Close up of a white lace dress among pink wildflowers in a garden setting.

Maternity Prep Guide

Edinburgh Family & Newborn Photographer

your photographer

So you booked your session. What happens next?

Via e-mail, we will discuss the time and location. I will answer any questions you have. I will also email you on Monday before your session with a remainder.

Pregnancy is a special time of your life, and for many women (although you may not feel like it), you are at your most natural, feminine, and beautiful self. During your pregnancy, your hair is rich and thicker, your breasts are fuller, your skin is glowing, and your body has more curves. For many expecting mothers, there’s no better way to remember their pregnancy and chronicle their journey to motherhood than a professional maternity photoshoot. Here are a few tips to help you look and feel your best in your maternity photoshoot.

Location

Together, we will decide on the best time and location. It can be an outdoor photoshoot, or if you prefer indoor, we can use your home as a background.

Length Of Session

My sessions usually last about an hour. Do not worry. We are not going to rush anything. I want you to have fun. I will make sure you are relaxed and happy with me capturing your memories.

What To Wear

Dress to suit the weather. The wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating.

Wear whatever you feel comfortable and pretty in.

  • Tube top or belly band
  • Regular jeans and a camisole top
  • Buttoned shirt or blouse
  • Long, flowy, or form-fitting dress (e.g. tube dress or a summer maxi dress)
  • Button-ups sweaters or cardigans
  • Any favorite scarves, accessories, jewelry, etc.
  • Any sentimental items (e.g. baby ultrasound image, baby shoes)
Maternity photoshoot guide, maternity photographer Edinburgh and Glasgow. pregnancy photoshoot , photographer Edinburgh

Clothes and location


Fit your style to your location. Choose complimentary colours to your location when choosing your outfits. Strive for colours and textures that coordinate with your location. If you have opted for an in-home session, pick colours from your home to coordinate with.

Keep clothing simple. Use muted colours and minimize busy patterns. Neutral and natural is my favourite combo! Pick a colour palette with 3 or 4 colours and then incorporate the colours throughout the outfits in varying patterns, solids, and layers.

Where to take maternity photos?


  • At-home maternity sessions

At-home maternity sessions are cosy and intimate and capture the essence of your personality, style, and relationship. When you are in your home environment, you are your most relaxed and authentic self, and that comes across through camera lenses.

Your choice of clothing can also be quite relaxed and comfortable; opt for soft-coloured casual wear, or sexy lingerie (if you prefer a more intimate boudoir shoot), and make sure that it complements your partner or other children's style as well.


  • Outdoor maternity shoot

If you are more inclined towards an outdoor photoshoot where the natural light creates that soft, glowing effect on your face and body, then your choice is boundless. You can go more revealing with your bump exposed in a split front dress, or you can conceal the bump with a flowy, beautiful maxi dress that still accentuates your belly and curves.


Mother and child share a tender moment while relaxing on grass outdoors.
Couple relaxing together on couch reading books in bright sunlit room with houseplant by window.
Black and white photo of couple holding hands while walking through an open field.
A delicate daisy flower placed on a pregnant belly.
Outdoor maternity photo with couple sharing a laugh in blue dress and plaid shirt.
Black and white side profile maternity photo taken in natural outdoor setting.
Child in yellow sweater reaching toward a lace dress in a garden setting.
A black and white portrait of an expectant mother laughing outdoors.
A maternity photo in a field with someone in blue dress and companion in plaid shirt.
Close-up of pregnant belly in white dress with hands holding pink flowers.
White lace dress silhouetted against golden field at sunset.
A romantic outdoor maternity photoshoot shows a couple embracing in a sunlit field with mountains in the background.
Black and white portrait of couple holding tiny baby shoes outdoors.
A soft black and white portrait of someone in a white lace dress by a window.
A couple wearing white shirts lies together on white bedding while sharing an intimate moment during a maternity photo session.
Family of three share joyful moment together in golden sunset light on grassy hill.
A tender moment between parent and child by a bright window.
An intimate indoor family moment by a sunny window.
Black and white portrait of someone laying in grass during a maternity photoshoot.
A maternity portrait against blooming pink rhododendrons in spring.
Silhouette of expectant mother overlooking scenic river valley landscape.
A family relaxing together on a wooden park bench surrounded by grass.
Couple poses on stone steps surrounded by autumn foliage wearing blue dress and plaid shirt.
A maternity portrait surrounded by pink flowering bushes in soft lighting.
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Older siblings


Remember that children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Don't worry if your child is running about and active, most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child or toddler was busy playing and exploring. To get the family/maternity shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child or hold the child and we go from there. To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however, I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non-messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session. Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them.

Child in white shirt touching pregnant woman's belly by bright window.
An artistic black and white photograph showing an intimate family moment.
An autumn family portrait on a stone path with fall foliage in the background.
A family shares intimate moments together on a wooded path during golden hour.
A heartwarming black and white family portrait showing parents and two young children sharing a tender moment indoors.
Family shares intimate moment outdoors during golden sunset.
A relaxed family gathering in a sunny field for casual outdoor portraits.
Family sharing joyful moments outdoors on a cobblestone street with purple flowers blooming in the background.
A sweet embrace captured in front of a majestic castle on an autumn day.
Family walking together on a sunny day along a tree-lined street with historic buildings.
Couple embraces near ancient castle ruins on grassy hillside.
A joyful black and white family moment captured indoors showing playful interaction.
Mother and child sharing an intimate moment on a wooden bench in a garden setting.
Family relaxing together on wooden bench in park during spring.
Family walking together on wooden dock by lake during golden autumn afternoon.
Child touching pregnant belly outdoors in lace dress with blooming cherry blossoms.
Family relaxing together by a bay window with floral curtains in a cozy corner of their home.
A casual autumn walk on a wooded path with fall colors in the background.
A pregnant woman in white dress sits by window with toddler in denim overalls.
Toddler in denim overalls looks at camera with serious expression.
A heartwarming family scene near an old stone building with a woman in a flowing dress.
An intimate black and white portrait capturing a tender maternal moment.
Parents helping toddler walk during golden hour in outdoor setting.
Family enjoying an autumn walk together on a path surrounded by golden trees.
A touching maternity photo showing connection between mother and child on a bed.
A candid family moment captured while laying on fallen autumn leaves.
Mother and child share tender moment while relaxing on grass outdoors.
A family stands in their backyard with children playing under a hanging lace curtain.
An intimate black and white photograph capturing a sweet moment with an expectant mother.
Playful laughter captured during intimate family moment on wooden bench.
Close-up view of bare feet on hardwood floor showing parents and children standing together.
A family of five walks together through an autumn field wearing coordinating outfits.
Sweet family moment on a park bench during fall with warm knit sweaters.
A joyful family shares laughs while sitting together in a grassy field.
A tender moment captured outdoors as a woman in white embraces a small child against a natural landscape.
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Pets

Do you want to put your pet in your photos? Amazingly, I love dogs and know how important family members are. Family members come in all shapes and sizes; some are extremely hairy.


PREPARING YOUR DOG FOR A PHOTO SESSION

Exercising your dog before your photo session will help the dog to relax and behave well. Large dogs, especially, can benefit from the opportunity to get their energy out. Plan for this to ensure you have enough time for a walk or play before your photo session.


What to Bring for Your Maternity and Dog Photo Session

Bringing an item that will motivate your dogs, such as treats or a toy, is essential. We can use them to draw their attention and reward them for good behaviour. Please bring water for your dog to stay hydrated during the session.


Depending on the fur type, grooming them before the shoot and bringing a lint roller might also be a good idea. 

Couple holding their fluffy white dog outdoors in black and white photo.
Small child in overalls walking with dog and family on forest path.
Goldendoodle dog yawning while sitting between two people's legs on a path.
Couple walking dog down rural path surrounded by trees and tall grass.
Small white dog and toddler standing on path in black and white photo.
Black dog looking up at pregnant person standing by sunny window with plants.
A pregnant woman in a cream dress stands on a dirt path with her brown dog looking up at her.
Smiling goldendoodle dog with curly golden fur wearing a bowtie outdoors.
Close up of hands petting a curly-haired goldendoodle dog on white background.
A happy husky dog stands between their owners on a stone patio in a black and white photograph.
A curly-haired dog stands with its owners on a scenic hillside path.
A dog lying on a cobblestone path near a stone wall while a couple shares a quiet moment.
Black dog lying on colorful patterned rug next to pink couch.
Cozy living room scene with bay windows, floral curtains, and relaxing on pink sofa.
Happy goldendoodle dog yawning while being held by couple outdoors.
A couple walks hand in hand with their dog through a scenic mountain landscape.
A black and white dog with pointed ears sits alertly on outdoor steps wearing a red collar.
Silhouette of pregnant person and dog standing in archway covered with vines and flowers.
Couple walking with white dog on grassy hillside path.
A black dog sits alertly on stone steps in a garden setting.
Black dog receiving pets while sitting between two people on couch.
Curly-haired dog resting head on pregnant belly in black and white photo.
Dog lying on pregnant woman's belly during outdoor maternity photoshoot.
A black dog peeks at a pregnant belly in an artistic black and white photograph.
Close-up of black dog looking at pregnant belly.
Couple relaxing in sunny field with their goldendoodle dog.
A black dog with perked ears sits in focus on stone steps outdoors.
A black dog gently rests its head on a pregnant belly in an intimate indoor setting.
Family moment with dog in shadowy garden archway surrounded by greenery.
A golden retriever receives affectionate cuddles outdoors in warm sunlight.
A cozy living room scene with a coral couch, floral curtains, and a black dog relaxing on a patterned rug.
Close-up of golden doodle dog with blurred background on dirt path.
Couple sitting on rural path surrounded by tall grass and trees on a sunny day.
A close-up portrait of a black dog with pointed ears standing in front of a white fireplace.
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Posing 

Trust me to direct you in posing so you can look your best. What makes maternity photos different from other portraits is that the images focus on you, your personality, feelings, and your bond with your much-awaited baby. Many maternity poses, such as hands-on the belly and eyes looking down, express emotions and connection to your belly. Other maternity poses empathize with the beautiful curves of your body.

What to Bring on Photoshoot Day


To make your session as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are a few helpful items to bring:


  • Comfortable Footwear: Choose flats or wellies, depending on the location. If we're in a field or on uneven terrain, something easy to walk in is key.
  • Sentimental Blanket: If you have a special blanket with personal meaning, bring it along. I always have one with me, but your blanket adds a unique, heartfelt touch.
  • Weather Essentials: A cozy scarf, hat, or an umbrella (clear or colorful) is perfect, especially if the weather is unpredictable. It adds a lovely touch to the photos while keeping you warm and dry.
  • Personal Props: An ultrasound photo, or a special toy make adorable, personal additions to the session.
  • Snacks & Water: A light snack or water bottle is great if you need to take a break during the shoot and recharge.
  • Stylish Bag: A comfortable, stylish bag to carry your essentials, like water, snacks, or any personal items you want to bring. We’ll make sure it stays out of frame while keeping everything close by.

UPGRADE YOUR PACKAGE TO BUMP TO BABY

add Newborn session

AFTER THE SESSION

Your online gallery is ready!


I aim to deliver your online gallery within 2 weeks after the photoshoot. You’ll receive a link to a beautiful online gallery where you can view and download your photos.


HOW TO CHOOSE FROM ALL THE IMAGES ?

You don't have to choose! My pricing has been created in a way that you get the very best savings when you purchase all of your images.  Personally, I can never choose a few images from a gallery of my own children so I don't want you to have to choose either! I also offer a lot of images within your gallery so that when purchasing all images you get a lot of value from your investment.


Your gallery will be available for viewing and ordering for 2 weeks. You may share your gallery link with family and friends. Please be prepared to back up your files. Your images can take up to 4 GB of space on your computer.

If you do not have enough space on your device you can purchase an USB with your images for additional £50.


No RAW files available for sale.


Photos that languish on a hard drive break my heart – I love to see how you can use the images we create together to really make your house a home. 

Depending on your location, you’ll also be able to order high quality prints and photo album directly through your online gallery .

Products which you can order after receiving youR gallery

PRINTS | UNFRAMED FINE ART PRINTS


Unframed prints are a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy the moments we’ve captured. Choose your favourite photos directly from your gallery, and they’ll be printed by a professional lab and delivered straight to your door.


No need to search for a printing shop—your prints arrive ready to be placed in your frames and enjoyed every day.


PRICES START FROM JUST £14

A newborn baby photo print lies among scattered photographs on a dark surface.

STORYTELLING PHOTO BOOK

SIZE AVAILABLE: 12X8 | 20 PAGES


Capture your most treasured memories in a luxurious Storytelling Photobook crafted with elegance and attention to detail. Printed on premium Mohawk Eggshell 216gsm paper, this book offers a beautiful matte art finish.

This photo book is the ideal size for displaying your story. Choose from various leatherette, textile, or velvet covers, each customizable to suit your style.


A timeless keepsake for your family, this photobook combines luxury and storytelling to preserve your most meaningful moments. 


PRICES START FROM £185

Three stacked velvet books in brown, pink and blue with dried white cotton flowers on top.

FINE ART ALBUMS

SIZES AVAILABLE: 8X8', 10X10', 12X12'


A book that tells about the most important moments of your family. This premium quality Photo Album, designed exclusively for professional photographers, is far and away above what is commonly associated with photo books. 


10 thick, 800 gsm spreads in this luxury Photo Album. Lay-flat binding allows you to show your photo uninterrupted over a double-page spread. 


If you would like to create this beautiful keepsake simply let me know and I would be honoured to create this amazing memory book from your session.


PRICES START FROM £250

1+2 Album Family Package


This package includes 3 identical albums.

One main album 12x12" and two smaller downscaled versions 8x8".


The perfect gift for grandparents or other loved ones.


Two linen-bound photo albums on blue surface in neutral tones.

CLASSIC GALLERY FRAME

AVAILABLE Now


Enhance your favourite photos with our Classic Gallery Frame—a timeless choice for showcasing your memories. With sleek, handcrafted frames available in satin black, satin white, beige, or mahogany, this frame offers a clean and modern design. Choose from a white mat for a classic touch or no mat for a minimalist look.


If you don’t see the size you’re looking for, please contact me, and I’ll be happy to help.


PRICES START FROM £100

Black and white framed photo displayed above dark dresser with modern blue table lamp and decorative accents.

EDGE PRINT

AVAILABLE now


Elevate your images with EdgePrint—a contemporary wall display featuring sleek, panelled edges for a modern, frameless look. This ready-to-hang piece is perfect for showcasing large prints, adding a bold statement to any space. Available in various sizes to suit your needs.


If you don’t see the size you’re looking for, please let me know, and I’ll be happy to assist with custom options.


PRICES START FROM £116

Stack of professional photo prints on different materials showing mounted photographic artwork and wall display options.

I CAN't WAIT TO MEET YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

Feel free to email dorota@markowskaphoto.com with any questions you might have.

Thank you, and I look forward to capturing you and your family!

Dorota🌿

Someone in a cream sweater and jeans sits on a wooden dock by the beach on a cloudy day.