At Amaze Me Photography, we know that maternity is a magical chapter—one filled with anticipation, love, and… let’s be honest, a little bit of chaos when there’s a toddler involved! Including your little one in your maternity session can be an incredibly meaningful experience, but it also comes with its unique challenges.
The good news? With a bit of planning and the right approach, you can have a stress-free, joy-filled maternity session with your toddler—and walk away with heart-melting photos to treasure forever.
Here are our top tips to help you enjoy every moment (yes, even the wiggly ones!).
Why Include Siblings in Your Maternity Photos?
There’s something incredibly special about capturing your little ones as they await the arrival of their newest sibling. Whether it’s your second, third, or fourth baby on the way, including your children in your maternity session beautifully documents the growing bond between siblings and the love that’s already surrounding your expanding family.
At Amaze Me Photography, these moments are often the most emotional and genuine. The kind that make mamas tear up when they see just how much love is already in the frame.
1. Schedule for Your Toddler’s Happy Hour
Toddlers run the show when it comes to timing! We always recommend booking your session for a time when your toddler is well-rested and fed, (usually mid-morning or right after naptime.)
2. Pack Your Toddler Survival Kit
Here’s what to bring along:
-Favorite (non-messy) snacks
-Water or milk
-A toy or lovey
-Wet wipes
-Backup outfit (just in case!)
These small comforts go a long way in keeping your toddler content during the session.
3. Dress Smart, Not Stiff
Choose outfits that feel like you, but also allow freedom to move and play especially for your toddler. At Amaze Me Photography, we offer styling assistance to help you coordinate without the stress.
Soft neutrals, earthy tones, or pastels photograph beautifully in natural light and help create a timeless feel.
4. Embrace the Candid Moments
Some of our favorite toddler shots are the unscripted ones! When they hold your hand, play with your dress, or run circles around you laughing. Don’t worry about perfection. We’ll guide gently and capture the moments that matter.
5. Talk About It Ahead of Time
Let your toddler know what's going to happen & frame it as something fun:
“We’re going to take pictures with the baby in mommy’s belly! You can give the baby a kiss!”
This helps reduce nerves and boosts cooperation.
6. Work With a Toddler-Loving Photographer
Capturing sweet moments with a toddler takes patience, flexibility, and experience. That’s where we come in. At Amaze Me Photography, we specialize in family and maternity photography that celebrates real connections—toddler chaos included!
7. Bring Extra Hands for Help
If you have more than one child joining the session, having an extra set of hands is always helpful. Whether it’s your partner, a grandparent, or a trusted friend it really can make a world of difference. Someone who can help carry bags, wrangle wiggly toddlers, or entertain the kids between shots gives you more space to relax and focus on soaking in this special moment.
8. Choose a Toddler-Friendly Location
We recommend locations that are safe, open, and easy to navigate with little ones. Think grassy fields, wide beaches, or even your backyard. At Amaze Me Photography, we’ll help you select the perfect spot that suits both your vision and your toddler’s curiosity.
Final Thoughts From Amaze Me Photography
Maternity photos with toddlers don’t have to be overwhelming. With a little prep, the right mindset, and a photographer who truly gets it, your session can be filled with laughter, love, and the sweetest memories of this fleeting season.
Ready to capture the magic?
Book Your Session Today
We’d love to help you document your journey, from bump to baby and beyond. Let’s create something beautiful together.
Follow us on Instagram @AmazeMe_Photography for inspiration, behind-the-scenes, and sneak peeks of recent sessions!
