Should I Book an Outdoor or Studio Maternity Photo Shoot?
/Pregnancy Photo Sessions in Hertfordshire.
One of the most common questions I hear from expectant mums is:
“Should I book an outdoor maternity photo shoot or a studio session?”
The honest answer? There’s no right or wrong — it’s about choosing the experience (and images) that feel most you. Both options create beautiful maternity photographs, just in slightly different ways.
If you’re feeling unsure, here’s a gentle breakdown to help you decide.
Outdoor Maternity Photo Shoots in St Albans
Outdoor maternity photo shoots are perfect if you love natural light, fresh air, and a relaxed, documentary feel.
Why Choose an Outdoor Session?
Outdoor sessions tend to feel very organic and unposed. We can walk, pause, chat, and let moments unfold naturally.
They’re ideal if you:
love natural, earthy tones
want your photos to feel calm and timeless
enjoy being outside, even for a gentle stroll
would like to include your partner or dog
Nature adds its own magic — soft light, open space, and movement — which often helps mums feel more at ease, especially if being photographed feels a little daunting.
Things to Consider
Outdoor sessions are weather dependent, and while soft clouds can be beautiful, heavy rain may mean rescheduling. That said, I always guide you on the best timing and locations so everything feels easy and stress-free.
Studio Maternity Photo Shoots
Studio maternity photo shoots are all about simplicity, comfort, and control. They’re a wonderful option if you prefer a more polished, intimate look.
Why Choose a Studio Session?
Studio sessions create clean, elegant maternity photographs that focus entirely on you and your bump.
They’re ideal if you:
prefer a minimalist or classic style
want a warm, comfortable environment
feel more confident indoors
love soft fabrics, neutral backdrops, and gentle posing
Studios are also a great choice later in pregnancy, as everything is close by — no walking, no weather worries, just time to slow down and enjoy the experience.
Things to Consider
Studio images tend to feel more styled and posed than outdoor sessions, which some mums love and others don’t. If you’re drawn to emotion and movement, outdoor photography may feel more natural.
Which Maternity Photo Shoot Is Best?
Ask yourself these simple questions:
Where do I feel most relaxed — indoors or outdoors?
Do I imagine soft, natural scenery or clean, timeless backdrops?
Do I want a lifestyle feel or a more classic portrait style?
Your answers usually make the decision very clear.
A Final Reassurance
If you’re worried about choosing “wrong”, try not to be 🤍
The most important thing is that you book a maternity photo shoot that feels comfortable, calm, and supportive. When you feel at ease, the photographs naturally reflect that.
If you’d like help deciding between an outdoor or studio maternity photo shoot — or want to talk through what would suit you best — I’m always happy to chat.
Get in touch to book your maternity photography session and capture this fleeting chapter in a way that feels truly you.