Few things can pull this Pittsburgh girl away from our mild summers and into the thick of the southern heat. But a visit with my sister—and the promise of her in-home maternity photography session—was more than enough. I braved the Austin heat at the peak of summer, just in time to help her and my brother-in-law prepare for their first baby, capturing these precious, just-before-due-date memories together. We spent the weekend swapping stories, rearranging nursery shelves, and letting time slow down enough to soak in all the anticipation that comes with a little one’s debut.

If you’re new to this whole parenting thing and love the idea of maternity photos that feel comfortable, meaningful, and truly you, I can’t recommend an in-home session enough. These moments are intimate, private, and soaked in the sweet familiarity of your own space. There’s no pressure to perform or smile just so—just you, your bump, and the new chapter unfolding between your walls.

And if you’re feeling a little nervous? That’s normal, too. Whether you’re bursting with excitement, feeling overwhelmed, or both, here’s your heart-first, stress-free guide to a lifestyle maternity session you’ll love.

Why Choose an In-Home Maternity Photography Session?

Your home is the backdrop to your everyday. It’s where you brew coffee in pajamas, where you dream up names at midnight, where you’ll soon bring your baby home. There’s nothing quite like the comfort of familiar corners and favorite mugs on a day that’s supposed to celebrate you and this season.

In-home sessions flow naturally. Sometimes that looks like making pancakes together, laughing at spilled flour, or curling up on the couch with a cup of tea. Other times, it’s just sitting quietly, hand in hand, feeling those tiny kicks and letting the moment linger. The best part? There’s no “right” way to do it—only your way.

My approach is simple: connection over perfection, always. My job is to help you relax, tune into each other, and let the genuine emotions bubble up—joy, nerves, hope, and all. These are the memories that matter.

When To Schedule Your Maternity Photography Session

Timing can feel tricky, but it’s easier than you think. Generally, the sweet spot for maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks—your bump is beautifully visible, but you’re still comfortable enough to move around. If you’re expecting twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, you might want to schedule closer to 24–28 weeks.

Some parents love waiting until 7 or 8 months, when the anticipation is at its peak (and baby is still happy to stay put). The most important thing: listen to your body, trust your timing, and know that every pregnancy is different. Flexibility is your friend—if we need to reschedule, we’ll make it work. If it’s your first, your bump may not pop until the last couple of months.

Preparing Your Home (And Keeping It Simple)

Let’s keep the prep stress-free. No need for a deep clean—I promise, I’ve seen it all, and your home doesn’t need to look magazine-worthy.

A few easy tips:

• Open blinds or curtains to let in as much natural light as possible, especially in rooms you love.
• Grab a laundry basket, toss in toys, clothes, or stray odds and ends, and tuck it out of sight. You can still access the essentials, but the clutter stays out of frame.
• Move anything visually distracting—appliances on the counters, tangled cords, or piles of mail—so the focus stays on you.

Remember: lived-in is beautiful. It’s not about perfection, just a little extra breathing room.

Clothing Tips for Parents

Think: variety and comfort. Bring a mix of maternity favorites and a few pre-pregnancy pieces. Unbuttoned shirts with jeans, fitted dresses that hug your bump, soft sweaters, or flowy layers all work. For this session, my sister, Jen, wore laid-back jeans and a sports bra for a cozy, casual feel, then slipped into a long, fitted, off-the-shoulder cream dress for a touch of softness. Both felt like her—and both let her and JT’s connection shine.

Prioritize pieces that highlight your belly—ruching, snug fits, or even a loose button-down gently draped open. If you’re unsure about what to wear, lay out your options, snap a few photos, and send them my way. I love helping you feel confident and comfortable before the session even starts.

Adding Personal Touches to Your In-Home Maternity Photography Session

Include sentimental elements, such as baby shoes, ultrasound prints, and heirloom blankets, to make the images feel more meaningful.

To emphasize your connection and anticipation, add some lifestyle touches: holding hands, reading, or small moments of joy—this candid, connection-first approach captures these beautifully.

What to Expect When You Book Your Session with Me

This is your story—I want you to feel seen and heard every step of the way. If questions pop up (and they will!), ask away. Wondering about what rooms work best, what to do with your hands, or how to include pets or siblings, I’ve got you covered. We’ll talk through it all before the session so you feel prepared and supported. 

I’ll guide you gently during the shoot, offering prompts instead of poses to keep things natural and relaxed. Whether you want to focus on quiet, emotional moments or sprinkle in a little fun and laughter, we’ll tailor the experience to reflect who you are. You’ll appreciate the authenticity years from now. Instead of reflecting a filtered version of your life, we’ll honor the beautifully real moments unfolding right now. And THOSE are frame-worthy.