One of the things I love about my work as a Boston area family photographer is the built-in variety. Every family has their own style and personality. And Massachusetts has a vast range of beautiful settings to choose from. 

As part of the application to apply for Master Certification in Maternity Photography, I had to submit a collection of twenty-five unique images from my portfolio featuring different pregnant people, settings, and poses. 

The process of selecting these images had me reflecting on how different maternity photos can look and feel depending on the location you choose. 

If you’re expecting and starting to think about your lifestyle maternity session, this post is for you. I’m sharing some thoughts on maternity photo settings so you can figure out which type of session fits your family best. 

In-Home Maternity Sessions

Taking maternity photos in your home will give your images a cozy and personal feel. Because your home is where you spend a lot of your time, your pictures will capture the experience of your pregnancy authentically. You can incorporate items and backdrops that have a lot of meaning. You can even take photos in the nursery that can be recreated with your baby in your arms during your newborn session!

In-home maternity sessions are also the winner in terms of logistics and convenience. Here are just some of the reasons why: 

• You’ll have zero worries about footwear, and your swollen feet will thank you. 
• Quick wardrobe changes are a breeze!
• You can get some bare-belly shots in the privacy of your own space.
• Pets of all kinds can participate. 
• Siblings are often more comfortable in their own space. 
• You have a bathroom at the ready. 
• Indoor sessions can happen in any season and in any weather. 

Boston City Maternity Sessions

Boston’s wide variety of backdrops makes it easy to fit a lot into a city maternity session. For example, you can begin at the iconic bridge in the Boston Public Garden before heading to Beacon Hill’s cobblestone streets and finish the session at the esplanade for an open skyline—all within an hour. 

If the city means a lot to you and your story, it can be an extra special setting for your session. Cityscapes also have a sophisticated, modern look. And they look good at all times of the year because the focus is on the architectural elements, which don’t change with the season. The contrast between the softness of pregnancy and the angular buildings can create artistic and cool shots. You can even grab a few photos inside a favorite coffee shop or bookstore (and use their restroom!). 

Beach Maternity Sessions

If you are looking for a dramatic, elegant setting for your maternity photographs, the beach is where it’s at. The wide-open landscape offers sweeping views, gorgeous sunsets, and uncluttered views. 

The beach’s neutral backdrop (think tan sand and muted seagrass) helps people really pop in the shots. There are very few “distractions” in the landscape, so the focus is on you and your bump. As a photographer, it’s also easy to play with light and get some stunning images. 

The serene water elements call to mind the pregnancy and birth experience. Mom can even get in the water for some goddess-style magical shots at the end. Flowy dresses and bare feet are the perfect attire for a beach session. 

You can also effortlessly turn your session into a memory. The beach is fun for older siblings if you have other children. It’s also a beautiful setting for a romantic date. 

Remember that weather will be more of a factor with a beach session and that you’ll need to plan the shoot for sunrise or sunset to get the best light. 

Park & Field Outdoor Maternity Sessions

Many parents-to-be choose a park, field, or garden setting for their maternity session. These settings are perfect for showcasing the season you are in as you anticipate the arrival of your new baby!

Each season in New England has its charm—spring’s blossoms, summer’s lush greenery,  fall’s colorful foliage, and winter’s golden brown sunsets. As a photographer, I have experienced the beauty of so many amazing spots across Massachusetts. I can advise you on which ones will showcase the season you are in best. 

You must be willing to embrace the season you are in—which means bundling up between shots in the winter and expecting to get a little dewy in the summer. But it’s all worth seeing how that golden hour light and those natural elements give your outdoor maternity photographs a magical feel.

What lifestyle maternity photography setting are you drawn to?

If you’re still on the fence, here are a few questions to ask yourself to decide which setting is best for your maternity session: 

• What season will it be during my third trimester? Do I want to be outdoors in that season?
• Is there a particular location that means a lot to my growing family?
• Do I have other children or pets who will be in the photos? How will they acclimate to an outdoor setting or a sunrise/sunset session?
• How would I characterize my style? Chic and trendy, earthy-crunchy, cozy and casual? 
• Which images am I drawn to in my photographer’s portfolio?

I’d love to help you find the perfect backdrop for your maternity session. Reach out today for availability and get your date on the calendar!

Contact me.