5 Tips for a Unique and Artsy Maternity Photoshoot Experience

Not all maternity sessions have to look the same. If you're dreaming of something different—something that feels like fine art and tells a story—you're not alone. Many modern mamas are moving away from traditional studio portraits and leaning into creative, expressive maternity photography. Think transparent fabrics, pearls, sunsets, and the ocean… like something out of a painting.

Here are five tips to help you plan a maternity photo session that feels more like an artistic experience than a typical shoot.

1. Choose a Concept or Inspiration

Start with a vision. Whether you're inspired by classical art, a specific color palette, or a personal story, having a creative anchor will help shape the entire session.

For example, one recent session I photographed was inspired by Botticelli's The Birth of Venus. The mama wore a flowing, transparent skirt and strands of pearls, stepping into the ocean as the sun dipped low. It was dreamy, ethereal, and meaningful. Choosing a theme gives you direction and adds emotional depth to your photos.

Creative prompts to consider:

• Mythology or fairytales

• A favorite poem or song

• Nature elements (wind, water, light)

• Fashion eras (like 70s goddess or 90s minimalism)

2. Style Boldly (But Thoughtfully)

Wardrobe is everything in a creative shoot. Skip the usual gowns and go for textures, transparency, and movement. Think soft tulle, silk, sheer skirts, veils, or even body chains and layered jewelry. Styling should feel editorial but personal—like wearable art.

Don’t be afraid of nontraditional looks. Pearls on bare skin, sculptural headpieces, or flowing fabrics in the water can create timeless, painterly results.

Bonus Tip: Add one or two unexpected elements—like dried florals, feathers, or a vintage prop—to level up the aesthetic.

3. Use Natural Elements to Your Advantage

If you want your session to feel organic and inspired by nature, shoot outdoors. The beach at sunset, a windswept desert, or even a misty forest can create atmosphere and softness that feels magical.

Let water, wind, or sand be part of the story. I always tell my clients not to be afraid to move—walk into the ocean, lie in the grass, or let the wind lift your veil. These candid moments create movement and emotion in the final images.

4. Embrace Movement and Emotion

Posing is still important—but instead of stiff setups, go for gestures and flow. Turn, sway, laugh, close your eyes, and feel into the moment. I guide my clients through editorial-style posing that feels relaxed and expressive, which helps capture the emotion and transformation of pregnancy in a genuine way.

Sometimes the most powerful images come from stillness, too—like a simple hand over the belly, eyes closed, hair blowing in the wind.

Trust your photographer’s direction and let go. The magic is in the in-between moments.

5. Work with a Photographer Who Gets Your Vision

If you’re dreaming of a maternity session that feels like art, find a photographer whose style resonates with that vision. Look for someone who blends editorial posing with creative direction, understands light and texture, and can help bring your story to life visually.

At La Petite Photo, I work closely with mamas to create one-of-a-kind sessions that are deeply personal and artistically styled. Whether we’re shooting at the beach, in a field, or even in-home, every detail is chosen with intention.

Final Thought: Make It Your Own

There’s no one way to do maternity photos—and that’s the beauty of it. You’re celebrating your body, your baby, and this powerful transformation. Let the session reflect you—your essence, your style, your story.

If you’re ready to create something different and soulful, I’d love to dream it up with you. Reach out and let’s plan your artistic maternity shoot!