Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful, transformative seasons of your life. Your body is doing something absolutely incredible — growing a tiny human — and that deserves to be documented with intention and artistry. Choosing the right maternity photographer ensures that this fleeting chapter is preserved in a way that feels authentic to you and your growing family.

At Lauren Lam Photography, I believe your maternity session should feel relaxed, natural, and joy-filled. If you’re currently searching for a maternity photographer, here are my top tips to help you find the perfect fit!

1. Look for Consistency in Their Work

When browsing a photographer’s website or Instagram, ask yourself:

• Do the images feel cohesive?
• Is the editing style consistent?
• Does their portfolio feel intentional?

Consistency is one of the biggest indicators of professionalism and experience. When a maternity photographer maintains a cohesive look across their galleries, you can trust that your final images will reflect what you see online.

If every session looks drastically different in color or style, it may be harder to predict what your final gallery will look like. A consistent portfolio shows that the photographer has refined their artistic vision and can reliably deliver that same quality to you.

Investment Goes Hand in Hand with Consistency

You’ve heard the saying: you get what you pay for.

If you’re simply searching for the cheapest maternity photographer in town, will that guarantee you’ll love your finished images? Probably not.

Photography is both an art and a skill developed over years of experience. A seasoned maternity photographer understands lighting, posing, editing, client experience, and how to make you feel confident in front of the camera.

You’re not expecting every day. This season is fleeting. The images from this chapter of life are absolutely priceless — and they’re 100% worth the investment! Choosing someone with elevated work and experience ensures you’ll receive timeless images you’ll treasure forever.

2. Pay Attention to Lighting

Lighting can truly make or break a photograph. A skilled maternity photographer knows how to work with natural light in a way that flatters and enhances your glow.

As you browse their work, look for:

• Beautiful, glowy sunlight
• Soft, even lighting on faces
• Clean, natural skin tones
• Consistency even on cloudy days

Here’s the key: if you can’t tell whether it was sunny or overcast when the photo was taken, that’s a great sign! That means the photographer understands light deeply and can create stunning images in a variety of conditions.

Glowy, dreamy light adds warmth and emotion to maternity portraits. It creates that timeless, romantic feel so many expecting mothers love. When a maternity photographer masters lighting, your images will look radiant and professional — no matter the weather.

3. Choose a Style That Feels Natural

Every maternity photographer has a unique style. Some lean toward dramatic and editorial, while others focus on candid, lifestyle-inspired imagery.

Ask yourself:

• Do the images feel relaxed?
• Do the families look comfortable?
• Do the smiles look genuine?
• Can you imagine yourself in these photos?

Your maternity session should never feel stiff or overly posed. The most meaningful images often come from natural movement, real laughter, and authentic connection.

When you feel emotionally drawn to a photographer’s work, that’s a strong sign you’ve found someone whose vision aligns with yours. Choose a maternity photographer whose style feels like you — because your photos should reflect your personality and your family’s love.

4. What Are Others Saying?

Before booking any service, most of us check reviews (I know I do!) — and choosing a maternity photographer should be no different.

Head to Google and read what past clients are saying. Look for feedback about:

• Communication
• Comfort during the session
• Turnaround time
• Overall experience
• Image quality

Reviews often reveal the heart behind the business. You’ll learn how the photographer interacts with toddlers, how organized they are, and whether clients felt truly cared for.

If multiple people mention feeling relaxed, confident, and beautiful during their session, that’s a wonderful sign you’re in good hands.

5. Do You Feel a Connection?

This might be the most important factor of all.

You’re inviting someone into a deeply personal and vulnerable season of your life. Your maternity photographer should feel like someone you trust — someone who makes you feel confident, celebrated, and seen.

After browsing their website, ask yourself:

• Do I connect with their words?
• Does their personality shine through?
• Do I feel understood?
• Can I imagine working with them?

Many maternity photographers offer phone calls or consultations before booking. Take advantage of that opportunity! A short conversation can help you determine whether you feel comfortable and connected.

When you feel at ease with your photographer, it shows in your images. Confidence translates beautifully on camera.

6. What About Outfits?

One of the biggest stressors for expecting moms is deciding what to wear. The right maternity photographer will guide you every step of the way.

Consider asking:

• Do they offer outfit styling assistance?
• Do they provide inspiration guides?
• Do they have a client closet?

A client closet is a curated collection of dresses available for clients to use at no additional cost. This is such an incredible perk! These gowns are typically chosen specifically for photography — designed to flatter baby bumps, flow beautifully in motion, and photograph like a dream.

Having access to a client closet:

• Reduces stress
• Saves money
• Ensures your outfit photographs beautifully
• Creates a cohesive look with the photographer’s style

This added support can make your entire maternity session feel seamless and enjoyable. You deserve to feel confident and radiant without the added pressure of shopping for the “perfect” dress.

When Should You Book Your Maternity Session?

Timing truly matters!

I always recommend scheduling your maternity session between 28–34 weeks. This is the sweet spot for most expecting mothers.

During this window:

• Your baby bump is beautifully round and visible
• You’re likely still feeling comfortable enough to move with ease
• You haven’t reached the heavier, more uncomfortable final weeks

Of course, every pregnancy is different. But generally, this timeframe offers the perfect balance of glow and comfort.

If you’ve found a maternity photographer you love, don’t wait too long to reach out. Many photographers book months in advance, especially during busy seasons. Securing your date early ensures you won’t miss out.

Why You Should Use the Same Photographer for Maternity & Newborn

If you’re planning both a maternity and newborn session, I highly recommend booking them with the same maternity photographer.

Here’s why:

• Your images will feel cohesive in editing and style.
• You’ll already feel comfortable in front of the camera.
• Your photographer will understand your preferences.
• Toddlers will recognize the person behind the camera.

This last point is especially important for families with young children. When your toddler already knows the photographer, your newborn session feels more relaxed and natural. Familiarity builds trust — and that leads to smoother sessions and sweeter interactions.

Bonus: Many maternity photographers offer bundled pricing or discounts when you book maternity and newborn sessions together. It’s always worth asking!

Trust Your Instincts

After you’ve done your research, read reviews, and browsed galleries, trust your gut.

If you feel excited, confident, and seen, you’re probably making the right choice.

The right maternity photographer will make you feel radiant, supported, and celebrated. This season is fleeting — but your photographs will allow you to relive it for years to come.

Pregnancy is a chapter you will never get back — but you can preserve it beautifully. When you choose a maternity photographer who aligns with your vision, style, and personality, you’re investing in memories that will last a lifetime.

And if you feel good about the maternity photographer you choose, odds are you’re making exactly the right decision. ✨

Lauren is wife to Blake and mom of three, and has a background in Elementary Education, so she has lots of experience with kids! She is currently a Chattanooga Family Photographer, as well as a Chattanooga Newborn Photographer and Chattanooga Maternity Photographer. See more of her work here!