As a photographer who specializes in capturing the motherhood journey, maternity photos are one of my top specialties. When you go book a photo session with me, you might have two different options: a custom session or a mini session. What exactly are these two types of maternity photo shoots and what’s the difference? Settle in because here’s everything you need to know to decide.

As a photographer who specializes in telling the story of your motherhood journey, an important part of every session is creating a wonderful experience for you. Your maternity photo shoot isn’t just about the photos (as exciting as those gorgeous portraits can be). It’s also an opportunity to take time out from reading baby books, setting up baby furniture, and planning hospital routes so simply be in the moment with your pregnancy. It’s a time to celebrate this stage in your life and a time to feel stunning and spectacular.

That’s why I believe in turning your maternity photo shoot day into a truly special day from start to finish. Here are a few ways you can make it a day to remember.

If you’ve worked with a few photographers in the past or if you have started shopping around for maternity photographers, you might have already noticed that every photographer does things a little differently. We each provide our own type of experience and artistic style for clients, and that’s part of the fun! When I designed my maternity photography experience, there was something I was particularly passionate about: including professional hair and makeup services in the package. To give you a peek into my process, here’s why I chose to include these services in my maternity portraits.

For so many moms-to-be, a maternity photo shoot is a treasured part of their pregnancy experience. You deserve to enjoy this exciting milestone however you choose, and for some, that includes having their spouse or partner in their maternity photos. Should you include them, and what’s the best way to do this?