Tips on How to Have A Beautiful Maternity Photo Session – Phoenix, AZ Maternity Photography
Pregnancy is such a beautiful time in a soon-to-be parent’s life! I remember my pregnancies like they were yesterday. I was so excited to welcome my babies into this world. When I became pregnant for the very first time, I wasn’t a maternity photographer. I didn’t know how special capturing this stage in life was, and before I knew it, it flew by. I only have three cellphone photos to remember my pregnancy. I still regret not getting professional maternity photos.
Now, throughout the years, I’ve learned a few things—and one of them is to NEVER skip professional photos for any special stage in life.
If you’re looking for a maternity photographer in Phoenix, opting for a studio photoshoot is the best and safest way to get an elegant, stress-free experience with complete control over lighting, temperature, and artistic direction. It’s Arizona—no one wants to be outside in the summer or for eight months out of the year, for that matter! Plus, when you’re pregnant, you’re more sensitive, so anything outside could cause an allergic reaction, or something worse could happen—like a snake bite (yikes!).
A professional studio provides a luxurious and comfortable setting, where it doesn’t matter how hot it is outside. This helps expecting mothers feel at ease while getting timeless images in a controlled environment. Unlike outdoor shoots, a studio provides privacy, climate control, and endless creative possibilities! Best part? Studio lighting can create a sunset effect, spotlight effect, soft lighting—you name it! It really is the best option
Choosing the Right Maternity Photographer in Phoenix
Finding the right photographer in Phoenix requires lots of research and careful consideration. When you’re looking for a photographer, focus on:
- Portfolio & Style – Does the photographer specialize in fine-art maternity portraits, classic studio setups, or editorial-style images? Do you love their style?
- Studio Environment – Check whether they offer backdrops, lighting setups, and maternity gowns, or a full-service experience like hair and makeup for a seamless session! You want to be able to walk in and have everything taken care of without stressing over the details.
- Client Reviews & Testimonials – Past client reviews can give you insight into the photographer’s professionalism, creativity, and overall experience. Be sure to read them carefully!
Here’s a tip: Look for a maternity photographer who understands how to pose and light expecting mothers to create flattering, artistic, and emotion-filled images. Find someone who prioritizes maternity safety, listens to YOUR body, and ensures you are never uncomfortable during the session.ocess.
Why Choose a Studio for Your Maternity Photoshoot?
Unlike outdoor locations, which can be unpredictable due to weather (Ugh, AZ heat!), harsh sunlight, and crowded areas, a professional studio is the best choice because…
✅ Controlled Lighting: You can create just about anything with artificial lighting! Whether it’s soft, Hollywood-style, artistic, or even dramatic color gels. Plus, you can adjust the lighting as needed for the perfect look.
✅ Privacy & Comfort: No need to worry about people staring at you or bugs flying into your mouth (seriously, it happens!). In a studio, you have complete privacy—you can change outfits, use the bathroom as often as needed, and take breaks whenever you want.
✅ Props & Wardrobe Access: Many studios (like ours!) provide maternity gowns, silk fabrics, crowns, floral arrangements, and more. You’re not limited to just one background (like a desert, where you’re done after one look). Instead, you can go from high-fashion to elegant to floral and create a variety of stunning looks!
✅ No Weather Stress: No need to reschedule due to extreme Phoenix heat or unexpected rain (those haboobs have ruined some of my shoots in the past!).
Best Studio Setup Ideas for Maternity Photos
When booking your maternity photos, consider the following studio setups for your session:
1. Classic White Backdrop
A white studio backdrop is a timeless and minimalistic choice. It creates an angelic, light-filled aesthetic that highlights the natural beauty of pregnancy.
2. Dramatic Fine-Art Lighting
Low-key lighting with a black background gives off a very VOGUE, moody, and elegant feel—perfect for drop-dead gorgeous portraits.
3. Silhouette Portraits
Using backlit techniques, you can capture stunning silhouettes that emphasize your curves in an artistic and striking way.
4. Draped Fabric & Flowing Gowns
Long, flowing fabrics or sheer drapes add movement to the image, creating a soft, dreamy, and ethereal look.
5. Luxe Boudoir Maternity Session
For moms who want to celebrate their femininity and body, a maternity boudoir session with lace, silk robes, and soft lighting creates an intimate, romantic, and empowering feel.
What to Wear for a Studio Photoshoot?
Your wardrobe plays a major role in creating stunning images—it’s what makes or breaks a photo!
But you might be thinking, “Gabby, what the heck do I wear?” No worries! Here are some studio-friendly outfit ideas to make you look and feel amazing:
Form-Fitting Gowns
These highlight your baby bump beautifully and are perfect for silhouettes. Think of a sleek black fitted dress that contours your body and enhances your natural curves.
✨ Silk Drapes or Flowing Fabrics
Adds elegance and movement to your photos. Imagine silk being thrown in the air behind you or draped at your side like a mermaid tail—pure magic!
✨ Black or White Bodysuits
A sleek, fashion-forward look! These are perfect for creating bold, editorial-style maternity portraits. They also pair beautifully with colored lighting for a modern and artistic vibe.
✨ Lace & Sheer Materials
Soft, delicate, and dreamy. Lace and sheer fabrics add texture and give your images an angelic, ethereal feel. Perfect for a romantic and timeless look.
✨ Floral Chiffon
For a soft, boho, or whimsical feel, floral chiffon dresses or wraps create a light and airy look, ideal for a garden goddess aesthetic in the studio.
✨ Artistic Nude Shots
If you want to celebrate your body in the most raw and beautiful way, artistic nude maternity portraits are an elegant and empowering choice. Using soft lighting and strategic posing, these images highlight the beauty of motherhood in its purest form.
✨ Comfy Cotton or Maxi Dresses
For a more relaxed and effortless look, flowy cotton or maxi dresses create a soft, natural look while keeping you comfortable throughout the session.
I provide wardrobe styling assistance and have a curated collection of maternity dresses available in my studio so you look and feel your best during your session.
P.S. I made a Pinterest board with maternity outfit ideas—check it out here
And if you want a full guide on what to wear and what looks best, grab my Maternity Style Guide
Hair & Makeup for a Studio Maternity Session
When it comes to makeup, I highly recommend going for a soft glam or glam look. This is because photos tend to mute makeup. When you see yourself in the mirror, it may feel like a lot, but trust that a skilled makeup artist knows how to create ‘photo-ready makeup,’ which is entirely different from ‘everyday makeup.’
Hair is just as important! The hairstyle should match the mood of the photo, but in most cases, soft, loose curls work beautifully in any shot. Here’s my advice:
- Soft Glam Appearance – Neutral tones, with hints of gold or copper, a lipstick that’s two shades deeper than your natural lip color (or even a classic red), paired with a soft blush for a radiant touch.
- Styled Hair – Whether it’s a sleek bun, loose waves, or a style that complements your outfit and mood board, the right hairdo enhances your overall look.
- Matte Finish Makeup – This prevents unwanted shine under artificial lighting. Matte finishes work best for professional photography because they help control oil and helps your skin looks smooth and flawless under studio lights. A subtle highlighter on the high points of your face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow) can add just the right amount of glow without looking overly shiny.
- Final Touch: Don’t forget setting spray! A long-lasting, lightweight setting spray will lock in your makeup, helping it stay fresh and perfect throughout the entire shoot.
If you’re unsure about what works best for your face shape and features, trust your makeup artist—they know exactly how to enhance your natural beauty for the camera!
Posing Tips for Studio Photos
Your maternity photographer will guide you through poses, but here are a few flattering studio maternity poses:
Your maternity photographer will guide you through poses, but following are a few of the most becoming studio pregnancy poses:
🤰 Cradling Baby: Most traditional, with your baby and your bond in the spotlight.
🌟 Side Profile: Flattering pregnancy silhouette to perfection.
🤍 Soft Seated Positions: Sitting in a studio bench, or even on a floor, for a relaxed, intimate expression.
💫 Looking down at your tummy: a relaxed, warm position conveying motherly love.
👨👩👦 Partner and family integration: Having your older kids and your partner join in for meaningful experiences.
Packages & Pricing
Studio maternity photography sessions can vary in price based on:
- Session Duration: Some photographers offer 1-hour mini sessions, while others provide full luxury experiences.
- Number of Edited Images: Packages may include a set number of high-resolution images with retouching.
- Wardrobe & Props Access: Some studios provide maternity dresses, silk drapes, and backdrops.
- Prints & Albums: Our clients always invest in fine-art prints or albums. There’s just something magic about holding your images in your hand, versus scrolling on your phone and viewing them.
Expect pricing to range from $300 to $2500+, depending on the level of service and inclusions.
How to Prepare for Your Photoshoot
BE READY WITH:
✅ Inspiration – Bring pictures or notes to show the artist if you have a specific vision in mind.
✅ A Fresh Face – Wash and moisturize your face before your session. Please arrive with no makeup.
✅ Clean, Dry Hair – Wash your hair beforehand and let it dry completely. (Wet hair cannot be styled.)
🚫 Avoid putting your hair in a ponytail after washing and drying.
✅ Freshly Colored Roots – If you color your hair, do a touch-up about a week before your session. (Unblended roots will be noticeable in photos!)
✅ Excitement! You’re going to look amazing!
DO NOT:
❌ Try New Products – Avoid using any new skincare products before your session to prevent unexpected breakouts or reactions.
❌ Get a Chemical Peel – Avoid peels or strong exfoliations the week of your session.
❌ Skip SPF – Protect your skin! Wear at least SPF 50 if you’ll be in the sun the week before your shoot to prevent redness or peeling.
❌ Drastically Change Your Hair – Stick to your normal hair routine. If you make a big change too close to your session, you might not love how it looks on camera.
🚫 Do NOT put any products in your hair before your session. Your stylist will apply heat protectant, hairspray, and texturizing spray for volume. Arriving with pre-applied products can make styling difficult, causing greasy roots and flat hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ When is the best time for a maternity photoshoot?
The ideal timeframe is between 28 to 32 weeks—when your baby bump is beautifully visible, but before you start feeling too uncomfortable.
❓ How long will a studio session last?
Most studio sessions take about 90 minutes for the photoshoot, plus an additional 1.5 hours for hair and makeup. Afterward, we sit together to review your images and select your favorites, based on your package.
❓ Can my partner and children join?
Absolutely! I always encourage family participation to make the session even more special and meaningful.
❓ Do studio photographers provide maternity dresses?
Some studios offer a client wardrobe filled with beautiful maternity gowns, fabrics, and accessories. I always recommend bringing your own clothing first, then mixing and matching with our studio options. Clients are also welcome to try on outfits a week or two before their session.
❓ Should I book hair and makeup services?
If you’re booking with Gabby Canario Portraits, there’s no need—we provide professional hair and makeup for you! If you’re booking elsewhere, check if your photographer offers this service. If not, I highly recommend scheduling hair and makeup in advance for the best results.