Why Include Your Partner & Kids in Maternity Photos
A new baby changes everything. Before your family grows, these portraits freeze a moment that will never come again -- the anticipation, the excitement, the love between you all as you wait for your newest arrival.
Capture the Before
Once your baby arrives, life moves fast. Family maternity photos with kids document the last chapter of your current family dynamic -- a priceless record your children will treasure as they grow up.
Celebrate Connection
A maternity session with your partner captures the emotional bond between you during one of life's most transformative moments. Couples maternity photography in Hampton Roads tells a deeper story than solo portraits alone.
Include Siblings Early
Involving older children in the maternity session helps them feel part of the journey. Kissing the belly, holding ultrasound photos, wearing "big brother" or "big sister" shirts -- these moments build excitement and create memories they will look back on fondly.
No Extra Cost
At Motiontography, your partner and children are included in the Maternity Signature package at no additional charge. Whether it is just the two of you or the whole crew, your session fee stays the same.
Tips for Partners: What to Know Before the Session
Whether you are excited or a little nervous about being in front of the camera, this section is for you. Your presence makes the photos better -- here is how to feel confident and look great.
What to Wear as the Partner
You do not need to overthink this. The goal is to complement your partner without competing for attention. Here are the basics:
- Coordinate colors -- match the overall palette, not the exact outfit. If she is in dusty rose, you might wear charcoal, navy, or deep burgundy.
- Avoid logos, bold graphics, and busy patterns -- they distract from the emotion and the bump.
- Solid, muted tones work best -- think earth tones, neutrals, and classic colors.
- Fitted but comfortable -- avoid oversized or baggy clothing that hides your frame.
- Iron or steam your outfit -- wrinkles show up in photos more than you expect.
See our full Maternity Wardrobe Guide for more detailed styling recommendations.
Natural Posing for Couples
You will not need to memorize poses -- Roger guides you through every shot. But here are some of the natural, intimate poses that work beautifully for couples maternity photography:
- Hands on the belly together -- both of you cradling the bump, your hands layered over hers.
- Forehead touches -- stand close, eyes closed, foreheads gently resting together. This creates an intimate, emotional image.
- Walking together -- holding hands, looking at each other, strolling naturally. Works especially well for on-location sessions.
- Embracing from behind -- partner wraps arms around the belly from behind while both of you look down or toward each other.
- Kissing the bump -- partner kneels and kisses the belly. A classic for a reason.
- Whispered moments -- leaning in close, whispering something that makes her laugh or smile naturally.
For Camera-Shy Partners
Many partners feel uncertain about being photographed, and that is perfectly normal. Here is what we want you to know:
- You do not need to "perform" -- just be present. Hold her hand, touch her belly, look at her. That is the whole job.
- Roger directs every moment -- you will never be left standing there wondering what to do. Every movement and expression is guided.
- Many poses do not show your face directly -- silhouettes, over-the-shoulder angles, and close-ups of hands on the belly are all powerful images that keep the focus on the connection.
- It goes faster than you think -- partners typically join for about 30-45 minutes of the 3-hour session, not the entire time.
Your presence matters more than being photogenic. She wants you there, and the photos will mean everything to your family.
Including Children & Toddlers in Maternity Photos
Whether your little one is 18 months or 8 years old, including siblings in your maternity session adds warmth, joy, and a beautiful narrative to your gallery. Here is what to expect at every age.
Working with Different Age Groups
Under 2 Years Old
At this age, we keep it simple. Holding on to mama, sitting in a parent's lap, or being lifted up next to the belly. We work quickly and follow their lead rather than forcing poses.
Ages 2-4 (Toddlers)
Toddlers are the most unpredictable -- and often the most magical. We might get a perfect belly kiss or we might get a full meltdown. Both are real, and we photograph it all. Expect short attention spans and plan for flexibility.
Ages 5-8
This is the sweet spot. Kids this age can follow directions, hold poses briefly, and genuinely express excitement about becoming a big sibling. They often produce the most heartwarming images of the session.
Ages 9+
Older children and pre-teens bring maturity and genuine emotion to family maternity photos. They can engage meaningfully with the camera and with the concept of the new baby joining the family.
Timing Around Nap Schedules
For toddlers and babies, timing is everything. During your consultation call, we will discuss your child's daily schedule and plan accordingly:
- Morning sessions work well for early risers who tend to fade by afternoon.
- Late afternoon sessions can work if your child naps after lunch and wakes refreshed.
- Avoid scheduling during nap time -- a well-rested toddler is a cooperative toddler.
- Since we photograph mom solo first, children only need to be "on" for the last portion of the session, which keeps their required focus time short.
What to Bring for Kids
- Snacks -- non-messy favorites (goldfish, fruit snacks, dry cereal) for bribery and energy.
- A favorite toy or comfort item -- something they can hold between shots to stay calm.
- A change of clothes -- spills and accidents happen. Always have a backup outfit ready.
- A tablet or phone loaded with shows -- for keeping them entertained during downtime while mom and dad are being photographed alone.
- A helper -- if possible, bring a grandparent, aunt, or friend who can wrangle your child off-camera between their shots.
Realistic Expectations
Let's be honest: maternity photos with a toddler are not always Pinterest-perfect. And that is completely fine. Here is what we want you to know:
- Your toddler may refuse to look at the camera. That is okay.
- There may be tears, wiggles, or a flat-out "no." That is normal.
- Roger has photographed hundreds of families with young children. He knows how to work quickly, use playful prompts, and capture genuine moments between the chaos.
- Some of the most treasured family images come from unscripted, imperfect moments -- a toddler running away laughing, a big sister whispering to the belly, a child clinging to mama's leg.
- We build in extra time specifically for families with young children, so there is no pressure and no rush.
Sibling Announcement Ideas
Want to make the session extra special for your older children? Here are some popular props and ideas:
- "Big Brother" or "Big Sister" shirts -- a classic that photographs beautifully and gives kids a sense of pride.
- Ultrasound photo as a prop -- your child holding the sonogram image next to the belly.
- Baby shoes or tiny outfits -- the family holding tiny shoes together makes a sweet, simple composition.
- Chalkboard signs -- "Promoted to Big Sister" or the baby's due date, name, or a special message.
- Matching family accessories -- coordinated headbands, bowties, or flower crowns can tie the look together.
- A storybook about becoming a sibling -- mom reading to the child with the belly visible creates a naturally beautiful scene.
How a Family Maternity Session Flows
We structure the 3-hour session strategically to get the best results from everyone, especially the youngest members of the family. Here is the typical flow:
Solo Mom Portraits (60-90 Minutes)
We begin with you alone. This is the fine art portion -- flowing gowns, dramatic lighting, artistic composites, and multiple outfit changes. Partners and kids can relax, play, or wait comfortably off-set during this phase. Starting here ensures you get your individual portraits when your hair and makeup are freshest.
Partner Joins (30-45 Minutes)
Next, your partner steps in for couples maternity portraits. We focus on intimate, connection-driven poses: hands on the belly, forehead touches, embraces, and walking together. This is where the romance of your pregnancy story comes through. If you are camera-shy, remember that Roger guides every moment -- you just need to show up and be present.
Children Join (20-30 Minutes)
Finally, we bring the kids in while they are still fresh and happy. We work quickly with younger children, using playful prompts, silly sounds, and bribery when needed. We capture family group shots, individual moments with each child touching or kissing the belly, and any sibling announcement props you have brought along. If a toddler hits their limit, we wrap up gracefully -- we will already have all your solo and couples shots secured.
Wrap-Up & What Comes Next
After the session, your images go through professional editing with a 10-day turnaround. Your private online gallery will include 15 edited images (11 advanced + 4 composites). Unedited proofs are also included so you do not miss a single moment. Print products, albums, and wall art are available as add-ons.
This flow can be adjusted based on your family's needs. We discuss everything during the pre-session consultation. Read our full session prep guide.
Family Outfit Coordination Guide
Coordinating outfits does not mean everyone wears the same thing. The goal is a cohesive look that lets the emotional connection between your family shine through. Here are our recommended approaches:
Earthy & Neutral
A timeless palette that works in any setting, studio or outdoor.
- Mom: Cream, taupe, or olive gown
- Partner: Tan, khaki, or olive tones
- Kids: Cream, beige, or soft sage
Romantic & Moody
Rich tones that photograph beautifully in our studio with dramatic lighting.
- Mom: Dusty rose, burgundy, or mauve gown
- Partner: Charcoal, navy, or deep plum
- Kids: Blush, soft pink, or light gray
Classic & Elegant
A polished look for families who want something timeless.
- Mom: White, ivory, or gold gown
- Partner: Black, dark gray, or navy
- Kids: White, ivory, or light blue
Bold & Jewel-Toned
For families who want vibrant, eye-catching imagery with impact.
- Mom: Emerald, royal blue, or deep red gown
- Partner: Black or coordinating dark tone
- Kids: Complementary jewel tones or neutral offsets
What to Avoid
- Neon or overly bright colors
- Large logos or brand names
- Busy patterns (large plaid, Hawaiian prints)
- Character clothing (for kids)
- Everyone in the exact same outfit
- Clashing colors between family members
Family Maternity Pose Inspiration
Here are some of the most popular and meaningful family maternity poses we create during sessions. Use these as inspiration when planning your shoot.
Couples Poses
- Partner standing behind, arms wrapped around the belly
- Foreheads touching with eyes closed, silhouetted against studio light
- Walking hand-in-hand along the beach at golden hour
- Partner kneeling, kissing the bump
- Both sets of hands forming a heart shape on the belly
- Dramatic flowing fabric with partner partially hidden behind
Sibling Poses
- Child kissing or hugging mama's belly
- Child holding ultrasound photo next to the bump
- Big sibling wearing announcement shirt, looking at camera proudly
- Mom and child reading a "new baby" storybook together
- Child whispering "secrets" to the baby through the belly
- Everyone's hands stacked on the bump, smallest on top
Full Family Poses
- Family walking together, laughing naturally
- Group hug around mama's belly
- Partner lifting child while mom cradles the bump
- Laying together on a blanket, belly in the center
- Whole family holding baby shoes together
- Candid laughter captured between posed shots
Roger will guide you through every pose. You do not need to memorize anything -- just bring your love and we will handle the rest.
Family Maternity Session FAQs
Is my partner included in the maternity session price?
Yes! Your partner is included in both our Studio and On-Location Maternity Signature packages at no additional cost. We always begin with solo portraits of mom, then your partner joins for couples maternity photos. There is no separate sitting fee or extra charge.
What if my toddler won't cooperate during the session?
Toddlers are unpredictable -- and that is completely normal. Roger has over 14 years of experience photographing families with young children throughout Hampton Roads. We schedule family shots strategically so kids stay fresh, build in extra time for breaks and snacks, and work with playful prompts. Many of the most treasured images come from candid, unscripted toddler moments rather than perfectly posed shots.
Should the whole family wear matching outfits?
Coordinate, don't match. We recommend choosing a cohesive color palette of 2-3 complementary tones and dressing each family member in shades within that palette. Avoid bold logos, busy patterns, and neon colors. Check out our Outfit Coordination Guide above or our detailed Wardrobe Guide for specific palette suggestions.
Can grandparents or other family members join?
Absolutely! While our session is designed around mom, partner, and children, we are happy to include grandparents or other close family members for a few group shots. Just let us know during your consultation so we can plan the session flow accordingly.
How many outfit changes can we do with a family?
Mom can do 2-3 outfit changes during the 3-hour session. For partners and children, we recommend 1-2 coordinated outfits to keep things manageable and minimize downtime. We suggest starting in your most polished family look while everyone is fresh, then transitioning to more relaxed styling for later sets.
What age is best for including children in maternity photos?
Every age works, but differently. Children ages 5-8 tend to be the most cooperative and expressive. Toddlers (2-4) are unpredictable but often produce magical candid moments. Babies under 2 can be held and positioned easily. Older kids (9+) bring genuine emotion and maturity. We tailor our approach to your child's age and personality.
Can we include our pet in the maternity session?
Yes! Pets are part of the family too. Dogs are the most common addition to maternity sessions. For studio sessions, make sure your pet is comfortable in new environments. For outdoor sessions, bring a leash and a handler to manage the pet between shots. We will discuss logistics during your consultation.
Last updated: February 2026
Book Your Family Maternity Session
Your growing family deserves beautiful portraits that capture this fleeting, exciting chapter. Partners and children are always included at no extra cost.