Richmond Maternity Session Tips: Planning Guide

Timing is everything when it comes to maternity photography! For most moms-to-be, these Richmond maternity session tips suggest scheduling between 28-34 weeks. At this stage, your bump is beautifully defined, but you’re typically still comfortable enough to move around during your session.

Richmond Maternity Session Tips Timing

If you’re expecting multiples, we might schedule a bit earlier—around 26-28 weeks—when you’re still feeling your best. Every pregnancy progresses differently, so we’ll work together to find the perfect timing for your unique journey.

I recommend booking your Richmond maternity session at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your preferred date. This gives us plenty of time to plan all the details that will make your session special.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Richmond offers so many beautiful backdrops for maternity portraits! Maymont Park provides diverse settings with its Japanese gardens, Italian gardens, and open fields—all in one location. This variety allows us to capture different looks without having to travel between spots.

The James River parks system offers another stunning option with natural landscapes that showcase Richmond’s unique beauty. Belle Isle and Pipeline provide gorgeous water views that create serene, peaceful maternity portraits.

For a more urban feel, locations like Libby Hill Park offer a perfect blend of greenery and city views. The historic cobblestone streets of Shockoe Bottom also create charming backdrops with lots of character.

Richmond Maternity Session Tips Outfits

The right outfit can make a tremendous difference in your maternity portraits. Form-fitting styles that highlight your bump photograph beautifully, while flowing fabrics add movement and romance to your images.

My client closet includes several maternity gowns specifically chosen to flatter pregnant bodies and photograph beautifully. These dresses are available to all my maternity clients at no additional cost.

If you prefer to wear your own clothes, solid colors typically work best—especially jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby. These colors pop against Richmond’s natural landscapes and complement all skin tones.

Preparing for Your Richmond Maternity Session Tips

The week before your session is a good time to practice self-care. Schedule a manicure if you’d like (your hands will be featured in many photos as they cradle your bump). Light moisturizing can help your skin look its best in photos.

On the day of your session, eat a good meal beforehand and bring water and snacks. Staying hydrated and energized helps you feel your best throughout our time together.

What to Expect During Your Session

Your Richmond maternity session will typically last about an hour. We’ll work through a variety of poses and settings, capturing both posed portraits and candid moments.

Partners and older children are welcome and encouraged to participate! Some of the most meaningful maternity images include the whole family connecting with baby-to-be.

Remember that this is a celebration of this amazing chapter in your life. The most beautiful photos happen when you feel comfortable and confident, so don’t worry about getting every pose “perfect.” Your authentic joy and the miracle of pregnancy are what make these images special.

After your session, you can expect to see your gallery within about two weeks. This gives me time to carefully edit each image, creating a collection that tells the beautiful story of your pregnancy journey.

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If you’re looking for a studio in the Richmond area for your newborn, family, maternity or other type of session, check out The Studio on Broad!