Why Include Your Family in Your Maternity Session?

Pregnancy changes everything for the people around you, too. Your partner is getting ready to become a parent (or a parent again). Your older kids are about to share your lap. Your pets are about to share, well, everything.

Photos that include them show the real story: this is who we were before baby arrived. Years from now, your little one will love seeing the family that was already waiting for them.

And honestly? Solo shots are gorgeous, but the images that make people tear up usually have a hand on the belly that isn't yours.

Partners: You Don't Have to Be a Model

I'll say this with love: most partners walk in nervous. They're picturing stiff poses and forced smiles. Here's how I handle that.

• I give easy prompts, not poses. Things like "whisper something to her" or "pull her in like you just heard the best news." Real reactions beat perfect posing every time.

• We start with movement. Walking, swaying, laughing. It loosens everyone up fast.

• We keep it short and sweet. Partners shine when they feel comfortable, so I move at a pace that keeps things light.

If your partner says "I'm not a photo person," that's okay. Almost nobody is until we start. Let me do the directing, and you two just focus on each other.

Big Brothers and Sisters: Keep It Playful

Kids and a long, formal photo session don't always mix, and that's fine. For the little ones, the secret is making it feel like play.

• Let them be part of the news. Talking about the baby ahead of time ("we're taking pictures so baby can see us when they're big!") gets them excited.

• Bring a snack and a favorite toy. A well-timed fruit snack has saved more sessions than I can count.

• Plan outfits that are comfy first. If they can't move, they won't smile. Soft fabrics and shoes they can run in make a big difference.

• Expect giggles, not perfection. A toddler kissing your belly, a big sister listening for kicks, a little guy hiding his face in your shoulder: these are the keepers.

I usually photograph the kids early in the session while they're fresh, then give them a little break so you and your partner get your own time in front of the camera.

Furry Family Members Count, Too

Yes, pets can be part of your maternity photos! For many couples, their dog or cat really is their first baby, and including them tells a sweet part of your story.

A few tips if you're thinking about it:

• Bring a helper. Having a friend or family member who can handle the leash and keep your pet calm lets you and your partner stay in the moment.

• Think about the location. Outdoor spots or familiar places, like your own backyard, tend to be easier for animals than a busy space.

• Bring treats. Always. Your pup's best "look at me" face is just a snack away.

Let me know ahead of time that you'd like to include your pet so we can plan the setting together.

Matching Without Being Matchy

Coordinating outfits for a group can feel like a puzzle. My go-to advice:

• Pick a color palette, not a uniform. Two or three shades that work together look polished without feeling staged.

• Mix textures. Knits, flowy fabrics, denim, and linen add depth.

• Let mom's outfit lead. Choose what you feel most beautiful in first, then build everyone else around it.

• Skip big logos and busy patterns so the focus stays on faces and connection.

If you're stuck, send me a photo of what you're considering and I'll happily weigh in.

Timing the Session for Your Whole Crew

When you have kids in the mix, timing matters. Try to pick a time of day when your little ones are usually in a good mood, not right before a nap. Morning sessions tend to work well for toddlers, while later afternoon light is beautiful for outdoor sessions.

Not sure when in your pregnancy to book? I wrote more about that in my guide to when to book your maternity photographer, so check that out if you're still planning.

Let's Plan Your Family Maternity Session

You don't have to figure all of this out on your own. When we chat before your session, we'll talk through who's joining, what feels comfortable for everyone, and what setting suits your family best, whether that's cozy in the studio or out in a favorite spot (a travel fee may apply for locations farther out, and I'm always upfront about it).

If you're ready to include your whole crew in your maternity photos, I'd love to meet you all. Visit  hughesphotovideollc.com  or reach out to me directly to start planning your session. Bring your partner, bring the kids, bring the dog. I'll bring the patience (and the snacks).

Hughes Photo & Video LLC is based in Owatonna, MN and serves families throughout Southern Minnesota. Maternity, newborn, milestone, and family sessions available year-round.