Owatonna Minnesota Maternity Photographer

Adding Personality to Your Maternity Session: Props, Pets, and Personal Touches

Maternity photos are about so much more than showing off a beautiful baby bump—they’re about telling your unique story as you prepare to welcome your little one. Every mama, every family, and every pregnancy is different, which is why I always encourage my clients to add their own personal touches to their session.

Here are some of my favorite ways to bring extra personality, meaning, and fun into your maternity photos:

A couple in black attire pose for a maternity photo against a gray background.

1. Props That Tell Your Story

Props can be a simple but powerful way to make your session feel personal. They don’t have to be big or complicated—just meaningful to you and your growing family.

  • Baby Shoes or Onesies – The perfect little preview of what’s to come.
  • Ultrasound Photos – A sweet way to highlight the miracle growing inside.
  • Special Keepsakes – A blanket knit by grandma, your favorite childhood toy, or a book you can’t wait to read to your baby.
  • Seasonal Touches – Pumpkins in the fall, wildflowers in the summer, or even twinkle lights during winter sessions.

Small details can make your photos feel truly one-of-a-kind.


2. Including Your Pets

For many families, pets are the first “babies” in the house—and they deserve to be part of this milestone too! Whether it’s your playful pup or your snuggly cat, having them join in can make your photos even more special.

Pets add:

  • Playfulness and laughter
  • Genuine, candid moments
  • A true reflection of your family as it is right now

(Pro tip: bring a friend along to help with your pet when they’re not in the photos so you can focus on the rest of your session stress-free!)


3. Bringing Your Family Along

Adding your partner, kids, or both can turn a maternity session into a full family experience. Partners bring connection and intimacy, while siblings add joy, excitement, and energy. It’s also a wonderful way to help little ones feel included as they prepare to welcome their new sibling.


4. Your Own Style & Personality

Props and pets are fun, but sometimes the most personal touch is simply showing up as yourself. Wear clothing that feels true to your personality—whether that’s a flowing gown from my client closet (yes, I have a huge wardrobe of stunning maternity gowns available for you!) or a casual look that feels natural and authentic.

The goal is for you to feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself during your session.


5. Location Choices

Where we take your photos is another way to add personality. Whether it’s my cozy Owatonna studio, a scenic park where you love to walk, or your own backyard, the location can help tell your story.


Final Thoughts

Your maternity photos should feel like you. From tiny baby shoes to wagging tails and family hugs, the most meaningful images are the ones that reflect your real life and real love.


✨ Ready to create a maternity session that’s uniquely yours? Let’s plan something special together!

A couple walks hand in hand through a golden field at sunset while wearing casual attire and western boots.
Silhouetted figure in a black dress stands in a golden field during sunset creating a warm, ethereal maternity portrait.
A dreamy fashion portrait series in soft coral lighting features roses, tulle fabric, and delicate white butterfly decorations.
A romantic silhouette of a couple embracing in a field at sunset captured in a black and white photo sequence.
A romantic moment unfolds on a wooden bridge walkway during a sunset photo session.
A figure wearing a white lace dress and hat stands in a golden field at sunset creating a dreamy silhouette.
Pregnant woman in white dress poses on wooden chair in moody floral studio setting during maternity photoshoot.
Couple poses together on a blanket in a golden field during sunset for romantic photos.
A figure in a flowing red dress stands dramatically in a golden field at sunset creating a moody silhouette.
Romantic maternity shoot series features couple in plaid and pink tulle dress embracing against neutral backdrop.
A flowing peach-colored tulle dress adorns a figure posing gracefully by a fallen tree near a tranquil pond.
A couple embraces in a golden field during sunset, with the woman wearing a flowing burnt orange dress.
Couple sitting together outdoors by a lake in casual attire during golden hour.
A series of feminine artistic portraits in neutral studio lighting with a flowing salmon pink dress.
Three linked photos show silhouettes of a couple dancing and twirling together on dried grass near a lake at sunset.