Family Maternity Session: How to Include Your Partner and Older Siblings
A maternity session isn’t just about celebrating your pregnancy—it’s about capturing the love and excitement of your entire family as you prepare to welcome a new little one. Including your partner and older children in your maternity photos makes the experience even more meaningful, creating timeless keepsakes that tell your family’s unique story.
Here’s how to make sure everyone feels included, comfortable, and connected during your session.
1. Choose a Setting That Feels Like YOU
Think about a location that represents your family’s personality and tells your unique story. Whether it’s a cozy at-home session just spending a slow Sunday morning together, a trip to your favourite spot on Vancouver's beaches, or a fun-filled park hang, the right setting will help your partner and kids feel at ease, making for more natural and heartfelt photos.
2. Make It Interactive
Encourage playfulness and connection. Plan a shoot with your photographer around an activity you do together as a family - that could be flying kites, building sandcastles, going for a hike, you name it! While your bump might not be the main character in the shoot, let's have everyone engage by hugging your bump, giving it a kiss, or even feeling for little kicks. These interactions create authentic moments of love and excitement.
3. Let Older Siblings Have Their Own Moment
Older siblings may feel a mix of emotions about a new baby arriving. Give them a special role in the session—whether it’s choosing the activity, talking to the baby bump, or having a solo portrait with you. Making them feel important helps create beautiful, emotional images.
4. Keep the Mood Light and Fun
The best family maternity photos happen when everyone is relaxed and having fun. Instead of stiff posing, focus on movement—walking hand in hand, twirling, or simply snuggling together. We can play music, tell jokes, or let your kids be silly to bring out genuine joy.
5. Coordinate (But Don’t Match) Outfits
A colour palette that represents who you are as a family will work best for your photos and to tell your story. Steer clear of busy patterns and text on clothing. Avoid overly matching outfits, and instead, choose pieces that complement each other while letting each family member’s personality shine. And don't be afraid to add pops of colour! A fun toque, a cute vest or colourful sneakers will showcase your personalities even more.
6. Embrace the Imperfection
Kids will be kids! If your toddler is wiggly or your partner isn’t sure what to do, that’s okay. The goal is to capture the real, raw, and loving moments. Some of the most cherished photos are the unplanned, candid ones that show your family’s true essence.
Final Thoughts
Including your partner and older children in your maternity session makes the experience so much more than just a photoshoot—it’s a celebration of your growing family. With the right mindset, a little planning, and a relaxed approach, you’ll walk away with stunning images that tell the story of this special chapter in your lives.
Looking to book a maternity session that feels natural, stress-free, and filled with love? Let’s chat! 💛
