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Studio or Location Maternity Session - or a Combination of Both?
- Janette Osvay
- 13 minutes ago
- 5 min read
All the pros and cons, to help you decide which option suits your vibe best.
Pregnancy is one of life's most beautiful chapters, and capturing these moments through photography can be an incredibly empowering, emotional, and memorable experience. But when it comes to planning your maternity photoshoot, one of the first decisions you'll face is: Should I go for a studio session, an outdoor location shoot, or maybe even both?
Choosing the right setting isn't just about logistics. It's about your personality, your comfort, your style, and the mood you want to create. In this guide, we're diving deep into the pros and cons of each option to help you make a confident, informed decision that suits your vibe best.
1. Why the Setting Matters More Than You Think
The backdrop of your maternity photos influences more than just aesthetics. It can affect how relaxed you feel, how you move, what you wear, and even how intimate or dramatic the final images turn out.
Think of your session as storytelling. Do you envision yourself glowing in soft natural light among tall grasses, or do you see a bold, elegant portrait in a styled studio setup? The setting will help bring that story to life.
2. Studio Maternity Sessions: The Ultimate in Comfort & Control
A studio maternity session offers a highly controlled environment, and for many expecting mothers, this is a huge plus.
Pros:
Climate-Controlled Comfort: Rain, heat, or wind? No worries. Studios offer a consistent, comfortable setting year-round.
Flattering Lighting: Professional studio lighting can be adjusted perfectly to suit your features and flatter your baby bump.
Privacy: If you're shy or self-conscious, the studio offers an intimate, private space to pose and relax.
Wardrobe & Styling Access: Studios often have wardrobe collections, changing rooms, makeup stations, and stylists on hand.
Creative Setups: From minimalist to glam, studios can be styled in countless ways.
Cons:
Limited Variety: Some might find the studio setting less adventurous or lacking a natural vibe.
Can Feel Staged: If you're going for candid, spontaneous moments, studio shoots can feel more posed.
3. Outdoor Location Sessions: Nature's Beauty as Your Backdrop
On the flip side, an outdoor maternity session offers stunning, organic scenery and a natural feel that's hard to replicate indoors.
Pros:
Breathtaking Backdrops: Beaches, forests, gardens, urban alleys—nature offers a raw beauty that enhances every shot.
Golden Hour Magic: That warm, dreamy light right before sunset? It's every photographer's best friend.
Natural Movement: Outdoor shoots invite more walking, laughing, interacting with the environment—great for lifestyle shots.
Personal Meaning: Choosing a location with emotional significance can make the session even more memorable.
Cons:
Unpredictable Weather: Rain or strong winds can reschedule your shoot or affect hair and outfits.
Less Privacy: Public spaces mean onlookers, which some might find distracting or uncomfortable.
Logistical Challenges: Changing outfits, using the bathroom, or retouching makeup can be tricky on-location.
4. Combination Sessions: The Best of Both Worlds?
Can’t decide? Why not have both! A hybrid maternity session blends the artistry of studio photography with the spontaneity of outdoor shoots.
Benefits:
More Variety: You'll walk away with a diverse gallery—some polished, some playful.
Flexibility: If the weather changes, you still have the studio as a fallback.
Creative Juxtaposition: Mix glamour with nature, structure with freedom, and elegance with authenticity.
Things to Consider:
Longer Session Time: Dual locations require more time and planning.
Wardrobe Planning: Consider outfits that can transition well or pack a few options.
Increased Cost: Some studios charge extra for travel or extended sessions.
5. What’s Your Vibe? Questions to Ask Yourself
Still unsure? Ask yourself the following:
Do I want to look polished and styled, or more natural and candid?
Am I camera-shy and prefer a quiet space?
How comfortable am I being outdoors?
Is there a location that holds personal significance?
Do I love the look of editorial, posed portraits or more spontaneous moments?
Your answers can help you narrow down the setting that will allow you to shine with confidence.
6. Style Inspo: What Each Setting Can Look Like
Let’s paint a picture.
Studio:
Imagine a dramatic black-and-white image with soft shadows sculpting your curves. Or perhaps a fine-art inspired shot with flowing fabrics and moody lighting.
Location:
Think of a glowing sunset behind you, your silhouette framed by nature, or a joyful moment with your partner barefoot on the sand.
Combo:
Start indoors with professional makeup and hair styling, enjoy a luxurious studio session, and then step outside for a golden hour photo shoot at one of our favorite Sydney locations. It's a story told in chapters. Watch the video below to see one of our combined studio and location maternity sessions, including starting with pampering professional makeup and hair styling.
7. Wardrobe & Styling Tips Based on Setting
Studio: Bold colors, fitted gowns, sheer fabrics, and statement accessories work well. The environment is controlled, so you can go bold with hair and makeup.
Outdoor: Flowing dresses, soft earth tones, and minimal makeup enhance the natural look. Think movement, comfort, and harmony with your environment.
Combo: Mix it up! Choose one glam look and one more relaxed look to show different sides of your motherhood journey.
8. What the Pros Say
Professional photographers often say that both sessions have their charm—but the best results come when clients feel truly themselves in the setting.
Don’t choose based on what’s trending. Choose what makes you feel beautiful, strong, and emotionally connected to the moment.
9. Real-Life Stories: What Other Mamas Chose
Some mamas fall in love with the soft, glowy feel of a natural beach shoot, while others treasure their fine-art studio portraits as heirlooms. And many say a combination gave them the most complete story.
Think about how you want to remember this time. Think about how you want your child to see you one day.
10. Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Session
Book Early: Aim for weeks 28-34 of your pregnancy for the best results.
Discuss Vision with Photographer: Share inspiration and get expert input.
Bring Snacks, Water & Comfy Shoes: Especially for location shoots.
Involve Your Partner or Children: It can make the experience even more heartfelt.
Relax and Trust the Process: A good photographer will guide you and make sure you feel amazing.
Conclusion: Your Session, Your Story
At the end of the day, your maternity photos are about celebrating your journey into motherhood. Whether you choose the crisp elegance of a studio, the wild beauty of an outdoor location, or a seamless blend of both, trust your instincts.
Let your session reflect who you are right now. Because years from now, when you look back at those images, you won’t just see where you were—you’ll feel who you were.
And that, mama, is truly priceless.
Where to Find More Information?
To see more of our Maternity work, please visit our gallery by clicking here.
If you have questions, please get in touch with us through our Contact Page, or by calling us at 0431 591 096.
To book your maternity session or a free consultation, please visit our Book Online Page.
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