Pregnancy is a life-changing moment in a new mom’s life. And if you’re like a growing number of parents, you want to remember this time forever with the help of maternity photos. If you’re looking for a unique approach to a pregnancy photo shoot, maternity boudoir photography could be a good fit.

Boudoir photography is a growing trend that celebrates body positivity and boosts confidence. And for pregnant mamas, a boudoir session is an incredible way to honor your body’s power and evolution.

There are so many benefits of maternity boudoir photography, so keep reading to learn more about what it is and whether or not it’s right for you.

What Is Maternity Boudoir Photography?

Maternity boudoir photography is a type of photography that captures the beauty and sensuality of a pregnant woman’s body. It is a celebration of the female form during this unique and special time in a woman’s life. 

Boudoir photography typically captures your image while wearing lingerie or other garments that highlight your curves and the beauty of your ever-changing body. Images can be taken in full color or black and white to create a timeless, classic feel. They may focus on one part of your body (like that beautiful belly!) or on your entire form.

A maternity boudoir photo shoot is the ultimate celebration of new life and a confidence-boosting way to pamper yourself before the baby comes.

Is maternity boudoir photography right for me?

Only you can decide if a boudoir maternity session is right for you, but I can share my insight as an Omaha boudoir photographer. As long as you choose a professional, experienced photographer who makes you feel comfortable and safe, a maternity boudoir session can be an incredibly empowering experience.

My clients report feeling more confident, more comfortable in their skin, and more appreciative of their bodies after a maternity shoot. 

How to Prepare for a Boudoir Maternity Photoshoot

The key to a successful boudoir maternity session is lots of preparation. Use these tips to make sure you’re ready for the spotlight on the day of your photo shoot.

Choose the Right Photographer

This is always the most important step. The photographer you work with can not only make-or-break the photos themselves, but the entire experience. 

Make sure you seek a boudoir photographer with lots of experience, good reviews and a portfolio you love. Every photographer has their own style, so be sure to take time to explore their work and determine if your styles align.

Pay close attention to safeguards your photographer has in place as well. A boudoir photo session is an intimate, often nerve-wracking experience. You want a photographer who is committed to client privacy, safety and comfort above all else.

At my Omaha, NE boudoir studio, for example, I ensure my client’s privacy is always protected. The studio address is not shared until you book, privacy blinds are installed throughout the studio so you feel comfortable walking around and my Instagram account is private.

Schedule Your Maternity Boudoir Session at the Right Time

Timing is important when it comes to a maternity boudoir photoshoot. You want to schedule the shoot when you feel your best and are comfortable in your pregnancy. Many women choose to schedule their shoot between 28-34 weeks, when their belly is round and prominent, but they are not yet too uncomfortable. If you wait too long, you may not feel up for a photoshoot, or your belly may have dropped, making it harder to capture the right angles.

Choose Maternity Boudoir Outfits

One of the biggest questions I get as a boudoir maternity photographer is about what kind of outfits are best for boudoir photos. But the truth is there’s really no one right option – it’s totally personalized to what you want and how you feel most comfortable.

Maternity lingerie is definitely the most common outfit to option for boudoir shoots, but it’s not the only choice. A beautiful robe, body-baring dress or even just a button-down shirt can all help create truly beautiful photos that show off your curves. Some moms even choose to take nude or implied nude photos as part of their boudoir session. 

Talk to your photographer about the look you’re going for and get their insight on the right outfits for your photos. When I work with clients in my Omaha boudoir studio, for example, I’m always happy to recommend local and online shops to explore for clothing options.

Before You Arrive

Make sure before you arrive at your maternity boudoir photography session that you’ve prepared your body in whatever way makes you feel comfortable. Things like hair removal, manicures and pedicures should all be taken care of in advance of your session. Be sure to stay hydrated and do plenty of moisturizing before the session, too.

Arrive Early

I always recommend my clients arrive early to their session. This helps ensure you feel comfortable in the studio space and gives you time to get past any jitters you may have when you first arrive.

Get Hair and Make-Up

While professional hair and makeup isn’t required for maternity boudoir photos, I always recommend it. After all, who doesn’t love to get pampered?! And as a pregnant mama, you deserve it! At my studio, I work with a hair-and-makeup artist to help you get ready for your photos right in my studio.

Understand Maternity Boudoir Poses

Pregnancy can make it challenging to find the right poses and angles, but practicing beforehand can help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Consider practicing in front of a mirror if you’re feeling nervous. You can also look for inspiration online and create a Pinterest board of poses and styles that you like.

But as long as you take time choosing a great photographer, don’t stress about knowing or practicing poses. Your photographer should be able to describe and even demonstrate every pose for you to make it easy for you to have fun, relax and feel beautiful during your session.

Relax and Have Fun

Finally, remember to relax and have fun during your maternity boudoir photoshoot. This is a special time in your life, and you want to enjoy the experience. Take deep breaths, trust your photographer, and allow yourself to be in the moment. The more relaxed and confident you feel, the better your photos will turn out!

Ways to Use Maternity Boudoir Photos

There are so many ways to use your maternity photos once you’ve had them taken. And it’s best to think about how you’ll make use of these photos before your session. The last thing you want is gorgeous boudoir photos going to waste sitting on your hard drive! 

Maternity Album

This is one my favorite products to recommend to my maternity boudoir clients. Creating a custom album with your images is a wonderful way to create a personal keepsake you can treasure for years to come. Imagine being able to look back on this time and the power of your body any time you need a confidence boost – it’s truly priceless!

Maternity Wall Print

Maternity boudoir photography is also beautiful for displaying on the wall. While many people don’t want to put boudoir photos in their main living areas, they work really well for master bedrooms, bathrooms or walk-in closets. Photos can be printed on all kinds of surfaces today that match your personal style, from metal or wood prints to traditional canvas.

Framed Photo

A framed photo is always a classic way to showcase your maternity photos. Keep one for yourself to remember this time in your life, or give as a gift to your partner. Either way, you’ll celebrate this special period in your relationship.

Maternity Boudoir Photography FAQs

If you’ve never done boudoir photography before, it’s normal to have a ton of questions (and be a little nervous!). Keep reading for answers to some of the most common questions I get as an Omaha boudoir photographer.

When should I do maternity boudoir photos?

The key with timing maternity boudoir photography is to make sure you’re far enough along that you look clearly pregnant. You want to be able to highlight all your glorious curves! But you also don’t want to be overly uncomfortable or so tired that posing is difficult.

I generally recommend scheduling your session between 28-34 weeks of pregnancy. Make sure you reach out early in your pregnancy, though, to schedule photos. Many boudoir photographers book out weeks and even months in advance.

What if I have the baby early?

This is another reason I recommend taking photos by about 34 weeks of pregnancy – you’re much less likely to have your baby before your session. If you somehow do have your baby before your session, don’t worry! I offer newborn photography, family photo sessions and traditional boudoir sessions. A post-partum boudoir session would still be a beautiful way to celebrate everything your body has done over the months of pregnancy.

Do you do newborn photography?

Yes, I do! I love working with families from engagements and weddings all the way through having kids. My newborn photography sessions are some of my favorites. As a mom, I know how quickly the newborn phase passes and how precious those first few weeks are. I’d be honored to help capture that time in your family’s life.

Ready to book your maternity boudoir photography session?

A maternity boudoir photo shoot can be a beautiful way to celebrate and capture the beauty of pregnancy. By choosing the right photographer, scheduling the shoot at the right time, choosing the right outfits and relaxing and having fun, you can ensure that your photos turn out beautifully and capture this special time in your life.

If you’re ready to book your maternity photos and you’re in the Omaha, NE area, contact me today to learn more and check my availability.