Maternity Photos in Calgary: When to Book, What to Wear & What to Expect

Capturing your pregnancy and creating art

Pregnancy is one of those seasons of life that can feel incredibly long while you're living it—and surprisingly short once it's over. Maternity photos give you the opportunity to document your growing belly and the excitement of waiting to meet your new baby.

If you've been searching for a maternity photographer in Calgary, you may be wondering when you should book your session, what you're supposed to wear, whether your family can participate, or even whether maternity photos are really for you.

Here are a few things to know when planning your Calgary maternity photography session.

When Should You Take Maternity Photos?

For most moms, I recommend scheduling maternity photos somewhere around 28–34 weeks of pregnancy. At this point, you generally have a beautiful, noticeable baby bump while still being far enough from your due date that you're more likely to feel comfortable during your session.

Of course, every pregnancy is different! If you're expecting multiples, have a complicated pregnancy or simply feel more comfortable scheduling your photos earlier, we can plan your session accordingly.

I recommend contacting your maternity photographer before you reach this stage so you have more flexibility when choosing your date.

What If I Don't Feel Photogenic While Pregnant?

You are definitely not alone! Pregnancy changes your body quickly. Your regular clothes don't fit, you may feel tired or swollen, and you might not necessarily feel like standing in front of a camera.

But don’t worry, during your maternity photography session, I'll help guide you into flattering positions and use lighting and angles that highlight your beautiful baby bump.

My style is beautiful but down to earth. The goal of the session is to capture this time!

What Should I Wear for Maternity Photos?

One of the biggest questions I get about maternity photography is "What am I going to wear?"

Dresses that show the shape of your belly photograph beautifully, whether that's a long flowing maternity gown or something more fitted and simple.

While I'm still building my own maternity client wardrobe, I have connections to beautiful and very affordable maternity gown rentals in Calgary. This gives you access to more styles without having to purchase an expensive maternity dress that you may only wear once. There is a huge selection to choose from and you simply pick the dress up before the session and then drop it off after.

If renting or buying a dress is not for you, I'm also happy to help you choose something from your own wardrobe and discuss what will photograph best before your session.

You don't need an elaborate gown to create beautiful maternity photographs. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and that your clothing complements you and your growing belly.

Can My Partner and Children Be in My Maternity Photos?

Absolutely! I have a variety of packages to choose from, some including family.

Some of my favourite maternity photographs are actually the simple interactions between family members. After all, the whole family is waiting for this baby!

Studio or Outdoor Maternity Photography in Calgary?

Both options are beautiful, both have pros and cons.

A studio maternity session in Calgary allows us to control the lighting and temperature and create clean, timeless portraits without having to worry about what Calgary's weather decides to do that day. We can also do the shoot any time of day that is best for you without having to worry about the sun being too harsh.

Outdoor maternity photography provides natural scenery and magical light. Calgary offers tons of gorgeous outdoor locations from Fish Creek Park to Reader Rock Garden. For best results I do outdoor sessions early in the morning or in the evening at sunset.

We can discuss what is best for you!

Should I Book My Newborn Photos at the Same Time?

If you're already planning your maternity session, this is a great time to start thinking about newborn photography too. Babies aren't particularly interested in our schedules, so newborn sessions are generally booked according to your due date. Once your baby arrives, we can confirm the actual session date.

And if you already know you'd like both maternity and newborn photos, ask me about options for booking the two sessions together. I provide a discount on newborn sessions for those who book their maternity photos with me as well.

Looking for a Maternity Photographer in Calgary?

If you're expecting and looking for a Calgary maternity photographer, I'd love to help you plan a maternity session that feels beautiful, comfortable and completely your own. I offer a wide variety of beautiful studio backdrops or am glad to set something up outdoors from May to October.

I look forward to chatting with you about your session or feel free to explore my website!