One of the first decisions you’ll make when planning your maternity photography session is whether to go indoors or outdoors.

There’s no right or wrong choice… it really comes down to your personality, your comfort, and the kind of images you’re drawn to.

Some mums love the clean, timeless look of a studio. Others feel most themselves outside in natural light. If you’re unsure which direction to go, here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

The Studio Experience: Calm, Minimal and Timeless

Choosing a pregnancy photo studio setting gives you a controlled, relaxed environment. There’s no worrying about weather, wind, or temperature – everything is carefully set up to create soft, flattering light and a simple backdrop that keeps the focus on you.

Studio sessions are perfect if you:

Prefer privacy
Love a clean, minimalist aesthetic
Want a more intimate, editorial feel
Feel more comfortable indoors

The beauty of a studio session is its simplicity. With neutral tones and controlled lighting, the images tend to feel classic and elegant. They also pair beautifully with future sessions in a newborn photography studio, creating a cohesive look if you plan to document both stages.

Another advantage? Comfort. Especially in the later weeks of pregnancy, having somewhere warm, quiet, and close to amenities can make the experience far more enjoyable.

The Outdoor Experience: Natural, Soft and Organic

Outdoor maternity photoshoots offer something completely different. Think open space, natural textures, and beautiful golden light.

If you’re drawn to movement, scenery, and a slightly more relaxed feel, the outdoors might be for you. Long dresses catching the breeze, warm sunset tones, and a sense of openness can create stunning, emotive images.

Outdoor sessions are ideal if you:

Love nature and being outside
Feel relaxed in open spaces
Want variety in your backgrounds
Are drawn to that golden-hour glow

Of course, outdoor shoots do rely on the weather. Wind, temperature, and timing all play a role. That said, with good planning, they can feel incredibly effortless and natural.

Thinking About Your Personality

This is often the deciding factor.

If you prefer structure, predictability, and privacy, studio sessions tend to feel easier. If you’re more spontaneous and love natural surroundings, an outdoor shoot may feel more “you.”

There’s also no rule that says maternity sessions have to look a certain way. The goal is to create images that reflect this season of your life in a way that feels authentic.

Considering Comfort

Pregnancy affects everyone differently. By 30-36 weeks, some women feel energetic and happy to wander through a field at sunset. Others prefer minimal walking, and somewhere they can sit down between shots.

Be honest about how you’re feeling physically. Comfort always comes first. The more at ease you are, the better your images will be.

Styling Differences

Your location often influences what you’ll wear, which is why planning and styling your maternity shoot thoughtfully matters.

For studio sessions:

Neutral and colour tones work beautifully
Structured silhouettes photograph well
Minimal accessories keep the look clean
If you choose them, nearly nude shots are always captured in complete privacy

For outdoor sessions:

Flowing fabrics add movement
Layered textures complement natural settings
Soft, earthy tones blend seamlessly with the landscape

If you’re unsure, we’ll always discuss wardrobe before your session so everything feels cohesive.

Thinking Ahead

Many clients book both maternity and newborn sessions. If that’s your plan, it’s worth considering how the two will sit together visually.

A studio maternity session pairs naturally with a studio newborn session for a timeless, consistent gallery. An outdoor maternity session can create a lovely contrast to a softly styled newborn session indoors. It’s simply something to think about if you love the idea of cohesive albums or wall art.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If you love simplicity, privacy, and a classic look, a studio session is likely the right fit.

If you’re drawn to natural light, open space, and movement, outdoor sessions offer something beautifully organic.

And if you’re still unsure? Let’s talk. We can discuss how you’re feeling, what kind of images you’re drawn to, and what will make you most comfortable on the day.

The best maternity session isn’t about following trends. It’s about creating an experience that feels relaxed, personal, and true to you, whether that’s inside a calm studio space or on a beach at sunset.

Whichever you choose, the goal is the same: simple, honest images that capture this chapter in a way that feels natural and lasting.