite sure what to expect.
So if you’ve been wondering whether a maternity or newborn shoot is right for you, here are the answers to the most common questions I hear.
When is the best time to book a maternity photo shoot?
The ideal time for a maternity session is usually between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, your bump is beautifully rounded, and most mums still feel comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.
I always recommend booking your maternity shoot earlier in your pregnancy to ensure availability, especially if you’re also considering newborn photos later on. Many families I photograph return to me as their St Albans newborn photographer, creating a lovely continuity in their images.
What should I wear for my maternity photo shoot?
This is one of the biggest worries — and one I help with every time.
Soft, neutral tones, flowing fabrics, and simple layers photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you and your bump. I’ll guide you through outfit choices before your session so you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself.
Can my partner or children be included?
Absolutely. Maternity photography isn’t just about the bump — it’s about your growing family.
Partners, toddlers, and siblings are always welcome to join your maternity session. Including them often creates the most natural and emotional images, especially if this isn’t your first baby.
I feel awkward in front of the camera – is that a problem?
Not at all. Most of the mums I work with say this before their session.
You don’t need to know how to pose or “perform” for the camera. I gently guide you throughout the shoot, keeping everything relaxed and natural, so nothing feels forced or uncomfortable.
Where do maternity photo shoots take place?
Maternity sessions can take place in your home, outdoors, or in my cosy natural light studio, whichever feels most like you.
We’ll clearly plan this together so the location suits your personality, comfort level, and the style of images you’re drawn to.
Should I book a newborn photo shoot as well?
If you love natural, meaningful images, booking a newborn session alongside your maternity shoot is a lovely way to tell the full story.
As a St Albans newborn photographer, I specialise in relaxed, baby-led newborn photography, usually in your home, capturing those fleeting early days in a gentle and unhurried way.
Final thoughts
If you’ve been thinking “Should I book a maternity or newborn photo shoot?” — this is your sign.
These moments pass more quickly than we ever expect, and having photographs to look back on is something so many mums say they’re grateful they invested in.
Pregnancy is emotional, tiring, powerful, and transformative — and all of that is worth documenting. As a St Albans maternity photographer, my role is to capture you honestly and beautifully, exactly as you are in this season.
If you’d like to chat about booking a maternity or newborn session with a St Albans maternity photographer, I’d love to hear from you.
