If you’re here, I’m guessing you’re in that exciting (and maybe slightly overwhelming) place of choosing a family, newborn, or maternity photographer. You might have a few (or more than a few) tabs open, your Instagram saved folder is looking very full, and you’re wondering how in the world you’re supposed to choose just one person to capture such a personal season of life.

It’s not just about pretty photos. (Though yes, you do deserve beautiful images!) It’s about finding someone you feel comfortable with—someone whose work makes you feel something and whose approach matches the way you want to remember this chapter.

Why It’s Important to Find the Right Family or Maternity Photographer

Family and maternity photography isn’t just about getting a few cute pictures to post or print—it’s about preserving a part of your story that’s fleeting, emotional, and deeply personal. Whether you’re in the sacred in-between of pregnancy or documenting the beautiful chaos of life with little ones, these moments deserve to be held with care.

The right photographer won’t just show up with a camera and the same shot list they use at every session. They’ll take the time to understand you—your rhythms, your relationships, what matters most to you in this season. They’ll make space for connection, guide you with intention, and help you feel like your full, unfiltered self. And that connection? It shows in the images every time.

That’s why it’s so worth taking the time to find someone who feels like the right fit—not just stylistically, but emotionally and energetically too. So let’s talk through what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to find the right family or maternity photographer for you.

6 Quick Tips for Choosing the Best Maternity/Family Photographer for You

1. First, trust your gut

Before we get into the logistics, here’s your permission slip to prioritize your instincts. This is an emotional investment as much as a financial one. When you land on a photographer’s site and feel a little flutter in your chest or find yourself tearing up at someone else’s newborn session? That’s a good sign.

2. Think About the Vibe You Want

Do you picture a relaxed in-home session with messy buns and toddler cuddles on the couch? A filmy maternity session at golden hour in your favorite field? A documentary-style morning at home with your baby that captures all the ordinary magic? A relaxed afternoon playing in the back yard with your family? A more traditional studio session (think, baskets, baby wraps and more static posing)?

There’s no one right answer—just the right fit for you. The photographer you choose should specialize in the style and tone you’re drawn to, whether that’s playful, tender, artistic, classic, moody, or light and bright.

3. Look for Someone Who Shares Your Values

Photography—especially maternity and family photography—is personal. You’re inviting someone into a season of your life that’s likely full of change, tenderness, exhaustion, and deep love. You deserve someone who doesn’t just show up with a camera, but who takes the time to understand what this season feels like for you.

Before I ever step into a session, I ask my clients questions like:

• What parts of your daily life are you trying to hold onto right now?
• What routines feel grounding for you?
• Where do you imagine labor starting—or ending?
• What’s something your child does right now that you never want to forget?
• What are some things that inspire you in your day-to-day life (songs, sights, smells, colors etc)?

These aren’t just sweet conversation starters—they shape the entire experience. They help me notice the quiet hand squeeze between you and your partner, the way your toddler pulls at your sleeve when they’re tired, or how you instinctively reach for your belly when no one’s looking.

The family photographer you choose should be someone who sees you, and who actively wants to know your rhythms, your quirks, your priorities. That’s how the photos become more than just beautiful—they become true.

4. Ask the Right Questions Before Booking

When you’re reaching out or chatting with a potential photographer, here are a few helpful questions to ask:

• What’s your approach during sessions?
  (Are they hands-on and guided or more documentary and go-with-the-flow?)
• Do you help with planning—like outfits, timing, or location?
  (This can be huge in reducing your stress.)
• What’s included in your packages, and how are the photos delivered?
  (Albums? Prints? Digitals?)
• What’s your experience working with kids/newborns/pregnant mamas?
  (Experience often equals calm energy, which you’ll definitely appreciate.)
• Can I see a full gallery or two?
  (Instagram is just the highlight reel. You deserve to know what a whole session actually looks like.)

5. Notice How They Make You Feel

Not just in their images—but in their communication.

Do they make you feel calm, heard, supported? Do they respond with warmth and clarity? Do you feel like you’re talking to a real person—not a corporation or a brand?

Comfort and trust are everything. Because when you feel safe to be your full self, that’s when the magic happens in front of the camera. That’s when your toddler’s real laugh shows up. That’s when you let your shoulders drop and fully be in the moment.

6. Potential Family Photographer Red Flags to (Gently) Watch For

While every photographer is different, here are a few things that might be worth a pause:

• Overly posed portfolios without much variety in emotion (unless that is your vision — you do you!)
• No mention of collaboration or client experience
• Lack of full galleries available for viewing
• Poor communication or vague pricing
• A style that looks nice… but doesn’t move you

This isn’t about judgment—it’s about finding a good match. A photographer can be great and still not be right for you. And that’s okay.

TL;DR: The right photographer won’t just take your photo. They’ll help you feel something.

Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth slightlyyyy chaotic family session, this season matters. And the right family photographer will make it feel easy, meaningful, and maybe even a little magical. (Yes, even if your toddler throws a fit mid-session. Promise.)

If you’re here poking around because you’re considering working with me—hi, I’m so glad you’re here. I’d love to learn more about your story and what matters to you most right now. You can explore more of my family and maternity work, or reach out anytime to say hi or ask questions.

You deserve to be documented with heart. Let’s find the person who can do that for you. (And if it’s me? I can’t wait to meet you.)

Looking for a few more maternity, newborn and family photography resources?

The Best Time to Take Maternity Photos (and Why it Matters)
A Busy Mom’s Guide to In-Home Family Photos
How to Print & Display Your Family Photos: Tips, Ideas & Inspiration
The 15 Best Family & Maternity Photo Locations in Vermont