Richmond Maternity Photography Sessions

Why You’ll Never Regret Booking a Richmond Maternity Photography Session

Hey friends, how’s it going? Today we’re sharing a little bit about Richmond maternity photography sessions. Why we love them, why we think you should do one, and why we’re so glad we did one ourselves.


Why Maternity Photos Matter

Lately, our life has been filled with family milestones. Our boys are officially out of the toddler stage (cue Laura’s tears). Niles recently announced, “I’m wearing six!” and just like that, the toddler section at Target is behind us.

Moments like these remind us how quickly time passes. Every night, we find ourselves scrolling through photos from when our kids were babies or from when I was pregnant. Those images feel priceless now.

Here’s the truth: I wasn’t the mom documenting my bump every week in the mirror. Honestly, I wasn’t super excited about booking a maternity session either. But we decided to do one anyway – and I can’t tell you how grateful I am that we did.

Not just for me, but for our son. Niles loves looking at those pictures. It blows his mind that he was ever in my belly. And for us, those photos are a reminder of such a fleeting, miraculous time.


When Should You Book a Maternity Session?

If you take nothing else from this, hear this: don’t wait until you’re 36 weeks pregnant like I did.

We recommend scheduling maternity photos around 28–32 weeks. That’s the sweet spot when:

  • You’re showing, but still comfortable.
  • Walking up the stairs doesn’t leave you winded.
  • You feel beautiful without feeling exhausted.

📌 Pro tip: Book your maternity session as soon as you know you want one. Putting it on the calendar early means you won’t keep pushing it off until it’s too late.


Add-On Announcement Sessions

One of our favorite things is when couples book early and add a quick announcement session. These mini sessions are perfect for:

  • Sharing your ultrasound photo.
  • Gender reveal moments.
  • A fun, creative way to announce your pregnancy to friends and family.

They’re short, sweet, and filled with joy.. and they make the maternity session later on even more special.


Including Siblings in Maternity Photos

If this isn’t your first baby, maternity sessions become even sweeter.

There’s nothing like photographing a toddler hugging mom’s belly or pointing to “baby brother.” Plus, it makes newborn photos easier.. your older child already knows us and is excited to show off their baby sibling when we return for your Richmond newborn session.

Michael has a special way with toddlers (maybe it’s because he’s just a big kid himself), so sessions are fun and stress-free. While I take newborn photos, he hangs out with big brother or sister, letting them show off their toys, so they’re relaxed and excited for family photos.


What to Wear for Your Maternity Session

We send all of our couples a full style guide, but here are a few quick tips:

  • For moms-to-be: We love long, flowy dresses – soft florals, pale prints, or solid neutrals. Choose something you can also wear to your baby shower or postpartum when you want something flattering and comfortable. And please, treat yourself – get your hair and makeup done, maybe even your nails. Think of it as a little pampering before baby arrives.

  • For partners: Keep it simple.. khakis or nice jeans with a button-down shirt (no bold patterns). Add a blazer if you want to dress it up. Clean, classic, and timeless always photographs best.

Best Richmond Locations for Maternity Photography

Richmond has so many beautiful, natural backdrops that work perfectly for maternity photos. Some of our favorites:

  • VMFA – clean, modern architecture with open green space.
  • The Virginia Museum of History & Culture – neutral backgrounds with a classic feel.
  • Capitol Square Park – a great mix of historic and green spaces.
  • Your own home – cozy, personal, and unique to you. (Bonus points if you order pizza and make it a maternity-at-home vibe. Truly, 10/10 recommend.)

Want to make it extra personal? Bring along props like your ultrasound, baby shoes, or even a picnic setup.


The Big Picture – Richmond Maternity Photography Session

Here’s what we want you to remember:
This season goes by fast. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, maternity photography is about celebrating the miracle of this moment and preserving it forever.

When we walk into your nursery for newborn photos and see your maternity portraits already framed on the wall—it always feels like such a full-circle moment.


Ready to Book Your Richmond Maternity or Newborn Session?

If you’re expecting, now is the best time to reserve your spot on our calendar. Whether you want maternity photos, newborn photography, or both, we’d love to capture your family’s story.

Contact us here to book your Richmond maternity and newborn photography session.

If you’d like to see more from a maternity and newborn session, click here!

we're Michael & Laura

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a husband and wife photography team based in Richmond, Virginia (though we LOVE to travel!). We hope you enjoy browsing some of our most recent work, reading our tips and tricks for brides, and taking a little peek into our life.  

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