Maternity Photography for Second-Time Moms: Capturing the Journey Differently

Embracing a New Chapter: How Second Pregnancies Feel Different

Pregnancy is a big chapter in your life, but the second time around just feels different. Many moms feel a new sort of calm, knowing what to expect. You trust your instincts and choices more, using your experience to make everything a little easier. You start to appreciate the little things: the stolen naps, the quiet moments, the time being present. You realize what truly matters – and what doesn’t. Instead of focusing on perfectly folded onesies and the latest gadgets, you’ll pay more attention to what you and your baby actually need. Your body shows earlier, and your heart starts to split between your firstborn and the baby on the way. That being said, second pregnancies can still come with its own kind of stress. Guilt sneaks in as you try to split up your time, love, and attention between your current baby and soon-to-be newborn. You may even grieve the final days of your firstborn being your “only”, knowing that soon things will change. You’ll begin to realize that not everything has to be perfect, and that there’s joy in watching your children bond before they’ve even met. Sure, this time is different… but the love just keeps growing.

Including the Firstborn: Making Siblings Part of the Story

One of the sweetest parts of second-time maternity portraits is including siblings in the shoot. Letting your older child bring a favorite toy helps show off their personality and make the photos extra. Having them “help” with the shoot – like holding a sign or touching your belly – shows the genuine connection they already have with the baby. This helps capture natural interactions, showing the candid scenes between you and your little one. The “in-between” moments like hugs, curious looks, even shyness toward mom’s belly adds an adorable element to your portraits. Candid play or movements such as running, twirling, or dancing adds life to your photos. Including generational touches – like inviting grandma or recreating a photo from your first pregnancy – adds extra meaning to your maternity photoshoot. Embracing imperfections makes it more real through every tear, giggle, and smile. Small touches like matching outfits or unique props adds to the excitement. At the end of the day, it’s about documenting the love that’s already growing before the baby arrives.

A pregnant woman in a flowing, ruffled mauve gown stands against a soft, pinkish background, gently cradling her belly and looking down with a serene expression.

Location Matters: Choosing Meaningful Spots for Your Second Maternity Shoot

Choosing the right location for your shoot can transform your photos. Consider using spots that hold personal meaning. The nursery makes for a cozy, emotional setting – especially if your older kids helped decorate. At glow portraits, we love shooting at your home for intimate, real-life photos. To keep things fun and fresh, many moms choose to go to a favorite park or nature spot. Shooting outdoors at golden hour when the light is soft can help give your photos a warm, ethereal feel. Seasonal vibes can also help set the mood for your portraits, from snowy woods to blooming gardens to colorful fall leaves. Places where siblings can play around are great for candid, playful shots. Urban spots like murals, bridges, or in front of the city can add a stylish and modern feel. And if you’re looking for a simple, stress-free session, our studio is the perfect space to tell your story. Our stylish, clean backdrops give your pregnancy portraits a timeless look that won’t go out of style. With controlled lighting, we can create the perfect mood no matter the weather or time of day. Our goal is to make your session as perfect as possible for you and your family.

A pregnant woman stands gracefully, wrapped in flowing yellow fabric against a warm yellow background. She cradles her belly with both hands as the fabric billows dramatically behind her, creating an edgy pregnancy portrait.

Working with a Photographer Who Understands Second-Time Moms

Our photographers specialize in capturing heartfelt occasions. At our studio, nearly everyone is a parent, so we totally get how important patience and a kid-friendly environment is. With more than fifteen years of working with moms and children, we’ve become experts in making our maternity sessions both smooth and enjoyable. We move at your kids’ pace to keep things relaxed and fun, so no one gets overwhelmed. Short breaks keep the little ones happy and the shoot flowing smoothly. Bringing favorite toys can also help kids feel right at home. We’re great with all ages – from newborns to big kids. We highlight your unique vibe through a mix of posed shots and natural poses throughout your maternity session. We also focus on real moments, capturing candid photos to give your portraits more meaning. Let us help you create lasting memories that reflect your family’s love.

A pregnant woman in a long, flowing yellow skirt poses gracefully on pointe during a maternity photoshoot, with one hand on her chest and the other arm extended, set against a neutral background.

Creating a Legacy: Why Every Pregnancy Deserves to Be Celebrated

Every child has their own story. By capturing your journey through motherhood, we help honor the most beautiful and meaningful pieces of this stage in your life. From soft kicks to tiny hands to sweet glaces, we’re here to document every moment with you. We focus on documenting not just how you and your baby look, but how you feel. This is your chance to pause and savor this chapter before everything changes again. These photos of you and your family can show your children how deeply they were loved from the start. Maternity Photography is a gift for both you and your children, preserving memories of love, connection, and growth that will be treasured for years to come.

A pregnant woman in a flowing, golden-brown dress stands smiling in an NYC photo studio against a brown background, holding her belly with one hand and her chest with the other as the dress billows dramatically to one side.

Adding a personal touch to your Maternity Photos

Adding Personal Touches: Your NYC Pregnancy Photography

Your maternity photoshoot is a big deal. From the moment you wake up to the moment you step off the set, you want every little detail perfected. While we can assure you of a stunning pregnancy photography experience, a big question remains.

How can I be sure that my NYC maternity photoshoot captures my personality? What extra things can I do to make my prenatal portraits feel more personalized?

Here, we diving into the top ways to add personalized touches to your photoshoot. We want to maintain comfort and safety for our moms-to-be without neglecting style and vibes. Here are a few things you can mention to your photographer in and out of an NYC photo studio.

Picking the Perfect Outfit For Your NYC Prenatal Portraits

Being Comfortable and Stylish

Comfort is essential when planning your photoshoot. You’ll book your maternity photographer further along in your pregnancy for some great baby bump pictures. All this means is you may need to put those heels up.

By no means does that mean you’re sacrificing style. Many NYC maternity photoshoot-appropriate attire options include casual outfits and cultural wear. You can still wear your typical style but with a twist.

Styling the Bump

Mentioning style with a twist, if you are more of a casual dresser, you can always opt for some overalls or fitted jeans with a top. This way, you can show off the bump while maintaining your style in the photo studio.

If you want to be more glamorous, choose flowing fabrics that dress the bump or form-fitting styles. You can then add some extra drama with accessories. PS. Your maternity photographer can even assist with some style tips!

Perfecting Color Palette

Any photographer will agree that classic neutrals offer timeless pregnancy photography. Pastels bring a softer sense to the photoshoot. And, if you want bold prenatal portraits, you can choose a strong color like red to accentuate your feminine strength.

Setting the Mood With Lighting: In Nature Or The Photo Studio

Natural Lighting

A NYC maternity photographer always prefers lighting during the golden hour. This can be around sunrise or sunset when you get a stunning golden glow. This lighting offers an ethereal and soft aesthetic. Your prenatal portraits will have a delicate, feminine feel, while your photographer is there to guide you through perfect poses.

Photo Studio Lighting

Studio lighting is great for moms-to-be who want a more polished, high-fashion, or dramatic feel for their pregnancy photoshoot. Booking an NYC photo studio session doesn’t mean you have to opt for these high-fashion prenatal portraits. Your maternity photographer is there to set the scene for any aesthetic you desire.

Most photo studio lighting was designed to mimic natural lighting. It can even mimic the perfect golden hour setting or overcast vibes to limit harsh or intense shadows. This is great for a photoshoot in the winter, avoiding the summer heat, or rescheduling a shoot due to weather.

Creative Options

Another perk of photo studio pregnancy photography is all the lighting tricks your maternity photography can do. Lighting gels cast different hues, making for some great gender reveal shots or a fresh take on classic pregnancy photography.

Enhancing Your Beauty With Makeup

Tailoring Your Look for Pregnancy Photography

Makeup isn’t about hiding—it’s about honing in on a specific look. Whether it’s a soft, rosy blush or a defined contour, makeup can help give your prenatal portraits a defined vibe.

Highlighting Your Features

Whether you hire an NYC makeup artist for the photo studio or do your makeup yourself, all maternity photographers suggest a dewy makeup look. Some extra highlights and soft foundations will emphasize your radiance.

Hair Styling for Prenatal Portraits

Hair styling is a huge personal touch for a maternity photoshoot. Your hair can say much about you. Whether you want a posh, slicked-back look or big bouncing curls. It also lets a bit of your personality shine through. Trust us, go all out and look your best! These are photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Accessories That Add Personal Touches

Jewelry for Pregnancy Photography

Jewelry is a great way to add some personal touches to your pregnancy photography. Minimalist options photograph perfectly. They add a touch of shimmer without being overly distracting.

Sentimental Items

Grab those ultrasound pictures! This is the best opportunity to incorporate any small items that bring you a sense of joy around your baby. You can bring in the first teddy bear you purchased or some tiny baby shoes.

You can even incorporate family heirlooms or a special knitted blanket. Little items like this can really personalize your maternity photoshoot.

Prenatal Portraits Props

Some of our favorite props are flower crowns, bouquets, plush blankets, and stuffed animals. If you’re planning a spring or summer photoshoot, opt for extra florals that add a personal touch. You can even choose the baby’s birth flower for added symbolism.

Partner and Family Involvement

Nothing personalizes pregnancy photography more than having your partner there with you. After all, your love is what is bringing this new light into your lives. This is also a great opportunity for any siblings to be involved in welcoming the new arrival.

Although this is your maternity photoshoot, grabbing extra photographs in the photo studio with your loved ones can bring the whole experience full circle. You can proudly display these in your NYC home and showcase how much love radiates from the inside.

Conclusion

Talk with your maternity photographer about all the ways you want to add special touches and personalizations. These pregnancy photographs are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an extra special bonding moment with you and your growing baby.

All You Need To Know About Maternity Photography In 2025

Congratulations on your pregnancy! This is such an amazing and memorable time in your life, and what better way to preserve it than through maternity photography! We encourage you to capture these fleeting moments of beauty and femininity.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of maternity photography and see how it has evolved over the years. We’ll discuss the latest trends and share tips on making your New York City photoshoot magical and memorable. Use this as a guide in helping you choose the perfect photographer, and learn about the benefits that only a professional photo studio can offer.

The State Of Maternity Photography in 2025

Like all trends, what was once popular a few years back is no longer trendy, and something new has taken over. When it comes to pregnancy photography in 2025, we are seeing a more casual approach in fashion choices and a lot more lifestyle concepts.

Ethereal themes are another up-and-coming style in pregnancy photoshoots. This includes loose, flowing dresses, beautifully handcrafted flower crowns, and abstract backdrops.

Another popular choice amongst prenatal clients is their preference of studio sessions over outdoor environments. When compared to outdoor settings, photo studios offer a number of benefits. As one of the most celebrated New York City photographers, our space is climate-controlled, offering an escape from the hot-and-humid streets of Manhattan. This allows us to have full control over your appearance and comfort.

Current Maternity Trends

Breathtaking Studio Locations
Don’t live in or around NYC? Many of our clients make it a destination instead! What better way to pamper yourself than a weekend trip to the greatest city in the world. And while you’re here, make it a date night as well. Comedy clubs, Broadway shows, and some of the finest dining will make for a perfect evening on the town.

Our photo studio offers a warm and inviting reception area. Let your partner relax while you get your hair and make-up done in our dedicated beauty station! With a broad assortment of garments, and accessories like hats and jewelry to choose from, we’ll make sure your photos embody your vision and your style.

You can choose casual outfits that match your spouse and children, or find form-fitting attire to show off those stunning curves. As for hair and makeup, you’ll see a lot of simpler looks that maintain natural beauty. This is the perfect time to flaunt the trendy unbuttoned jeans and white bralette to show that perfectly rounded baby bump!

Silhouettes
Silhouettes emphasize the shape of your body. Pregnancy changes you in incredible ways, and this is your chance to show off every soft curve and womanly feature. These photos celebrate the beauty and strength of your pregnant body, capturing a moment you’ll want to remember forever.
Silhouette lighting favors loose, draping fabrics or snug, fitted outfits. Many of these photos are beautifully edited into black and white, but you can go in any direction to match your style and personality.

Choosing The Right New York City Maternity Photographer

Choosing the right professional for the job may seem like a challenging task. However, by asking yourself a few questions and doing some research, you can make an informed decision that isn’t solely based on pricing.

Budget
Determine your budget early on and do your research when it comes to any New York City photographer. Determine the value you get by asking them the following questions:
Do you have a dedicate indoor studio space?
If you only shoot outdoors, how do you deal with wind, heat and humidity?
How do you accommodate make-up and wardrobe changes when shooting outdoors?
How many years of experience do you have?
May I see a sample gallery from a single photo session?

That last question is especially important. While a photographer’s portfolio will features their best work, getting a peek at a sample session will let you get a better sense of what you can expect from your own photo session.

Style
All professional New York City photographers will have a portfolio showcase. This can be a website, or just an Instagram page. Here is where you can gauge their style of photography. A photographer cannot change their style to fit your needs, so be sure that who you choose has the aesthetic you desire for your pregnancy photos.

Studio Location
If you want your pregnancy shoot to occur in a studio setting, we recommend you opt for a photographer who has one. These photographers have the lighting, wind machines, wardrobes, and make-up tables to accommodate your every need. The final product is a polished work of art worth hanging on the wall.

The Benefits of a Studio Location
Studio locations come with some amazing benefits. Not only is the photographer comfortable with their setting, but you will also enjoy an air-conditioned environment, with plenty of places to sit and rest when needed. Many studios will additionally have a team of make-up artists and hair-stylists to ensure no detail goes overlooked.

Some photo studios even have their own beauty team on standby, ready to doll you up and offer the most beautiful pregnancy shots. This allows you to embrace your femininity, hold an award-winning photography session, and ultimately end up with photos you will cherish forever.

The Importance Of Reviews
Everyone values someone’s opinion when it comes to a professional service. It’s the easiest way to see if this photographer is worth the time and money. But what exactly do you look for when scrolling through reviews?

It’s a good idea to read the subject of each review. If the subject focuses on headshot photography, the photographer may not have the skills needed for pregnancy photoshoots. It’s essential to choose a photographer who has experience and a solid track record in the type of photography you seek.

Choose Experience
When searching for a professional prenatal photographer, you’ll want to pay attention to how far back their reviews go. Photographing a pregnant body requires an uncanny attention to details. The artist must have full command of lighting modifiers in order to properly illuminate the parts of their subject that matter most.

Lighting, angles, and poses make all the difference, and recognizing this shows you’re dealing with a skilled photographer. To ensure they have the right experience, take a deep dive into their reviews and see how far back they go. This will help you determine whether the photographer is a seasoned veteran, or a beginner exploring a new niche.

The Importance of a Maternity Portfolio

A tell-tale sign you have found a professional maternity photographer is when they have full-session pregnancy shoots included within their portfolio. Not only can you see if their photography skills are up to par, but you can determine if their style aligns with your aesthetic.

Most professionals will put their best foot forward and show the most stunning photographs to highlight their trade. By looking at individual photo sessions, you can get a better grasp of their consistency, so don’t be afraid to ask!

Making The Day Special and One to Remember

Now that your photos have been taken, and your hair and makeup professionally done, it’s time for a night out! After your maternity photoshoot, take some time to explore the city! Hit up your favorite restaurant, or catch that show you and your partner have been wanting to see. This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the day, and make it one to remember.

Once your baby comes, it may be challenging to find a way to plan those oh-so-important date nights with your spouse. So take this time and treat yourself.

It’s also a wonderful opportunity to embrace these last moments of pregnancy and the final moments of being just a couple, as in a short time, you’ll be welcoming your new baby into the world.

Wrapping Up All You Need to Know About Maternity Photography

Maternity photography in 2025 is all about studio locations, casual to form-fitting clothing, and natural, lightly styled hair and makeup. You can also take on a more everyday feel with hand-crafted flower crowns and long, flowing dresses and skirts.

Be sure to read through their reviews carefully, and look at full-session samples. Find a photographer who can capture the style you are looking for.

If you have any questions about maternity photography, please contact us. We can answer your questions and show you samples of our full maternity sessions to see if they align with your vision.

maternity photoshoot with blissful blues

Maternity Photoshoots are a Celebration of Motherhood, Rebirth, and Life.

Taking the time to reflect and enjoy the beauty of pregnancy is one of the most enjoyable parts of photoshoots. Have fun with the experience, and your happiness will shine. We want you to treasure the best parts of motherhood. From hair and makeup done for you on the day of your session to our studio wardrobe guaranteed to make you look amazing, all you have to do is show up and we’ll take care of the rest. Our NYC portrait photography studio is conveniently located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Our Studio Maternity Photography Showcases Your Natural Beauty.

We offer glam services, so you look and feel your absolute best. We love allowing mamas to relax, feel pampered, and go into their session feeling confident. All you have to do is smile and enjoy the moment. This translates to even more beautiful portraits – not just because you look beautiful, but because you FEEL amazing.

a simply divine studio maternity session

Incorporating Personal Touches for Maternity Photography…

We had the honor of capturing these precious memories for a very special mama-to-be in our Midtown Manhattan studio. Absolutely divine, and mama looks sensational. We sincerely hope that these maternity portraits will be printed BIG for the nursery. The most perfect wall art to remember this special time in your life!!

NYC Luxury Maternity Photography Studio

Glow Portraits is Manhattan’s premier maternity and newborn photographer, specializing in classic images that showcase the beauty of this special time. We are available for sessions at our NYC studio. With years of experience in family portrait photography, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. Pregnancy portraits are best captured around 30-36 weeks, and we only accept a limited number of commissions per month to ensure our high quality of work. We recommend booking an appointment by your second trimester at the latest. From pregnancy to the first weeks of life, we strive to capture the beauty of these precious fleeting moments. Please contact the studio (212.868.1076) to book your own maternity portrait session!

NYC Maternity & Newborn Photography Studio