1. What is Maternity Photography?

Maternity photography is a type of portrait that captures the precious memories of pregnancy. It’s a unique and special moment that can only be documented during this time, making the photos incredibly valuable later on.

Originally popularized by overseas celebrities, maternity photography has since become known and embraced in Japan. Celebrities sharing their maternity photos helped spread its appeal. It often becomes the very first family photo or the first picture with a child, which is why it’s loved by many women.

Some people in Japan may feel shy about exposing their belly for photos, but these moments are unique to pregnancy. Many maternity outfits are designed to either cover the belly modestly or to artistically showcase it. Don’t be shy—give it a try!

2. Three Benefits of Maternity Photography

What are the benefits of taking maternity photos? Here are three key advantages:

Benefits of Maternity Photography

• Preserve memories of a unique and fleeting time during pregnancy
• View your baby bump objectively and feel a stronger emotional connection
• Share the experience with your child when they grow older

Preserve memories of a unique and fleeting time

The window to take maternity photos is very short. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the days of anticipating your baby’s arrival. These photos become cherished keepsakes.

Feel more connected to your baby

Seeing your large baby bump in a photo helps you view it objectively and deepens the emotional bond and sense of reality that your child is on the way.

Share the photos with your child in the future

Maternity photos can be shared with your child as they grow. It can be a wonderful way to show them how loved and anticipated they were, especially during school projects or family discussions.

3. How Much Does Maternity Photography Cost?

Maternity photography comes in various plans, and costs vary depending on clothing, number of outfits, digital data, prints, and album options. When choosing a plan, make sure it includes everything you want.

Basic packages offered by studios usually cost around 30,000 yen and include one outfit, data, hair and makeup, and props. More comprehensive packages with multiple outfits, full data sets, and albums can exceed 100,000 yen. There are also budget plans around 10,000 yen for just one data image, though in such cases you’ll need to prepare your own makeup and outfit. Choose your plan based on what you can do yourself and what you’d prefer a professional to handle.

Note that some studios charge extra for bringing your own items. Check in advance whether the studio provides outfits and props that match your desired photo image. Plan the shoot after deciding what kind of photo you want to take.

4. When Should You Take Maternity Photos?

While there are many opportunities to take maternity photos during pregnancy, timing is key. If done too early, your belly may not be prominent enough. The best time is during the mid to late stages of pregnancy—around 7 to 9 months. This is when the bump is clearly visible, making for beautiful photos.

Month 9 is ideal, as it allows for stunning bump shots while avoiding the final days of pregnancy when energy is low. If expecting twins or a second child, earlier months like 5–7 may also be suitable as bumps tend to appear sooner.

5. Top 3 Recommended Locations for Maternity Photography

Location matters when taking maternity photos. Here are three recommended spots:

• At Home
• Photo Studio
• Outdoor (e.g., park or resort)

At Home

You don’t always need a studio. Shooting at home allows for a relaxed, natural look, creating warm and heartfelt memories in your own environment.

Photo Studio

Studios offer the most controlled environment—no need to worry about weather, wind, or lighting. Many also provide creative backdrops and props, with white backgrounds being especially popular.

Outdoor Locations

Beaches, forests, and parks are great for natural, open-air photos. Okinawa is a popular beach destination in Japan. Consider combining the shoot with a pre-baby getaway for lasting memories.

6. What Should You Wear for Maternity Photos?

Choosing the right outfit is key to setting the tone. Here are three main outfit types:

• Casual wear
• Maternity dresses
• Wedding dresses

Casual Wear

Great for home shoots, casual outfits offer a natural feel. Form-fitting dresses that highlight the bump are popular choices.

Maternity Dresses

Often open at the belly and made to showcase rather than just expose it, maternity dresses are comfortable and beautiful.

Wedding Dresses

Some couples skip formal ceremonies and take wedding-style maternity photos instead. Empire waist dresses are especially suitable for pregnancy.

7. Outfit Ideas for Couples

Maternity photos can be your first family portrait. Coordinate outfits to reflect your style as a couple.

• Classic: T-shirts & jeans
• Dress & shirt-pants combos
• Maternity dress with matching partner attire

8. Should You Hire a Professional Photographer?

While it’s possible to take your own maternity photos, hiring a pro ensures high-quality, emotionally resonant results. Specialist photographers understand the unique needs and emotions of maternity shoots.

9. Conclusion

Maternity photography offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture the joy of expecting a child. Don’t miss the opportunity to preserve this beautiful chapter of your life through photographs.

Click here for the official page of photographer Takehiro Komachi.