Maternity Boudoir – Your body is changing, document it in a beautiful way!

If you’ve landed on this page, chances are you are expecting a baby (or know someone who is). There are so many new and exciting things happening for you right now and I know they can feel overwhelming, even amidst the joy of this new adventure.

That’s why I think it’s important to do something for yourself to document this time in your life.

And if traditional maternity photos (think long dresses in fields of wildflowers) don’t quite feel like your thing, you should definitely think about a maternity boudoir session instead.

Why maternity boudoir is unique

Boudoir photography is a beautiful celebration of a human body, highlighting who you are underneath your outward exterior. Maternity photos are a celebration of the new life you’re creating (and the badass job you’re doing of surviving growing a human). These two experiences pair beautifully together and should be equally celebrated in a beautiful and empowering way.

Where will we take my photos?

Due to the types of outfits typically worn, most boudoir takes place in a studio environment to ensure comfort, privacy, and amenities (like easy access to a bathroom). My studio in Westminster has great light and lots of variety in props and sets.

What if I don’t feel great about my body?

Pregnant or not, this is a common worry for many people considering a boudoir session. And I get it, especially while you’re growing a human. You probably see your body changing almost every day, from swollen ankles, to stretch marks, to larger breasts. And you might worry about showing all of those new changes to anyone, let alone stepping in front of a camera to document it.

But all of these changes are just a normal way of dealing with a very big change and I would argue that your body deserves to be celebrated in spite of the ways you might feel different.

I will also help you move and pose in a way that highlights and flatters your features. For some advanced tips, check out my blog post 7 Tips to Help you Feel Comfortable Posing for your Boudoir Shoot.

What should I wear for my session?

There are no boundaries to what you could wear for your session. I would suggest something that feels sensual, soft, and comfortable for your current body, but it can range the gamut.

Some suggestions are:

Lace robes or sheer gowns
Bralettes and high-waisted underwear
Oversized white button-down shirt
Nude, but with silk sheets or draped fabric

When during my pregnancy should I book my session?

Most maternity boudoir sessions occur between 28 and 34 weeks. That’s typically the time when your belly will feel round and pregnant, but not so bloated and uncomfortable that the last thing you want to do is take photos.

Of course, if you’re having twins, this timeline would likely bump up to earlier. 

Should I get my hair and make up done?

Of course! I include hair and make up as part of your session, so there is no excuse not to take advantage of it to help you feel your absolute best. 

How long will my maternity boudoir session last?

Most boudoir sessions last about 2 hours, but we can schedule for slightly longer if you feel like you’re going to need frequent breaks. Sometimes being on your feet too long can be uncomfortable, and you may need additional snacks, water, and bathroom breaks to keep yourself feeling hydrated and good. We can absolutely work to your body’s comfort. 

I also have a fan available in the studio in case you get too hot (common with pregnancy!).

Can I include my partner?

Sure! I recently wrote a post about how awesome I think couple’s boudoir sessions are, and you can absolutely transfer that energy to a maternity boudoir session. It can be a great time to connect with your partner over this new chapter of your life and celebrate the sensual and beautiful connection you have together.

That being said, you can also do a maternity boudoir session entirely for yourself as a way to honor your body and where you are at this stage of life.

The only thing I would advise against, is bringing siblings to a session. The nature of maternity boudoir isn’t quite child friendly, and I would advocate for you to have a break from parenting other children during your session so you can focus completely on yourself.