Before Three Becomes Four: A Maternity Photoshoot with a Toddler

A maternity photoshoot with a toddler can involve plenty of movement, a few games and lots of cuddles. There’s no need for your little one to sit still the whole time.

For Julia’s session, we combined time in the park with photographs by the water, capturing her growing bump and family life before three becomes four. Sunshine through the trees, playing on the grass, little hands reaching for her belly. So much to photograph in this little chapter.

One of my favourites is of her child resting their cheek against her bump. A simple moment that says so much about the family they are right now.

Can I bring my toddler to a maternity photoshoot?

Absolutely. Your older children are very much part of the story, and I love including them in maternity sessions.

There’s room for exploring, running around, being picked up and needing a cuddle. We can photograph everyone together, each parent with your little one, and the small interactions that happen along the way.

With Julia’s family, those moments included playing with Dad on the grass and wrapping little arms around Mum. They give the gallery so much personality.

You can see more of my approach to family photography here.

What if my child won’t sit still?

They don’t need to. My approach to family and maternity photography is natural and child-led, with gentle direction when you need it.

We can walk, play, take a break or have a cuddle. I’ll work with your child’s energy rather than expect them to stay in one spot. You don’t have to spend the session asking them to smile at me.

The photographs of Julia and her little one playing on the sand are a lovely example of how movement and a bit of silliness belong in a maternity gallery too.

Will there be time for photographs of me on my own?

Yes, we’ll make space for those too. While your partner spends a little time with your child, we can capture a few relaxed portraits of you and your bump.

I love Julia’s portrait in the warm light, with her hands resting on her belly. It gives the gallery a quieter moment between all the playing and cuddling.

Then there are the details: little feet against your jeans, your child sitting above your bump, the way your hands hold them close.

My maternity photography sessions include time for relaxed portraits of you as well as photographs with your family.

What should we wear for a family maternity session?

Start with something comfortable that feels like you and allows you to move easily. Soft colours, simple layers and a little texture photograph beautifully. Your outfits can work together without everyone wearing the same thing.

Julia’s blue shirt, white top and jeans are a lovely example of a relaxed maternity outfit. The open shirt makes it easy to show her bump, and the clothes feel just as at home on the grass as by the water.

For little ones, choose something they can comfortably run, sit and play in. I’m always happy to help you decide what to wear before your session.

Planning your own family maternity session in Sydney

We finished Julia’s session by the water, with close cuddles and everyone together in the shallows. It’s a beautiful way to bring this collection to a close: a growing bump, a much-loved little one and the whole family gathered around.

I photograph maternity and family sessions across Sydney and the Northern Beaches. If you’d love to capture this stage with your own family, you can explore my maternity photography, find the packages on my pricing page or get in touch to start planning.