Choosing where to have your maternity photoshoot is as important as choosing what to wear. Do you want the intimate comfort of your bedroom? The polished backdrops of a studio? Or the open-air beauty of an outdoor location?
Each setting creates a different story. The good news: many photographers offer combination sessions giving you both intimate and scenic images. This guide walks you through every option, costs, and helps you choose what feels right for your vision.
In This Guide
Three Settings: Side-by-Side Comparison
These three options aren't just different locations—they're different experiences. Here's what each offers:
| Setting | Lighting | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home | Natural window light | ₹5-10K | Intimate, relaxed, budget-friendly |
| Studio | Professional strobes | ₹8-20K | Polished, multiple backdrops, controlled |
| Outdoor | Natural sunlight | ₹8-25K | Scenic, natural beauty, adventurous |
Home Maternity Shoots
Home shoots are intimate, convenient, and surprisingly versatile. You're already comfortable, your clothes fit perfectly, and you can take breaks whenever you need to.
Why Home Shoots Work
You'll look most relaxed at home because you're not thinking about strangers or public perception—you're just being yourself. Natural window light from a bedroom or living room window creates flattering, organic glow that studios sometimes struggle to replicate.
The best rooms: master bedroom with north/east-facing windows, living room with large windows, balconies for golden light, or even open kitchens for lifestyle-style photos.
Props and Styling
You don't need much. A few meaningful props work better than generic ones: baby's outfit on a pillow, ultrasound photos, due date on chalkboard, partner's hands on your belly, or soft blankets.
Keep clothing fitted to show your bump beautifully. Choose jewel tones (deep greens, burgundies), warm neutrals (tan, taupe), or blush. Avoid bright whites which blow out in window light. Minimal jewelry and natural makeup keep focus on your pregnancy journey.
Studio Maternity Shoots
Studio gives you controlled environments where every element is adjustable—lighting, background, shadows. Perfect if you want polished, consistent images across multiple looks.
Studio Experience
You'll change in a private room, work against professional backdrops (seamless paper, fabric, or textured walls), and benefit from controlled lighting. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes with multiple outfit options. The photographer directs poses throughout.
Finding Studios
Look for maternity photography specialists—they know how to pose pregnant bodies comfortably and light your bump beautifully. Check portfolios carefully. Ask about backdrop variety, lighting style, and their experience with maternity-specific posing.
Studio Costs
Entry-level packages (30 min, 50 images, one outfit): ₹8,000-12,000. Mid-range (60 min, 100 images, two outfits): ₹12,000-18,000. Premium (90 min, 150+ images, unlimited outfits, album): ₹18,000-25,000+.
Outdoor Location Shoots
Outdoor shoots add scale and scenery. You're not just a portrait—you're a mom-to-be against the canvas of the world. Gardens, beaches, fields, monuments—these become part of your story.
Golden Hour Magic
The golden hour (one hour after sunrise or before sunset) is when outdoor maternity photography looks best. The sun is low and warm, creating flattering light with dramatic shadows. Your bump gets beautiful dimension.
Plan for early morning (6-7 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) sessions. Overcast days are your second-best option—clouds act as a giant softbox creating flattering, even light.
Best Locations
Gardens and Parks: Botanical gardens, flowering trees, terraces. Time shoots during blooming seasons (February-March ideal). Beaches: Stunning with water backdrop, but watch for heat and sand logistics. Best early morning or late afternoon. Fields: Open wheat or mustard fields create freedom and space. Architecture: Forts and heritage buildings add sophistication (with proper permits). Water Features: Lakes and rivers add drama and reflection.
Season Matters in India
October-February: Ideal. Pleasant temps, clear skies, abundant golden hour light. February-April: Flowers bloom. Monsoon/Summer: Skip if possible—flat gray light, humidity, heat exhaustion risk.
Practical Outdoor Tips
Wear comfortable shoes you can walk in (change to heels for photos if needed). Bring plenty of water—you need hydration more when pregnant and in sun. Apply maternity-safe sunscreen. Scout locations beforehand to locate bathrooms (critical in third trimester). Keep props organized in a secure folder. Have a backup outfit ready in case of weather changes.
How to Choose: Simple Framework
Aesthetic: Do you love intimate/lifestyle images? Choose home. Polished/styled? Choose studio. Scenic/adventurous? Choose outdoor.
Budget: Home is most budget-friendly (₹5-10K). Studio and outdoor similar (₹8-25K).
Comfort: Uncomfortable being photographed? Home is easiest. Love photography and polish? Studio. Adventurous outdoors person? Outdoor.
Season: Shooting in monsoon or summer? Home or studio better. October-February? Outdoor becomes beautiful and viable.
Privacy: Value complete privacy? Home. Don't mind public spaces? Outdoor works fine.
What to Wear for Each Setting
Home Shoot Outfits
Fitted tank tops, t-shirts, or maternity gowns show your bump beautifully. Choose jewel tones (deep greens, burgundies, teals), warm neutrals (tan, taupe, camel), or skin tones (blush, cream). Avoid bright whites which blow out in window light. Cotton or linen fabrics feel comfortable and photograph well. Many moms do a few shots with just underwear and belly bare—intimate and powerful.
Studio Shoot Outfits
Studios often allow multiple outfit changes: a classic maternity gown (iconic look), a couple/partner outfit if they're included, and optional lifestyle look (casual jeans/sweater). For studio lighting, avoid bright white. Studio lighting tends warm, so jewel tones and warm colors photograph beautifully.
Outdoor Shoot Outfits
Earth tones photograph beautifully outdoors—warm creams, blush, sage green, chocolate brown, rust. Flowy fabrics work well with wind and movement. A flowing maternity gown catches beautifully in breeze. Choose something practical you can walk in. Make sure flowing fabrics still show your bump shape—flowy isn't shapeless.
Budget Comparison
| Setting | Length | Cost Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home | 45-60 min | ₹5,000-10,000 | Edited digital images |
| Studio (Entry) | 30-45 min | ₹8,000-12,000 | Digital, multiple backdrops |
| Studio (Premium) | 60-90 min | ₹15,000-25,000 | Digital + prints, album, multiple outfits |
| Outdoor (Local) | 45-60 min | ₹8,000-15,000 | Digital images, golden hour timing |
| Combination (Both) | 90-120 min | ₹20,000-35,000 | Both locations, maximum variety |
What affects price: Photographer experience, city (metros more expensive), session length, and print/album packages.
Budget tips: Book weekdays for discounts. Skip prints if budget-tight and get digital files. Watch for maternity + newborn package deals. Negotiate to get just what you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between indoor and outdoor maternity photoshoots?
Indoor shoots offer controlled lighting and weather protection for consistency. Outdoor shoots provide natural light, scenic backdrops, and adventure. Neither is objectively better—it depends on your aesthetic and comfort level.
Can I do a maternity photoshoot at home without professional equipment?
Absolutely. Many photographers specialize in home sessions using just natural window light and a simple reflector. You'll get beautiful results without expensive studio setup.
What should I wear for indoor versus outdoor maternity photoshoots?
For indoor, fitted gowns in jewel tones or warm neutrals work best. For outdoor, earth tones and warm colors photograph beautifully with flowing fabrics. Key principle: fit your bump so it's clearly visible and beautifully shaped. Avoid shapeless clothing.
Should I combine indoor and outdoor in one session?
If budget allows and you can't choose between styles, combination sessions are excellent—you get variety and different moods. But if choosing one, pick the one that genuinely excites you. You'll be more relaxed with one location you love.