How to Prepare for a Maternity Photoshoot in Amsterdam and beyond
Pregnancy is a journey filled with quiet magic — a chapter where everything changes in the softest and most powerful ways. Your body grows, your emotions deepen, and every week brings something new.
Preparing for your maternity photoshoot in Amsterdam isn’t just about choosing outfits or finding a pretty spot.
It’s about capturing the tenderness of this moment before it transforms into the next one. Most of all — it's about feeling comfortable, beautiful, and truly yourself. This guide will help you prepare with ease, confidence, and a little joy.
What to Wear — Comfort First, Beauty Naturally Follows
After photographing many expecting moms, I’ve learned something very simple:
when you feel comfortable, you look beautiful.
And comfort can look very different from woman to woman.
Flowy dresses and soft fabrics
Yes, long dresses that move with the wind are always beautiful — they add emotion, softness, and a sense of movement.
But casual, everyday outfits are just as perfect
Many of my favorite maternity portraits were taken with: jeans and an oversized white shirt, a simple fitted top, a cozy sweater, leggings with a neutral cardigan. Casual pieces highlight your natural beauty — and often feel more “you,” which always translates well on camera.
Neutral tones work best
Cream, beige, soft pastels, warm earth colors. Amsterdam’s light loves them.
Bring one extra option
Sometimes you feel different once you’re in front of the camera — and it’s always nice to have another style ready.
Choosing the Right Location For Your Maternity Shooting — Find What Feels Like “You”
Amsterdam gives so many beautiful possibilities for maternity photoshoots, but I like to think of all locations in four simple categories.
Each one creates its own mood:
1. At Home — intimate and quiet
Perfect if you want soft, personal images with a slow, peaceful atmosphere.
Ideal for cozy sweaters, bare-belly photos, minimalistic portraits.
2. Studio — clean, aesthetic, timeless
Amsterdam has wonderful studios with natural light, calm colors, and space to move.
Great for simple outfits, underwear sets, or artistic maternity poses.
3. Nature — beaches, dunes, fields, forest edges
If you want more space and a sense of freedom, the sea is only 30 minutes from Amsterdam.
Soft wind, pastel skies, dunes — maternity photos look magical there.
4. Amsterdam city streets — charming, warm, beautiful
Canals, bridges, narrow streets, hidden corners.
Perfect if you want your maternity story to reflect your connection with the city.
If you're unsure what fits your style, I’ll help choose a spot that matches your mood and personality.
I also keep my own curated list of favorite locations — and if you want to explore a bit on your own, you can peek at some of them here:
→ My guide to couple and individual photoshoot locations in Amsterdam
When to Schedule Your Maternity Photoshoot
The sweetest spot for a maternity photoshoot is usually between 28 and 32 weeks. By this time your bump has a beautiful shape, but your body still feels comfortable enough to move, pose, and enjoy the experience without too much heaviness or fatigue.
Some moms try to schedule as late as possible, hoping for the biggest bump — but that’s absolutely not necessary. The last weeks can be physically tough, and a photoshoot during that time often feels more tiring than joyful.
For some women, the bump shows beautifully already around 24 weeks, and those sessions look just as stunning. It’s truly individual: choose the moment that feels right for your body, your energy, and the style you want to capture.
The Day Before Your Photoshoot
The day before your session is all about slowing down and giving yourself a bit of gentle care. A calm mind and a comfortable body always translate beautifully on camera.
Try to get a good night’s sleep so you wake up rested — it makes such a difference for your eyes, skin, and overall mood. Drink water throughout the day, but don’t overdo it to avoid swelling. Keep your meals light and balanced: fruits, vegetables, something simple and easy for your stomach.
Your skin will look lovely with a bit of pampering. A warm shower, moisturizer, maybe a gentle exfoliation if that’s part of your usual routine — nothing complicated, just a moment for yourself.
In the evening, prepare your outfits and any accessories you want to bring. Having everything ready helps you start the next day without rushing or stress.
And most importantly — give yourself a quiet evening. Skip heavy errands, long walks, or anything exhausting. Let it be a soft, peaceful night: a warm bath, a short walk, or simply relaxing at home. This calm energy will follow you into the photoshoot and make your images feel even more natural and serene.
Small Details That Make a Big Difference
A few practical pregnancy photography tips:
- Avoid tight clothing before the shoot — it leaves marks
- Moisturize your hands for soft close-ups
- Bring water
- A warm layer is essential, especially near the sea
- If meaningful items feel right (ultrasound, baby shoes, letters) — bring them
Not required — but sometimes they add emotional depth.
I'm Here To Capture Your Pregnancy Period
Your maternity photoshoot is more than a photoshoot — it’s a little pause in your journey. A moment to breathe and celebrate the life growing inside you.
If you’d like me to photograph this chapter — or if you still have questions and aren’t sure where to begin — just write me. We’ll plan everything gently and without pressure. Connect with me VIA 📷 WhatsApp: +31 6 3095 9499 or just feel the for below.