Couples Maternity Photography: Capturing Love and Anticipation Together
Pregnancy is a journey two people take together. While solo maternity portraits are beautiful, including your partner creates images that tell a fuller story—one of love, anticipation, and the family you're building together.
Couples maternity photography captures the connection between you and your partner as you prepare to welcome new life. These are the photos your children will study someday, seeing the love that existed before they arrived.
"The way a partner looks at an expecting mother—that's love made visible. We capture that moment forever."
Why Include Your Partner?
Many expecting mothers initially plan solo sessions, thinking maternity photography is "just about the bump." But including your partner adds dimension and emotion that solo portraits simply can't match:
- Their presence shows your child they were loved before they arrived
- Partners provide natural poses—embracing, holding the bump, kissing foreheads
- Many moms feel more relaxed with their partner there for support
- These images become cherished family heirlooms
- Your partner can see themselves as a parent-to-be, not just a spectator
Romantic Poses for Couples Maternity Sessions
Great couples maternity photography feels natural, not stiff or awkward. Here are poses that consistently create beautiful, emotional images:
The Embrace from Behind
Partner stands behind mom, arms wrapped around her bump. This classic pose showcases the baby while showing protection and love. Perfect for silhouettes and studio lighting.
The Forehead Kiss
Partner gently kisses mom's forehead while she closes her eyes. This intimate moment captures tenderness and care—emotions that define parenthood.
The Look
Mom looks at the camera while partner gazes at her. This creates a powerful image where viewers see both her beauty and how loved she is.
Both Hands on Bump
Both partners place their hands on the bump together, fingers interlaced or overlapping. This pose emphasizes partnership and shared anticipation.
Walking Together
Holding hands and walking slowly creates natural movement and candid-feeling images. Works beautifully for on-location sessions at beach or park settings.
The Whisper
Partner whispers to the bump—either something sweet or something silly to make mom laugh. Both create genuine emotional moments.
What Should Partners Wear?
Coordinating without matching is the key. Here's what works:
For Him
- Solid colors that complement (not match exactly) mom's outfit
- Button-down shirts in neutral tones—white, gray, navy, black
- Dark jeans or khakis that won't distract from mom
- Avoid large logos, busy patterns, and bright whites that draw focus
Color Coordination
- If mom wears burgundy, partner can wear gray or navy
- If mom wears blush pink, partner can wear cream or tan
- If mom wears emerald green, partner can wear charcoal or black
- Earth tones work universally well together
Tips for Partners Who "Don't Like Being in Photos"
Many partners are reluctant about being photographed. If yours is hesitant, here's what to know:
- You don't have to be the focus. In couples maternity photos, mom and bump are the stars. Partners are supporting cast—which means less pressure.
- Direction is provided. I'll tell you exactly where to put your hands, where to look, and how to stand. You don't need to know what to do.
- Most images focus on connection, not individual poses. Looking at your partner, holding her, kissing her—these are things you already know how to do.
- Your partner wants you there. Your presence creates better images and helps her feel supported.
- You'll be glad you did it. Years from now, your child will treasure seeing mom AND dad in these photos.
"I've photographed plenty of reluctant partners. By the end of the session, they're usually having fun and asking when they can see the photos."
Studio vs. On-Location for Couples
Studio Sessions
Studio sessions offer complete privacy and control. For couples, this means:
- No worrying about crowds or public spaces
- Dramatic lighting that flatters both partners
- Climate-controlled comfort
- Focus entirely on your connection
On-Location Sessions
Outdoor sessions provide natural beauty and variety:
- Romantic beach walks at sunset
- Lush park settings with natural light
- Scenic backdrops that become part of the story
- More space for walking and movement poses
Including Older Children
If you have other children, including them creates beautiful family maternity portraits. Older siblings kissing the bump, standing between parents, or being held by dad while mom stands close—these moments document your complete family before it grows.
For family maternity sessions, we recommend starting with the full group, then doing couples-only shots while kids take a break, and finishing with individual shots of mom if desired.
Same-Sex Couples and All Family Structures
Love is love, and family takes many forms. Whether you're a same-sex couple, have a surrogate, or your family structure looks different from "traditional," we celebrate and photograph your unique story with the same care and artistry.
Your maternity session should reflect who you are as a couple and as expecting parents. Period.
Capture Your Love Story
Your pregnancy is a beautiful chapter you're writing together. Let's create images that celebrate both the baby you're expecting and the love between you.
Book Your SessionOr call: 757-759-8454