How to Choose the Perfect Maternity Photography Location

Photographing your pregnancy in the most beautiful and magical way possible, huh?

Choosing a maternity photo location is one of the most important decisions of your pregnancy photo shoot. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the possible options that are out there!

Here’s the thing…

The right location goes way beyond pretty backdrops and popular photography trends. The best location choice is the one that helps you create the most meaningful, gorgeous images that capture your unique story, and make you feel totally comfortable.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Why Your Maternity Photo Location Is So Important
• Top 5 Locations That Work Best (&Examples)
• Tips to Match Your Personality With the Perfect Location
• Where to Find Maternity Photography Locations
• What to Look for In a Location
• Common Maternity Photo Location Mistakes to Avoid
• How to Choose the Perfect Maternity Photo Location

Let’s get into it.

Why Your Maternity Photo Location Is So Important

Maternity photos are so much more than just images. Your pregnancy photos will last a lifetime, and it’s so important to make them as special and beautiful as possible.

Choosing the right location is a huge part of that because it sets the entire mood and vibe for the entire shoot.

The right location can really make all the difference, taking a simple photo from “okay” to wow, and it can be the thing that really transports you back to exactly how you felt during that moment in your pregnancy.

But wait there’s more…

Did you know that according to the American Association of Maternity Photographers (AAMP), over 70% of expectant parents want maternity and newborn photos that capture real emotion and an intimate connection rather than just posed perfection?

Your location choice is more important than ever because it’s the key to getting those genuine, in-the-moment moments that everyone wants in their maternity photos. Professional maternity photographers see dozens of different location options every day, so they know the ones that work the best and will really let you shine.

When you’re comfortable and relaxed, that’s when your photographer will be able to capture those magical moments. Those real-life smiles, gentle touches, and that beautiful pregnancy glow will come out naturally.

The right location will also help to better tell the story of your maternity journey. Are you a nature lover? A city girl at heart? Someone who thrives on the peace and quiet of your own home? When you’re ready to book your maternity session, being at a location that reflects your personal style and who YOU are as a person will make all the difference in getting the most meaningful and beautiful results.

Top 5 Locations That Work Best (&Examples)

Now that you know why location is so important, let’s take a look at what types of locations will work best. Here are the 5 most popular choices that consistently turn out amazing:

• Outdoor natural locations
• Studio
• Urban locations
• Beach/waterfront
• Your own home

Outdoor natural locations

Outdoor natural scenery is a classic for a reason. From beautiful gardens and parks, to beaches and open fields, the natural beauty and soft, golden-hour sunlight is unbeatable. Seasonal variation in flowers and foliage also allows for diverse photography options.

Pro tip: Spring and Fall are the best seasons for outdoor maternity shoots.

Studio

Don’t underestimate the magic of a professional photography studio. Studio work has the advantage of soft, even lighting, clean backgrounds, a comfortable indoor temperature, and professional-grade equipment.

Urban locations

Urban settings and city backdrops are great for striking, editorial-style maternity photography. From brick walls and tree-lined streets, to rooftops with sweeping city views and historic buildings.

Beach/waterfront

Waterfront locations, whether a beach or other bodies of water, provide endless horizons, romantic sunset lighting, flowing fabric blowing in ocean breezes, and a classic and timeless feel.

Your own home

And of course, one of the most meaningful locations for maternity photos is right at home. You can capture intimate moments with your partner and your family in your own living room, features of the nursery you’ve prepared, details of your everyday life, and have the complete privacy of your own home.

How to Match Your Personality to the Perfect Location

Here’s a secret that most photographers won’t tell you…

The most stunning maternity photos are the ones where your personality and the location choice are in perfect harmony.

Are you someone who feels most confident and beautiful outdoors? Go for an outdoor location like a garden or park. Do you love to get all dolled up for the camera? An elegant urban location or a professional photography studio may be just what you’re looking for.

If you’re more of a homebody who feels most at ease in the comfort of your own space, then that’s where your maternity photos should be too. Don’t let anyone tell you that your photos have to be in some fancy location for them to be “great”. The most beautiful maternity photos can be taken right in the comfort of your own living room or backyard garden.

Think about the places where you feel most relaxed and yourself. What locations do you frequent that make you naturally happy and smile? Is there anywhere special that has meaning to you and your family? For example, where you had your first date, had a proposal, or were married?

Trends and photography styles may come and go, but your personality and true YOU is timeless.

Tips on Where to Find Maternity Photography Locations

Want to nail down your location choice? Here are some tips on where to look:

• Visit the spot at the time of day you’ll be shooting
• Consider the current season and what it will look like at the time of your session
• Take into account how easy it is to access. Think about walking distance to parking and bathrooms, for example.
• Check to see if you need permits to take photos in certain locations.
• Have a weather backup plan. Have an indoor alternative just in case!

Because they photograph all kinds of different locations day in and day out, professional maternity photographers know which locations work the best. They also know which locations will be the best match for your unique personality. With portrait photography comprising 40% of all professional photography sessions, professional photographers have a wealth of experience to draw from when choosing a location for you.

Common Maternity Photo Location Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes people make when it comes to maternity photo locations:

• Picking a location based on Pinterest (or Instagram) alone
• Choosing a location that doesn’t match your body type, the season of your pregnancy, or your personal photography style.
• Ignoring important comfort factors like pregnancy fatigue and weather.
• Forgetting to plan ahead and that timing is everything.
• Not taking into account your own wardrobe style.
• Overlooking locations that hold personal meaning to you.

Making the Final Choice

When you’re ready to make your decision on where to have your maternity photos, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Think about the story you want to tell with your photos
• Trust your gut and choose the place that makes you feel most excited and most confident and beautiful.
• Don’t be afraid to combine multiple locations to mix it up!
• Remember that you can change your mind at any time. It’s normal to have second thoughts.

Above all, choose a location where you can just be you and where you will feel relaxed, comfortable, and genuinely happy. Those are the photos that always turn out the best.

Wrapping Up

There you have it! The biggest takeaway is that when it comes to picking the perfect maternity photography location, it’s more than just how pretty it looks on Instagram.

The best location is the one that makes YOU feel most amazing, and is where you can show the most of your unique personality. That might be a field full of daisies, an elegant studio, the corner of your nursery, or a favorite spot in your own backyard. Whatever it is, that’s the place where your photographer will be able to help you capture the real you during your pregnancy.

Don’t forget that pregnancy is such a fleeting time. These photos will be some of the most treasured images you have.