Embracing the Journey: How to Prepare for Your Outdoor Maternity Session with Me
- Trudi Bartley

- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
There’s something so beautiful about photographing maternity sessions. When I think back to what were some of my first ever photo shoots, it was maternity that really stole my heart along with newborns. Maybe a large part of that comes from not having my own maternity session with my first born or even newborn photos after we welcomed her into the world. That was almost 15 years ago! We literally have a dozen selfies and phone photos which the quality of is terrible haha.
It's truly something I dream of now, that I wish I had to look back on. 18 year old me, adjusting into our new life as parents, young parents at that. Its true, we literally blink and our babies are teenagers and we crave those memories.
Your maternity session isn’t just about documenting your bump; it’s about celebrating the love, anticipation, and beauty of this chapter in your life.
So here is a little guide to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and excited for your maternity session with me.
What to Expect
When you arrive at your session location, we’ll take a few moments to settle in. Breathe, stretch, and just soak in the space. My sessions are never rushed. I’ll gently guide you into poses and natural movements that feel comfortable and authentic.
Outdoor sessions are filled with soft movement and connection. Walking through long grass, pausing in the light, holding your belly as the sun dips behind the trees. I’ll help you find those moments that feel like you - whether that’s quiet and serene or joyful and full of laughter.
If your partner or little ones are joining, we’ll include those heartfelt interactions too. Think cuddles, hand-holding and really just some playful moments where you all can relax and have a joke. With children involved, your session also becomes about them - being your first or second baby, and the anticipation they may have for their new sibling. (Or maybe they wont really care, haha but we will capture them as they are, because they are important too).
How to Prepare
1. Timing is everything
Outdoor maternity sessions are best held between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy, when your bump is beautifully round but you’re still comfortable moving around.We’ll schedule your session around the golden hour - that soft, glowy light just after sunrise or before sunset - for the most flattering, dreamy results.
2. Choosing your outfits
I have a beautiful client wardrobe filled with flowing dresses, soft fabrics, and earthy tones that photograph perfectly outdoors. These pieces catch the light and movement in all the right ways.You’re welcome to bring something personal too - something that feels like you.
3. Preparing for the outdoors
It’s always a good idea to bring:
Water and a small snack (especially if children are joining)
A change of shoes (especially if we’re walking through grass or sand)
In warmer months: insect repellent and sunscreen
In cooler weather: a cozy blanket or jacket to warm up between shots
4. Relax and enjoy the moment You don’t need to know how to pose. I’ll guide you through everything so it feels effortless. The best photos come when you simply let go and enjoy the moment. Trust me to find the light, the angles, and the emotion - your only job is to be present.
After Your Session
Once your session wraps up, I’ll begin carefully editing your gallery - enhancing tones, light, and texture so each image truly reflects the warmth of the moment.You’ll receive a private online viewing gallery to choose your favourite images, with the option to create fine art prints, albums, or keepsake boxes that bring your story to life.
A Final Note
Your outdoor maternity session is a time to slow down, breathe deeply, and honour this incredible season of life. It’s not about perfection - it’s about connection. The way the sunlight touches your skin, the way you hold your belly, the laughter shared with the people you love.
I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you - out in the open air, where everything feels calm and real.
Ready to Capture Your Story?
If you’re dreaming of a warm, natural outdoor maternity session filled with love and light, I’d love to make that vision come to life. Book your maternity session today or get in touch to chat about your ideal location and style.
Trudi. xx
























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