If you’re planning an indoor maternity photoshoot at home in Austin, TX I have something you’re going to love! 

I’m talking about how to make the most of your current space to produce the most gorgeous images, but this isn’t an ordinary list.

This is one crafted specifically for Austin Moms who crave simple, natural aesthetics, away from all the props and fancy gowns.

I remember when I was planning my own maternity photoshoot with my first daughter and could not figure out what to wear. I was scrolling endlessly through Pinterest hoping to find the perfect outfit. The long, tight maternity gowns popular at the time just did not feel like me. I loved the more classic, simple clothing. So I just did something different! I ditched the traditional gown for a pair of jeans and a cute bump-friendly top, and purchased a cute little pink wrap off Etsy (I was expecting a girl). And voila!

In other words, if you too love simplicity, then you’re in the right place!

Ready to get started? Let’s make sure your maternity photoshoot is planned in a way that makes you feel comfortable, empowered, and as beautiful as the mama that you are.

First, pick an outfit that reflects YOU

If you’re like me and love everything that feels as natural as possible, then stay true to that. Because here’s the thing – if you are uncomfortable in what you are wearing for your session, it will show, and it will be so much harder to produce the images that you dream of.

With that said, am I saying to just go with yoga pants and a comfy sweatshirt? Hmm…Not exactly. Comfort does not have to mean sacrificing elegance. It simply means wearing something that makes you feel good in your own skin. Whether you choose a dress for the occasion or a pair of jeans, there are tons of options to feel dressed up and beautiful in your photos.

If you are looking for inspiration, my all-time favorite shop for maternity clothes is Pink Blush Maternity. They have so many options with a variety of styles, it’d be hard not to find something that you love :).

Choose a location in your house that will brighten up your indoor maternity photos

As a natural light portrait photographer, my best tip is to work with your photographer during your consultation to pick a few spots in your home that work best for your vision. Ideally, you will want to consider the time of day for your session, and the amount of natural light coming inside your house. For example, if you love the idea of maternity photos in the nursery, then pick a time when the sun hits that room.

Concerned your nursery just does not let enough light in at any time of the day? Consider your master bedroom, your living room, or even your kitchen! These areas of your home, although not top of mind, can actually create some very candid, natural shots that you’ll love.

Next, prepare your home for your photoshoot

Do you need to hire a professional team to come deep clean your house before your session? Definitely not! However, I always recommend looking around the space(s) in your home where you plan to have your maternity photos taken. Try to spot the little items that may cause distractions in the background of your pictures (think about the plastic water bottle on the night stand or the humidifier in the corner).

As a photographer, I will sometimes offer to remove a few objects temporarily to create the best background – such as a chair or such – so don’t worry if you forget something, I’ve got it!

Lastly, prepare the children

If you are not expecting your first baby and little siblings will be part of the photoshoot, it is always a good idea to prepare them ahead of time for what to expect. They will meet a stranger for the first time inside their home, holding a big camera, and that can be a little scary.

Also, their home is the place where all their toys are and where they typically get to have fun. So it is understandable that they may prefer to go play on the trampoline rather than taking photos. I recommend letting them know that this will be a time to spend with the family, and make a game out of it. As a family and maternity photographer, I LOVE the more candid shots, the ones that perfectly capture the tickle fights and belly laughs. So let them just have fun!

A closer look into Yujia’s indoor maternity photoshoot in Austin, TX

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure to meet Yujia, Nathan, and their little 20-month-old Kai in their beautiful home. Yujia wanted her session to feel as natural and simple as possible, and there was no place better than their home to bring her vision to life.

Check out some highlights from their beautiful maternity gallery.

Ready to book your indoor maternity photoshoot at home? Contact me HERE 🙂