The decisions that matter before a maternity session are quite small: somewhere you feel at ease, clothes you can move in and enough space in the day to enjoy it. I’m Gabriela, the photographer behind Duffymog Studios. This guide explains how I would work through those choices with you.

If you are comparing photographers or ready to book, the Dublin maternity photography page has the session options, prices and enquiry form. Here, we will concentrate on getting ready.

Choose the setting before the outfit

For an outdoor session, think about the walk as well as the photographs. A place near home with somewhere to pause may suit you better than a dramatic location that takes a long journey to reach. Tell me if you would prefer less walking or want to include a toddler.

For an at-home session, start with the room where you already feel comfortable. Window light, a favourite chair or the nursery you are preparing can give the photographs a connection to this time in your life. You do not need a large house or a room styled for photographs.

At Farmleigh, the garden paths and parkland gave this couple several backgrounds within one session. Their full maternity story shows the route and photographs, with notes on checking access and permissions for the location.

Expectant couple in autumn parkland at Farmleigh, with a copper-coloured beech tree behind them

What should you wear for maternity photographs?

Choose something you like on yourself, with room to sit and move comfortably. A dress, a skirt and top, or a jumper and trousers can all work. If you want to show the outline of your bump, try the outfit on and look at it from the side before the session.

Plain colours make it easier to keep attention on faces and hands. They are an option, not a dress code. If a patterned dress feels more like you, we can work with it.

Expectant mother in an oatmeal cardigan with her partner beneath autumn trees at Farmleigh
Their own clothes, in a setting that suited them

For outdoors, bring a layer for the weather and footwear you can comfortably walk in. An outfit change is optional; with a 45-minute session, it is worth deciding whether changing clothes is how you want to spend that time.

Planning the date and time

We often discuss a date around 28–34 weeks, then adapt it to your comfort and circumstances. Your due-date window is enough to start the conversation. Tell me if a home session or a quieter pace would suit you better.

For an outdoor session, we consider the available light alongside travel, opening hours and your family’s routine. Golden hour can be lovely, but it is not a reason to choose a time that is difficult for you. At home, the direction of your windows helps us choose a useful time of day.

Include your partner and older children

Partners and older children are welcome in the Bump Session. We can photograph you on your own, the two of you together and your family before it changes again.

Let children take breaks. Bring whatever normally helps them on a short outing, and tell me about their routine when we plan. Nobody needs to practise smiling or keep looking at the camera.

A small packing list

  • Your chosen clothes, plus a warm layer for outdoors.
  • Comfortable walking shoes if we are leaving home.
  • Water and anything you normally need during an outing.
  • A scan photograph or other personal item, if you would like it included.
  • Everyday supplies for any children joining you.

Expectant couple holding an ultrasound scan photograph at Farmleigh

What if the plan needs to change?

Let me know if you are unwell, the weather is unsuitable or something else gets in the way. We will work together to rearrange. Moving a session indoors can also be an option if it suits you.

For photographs after your baby arrives, the newborn preparation guide explains the practical side of a session at home. The Bump to Baby package includes both sessions with the same photographer.

See maternity session details or send an enquiry with your due-date window and the kind of setting you have in mind.