Seattle Maternity Photography Since 1999
Maternity photography is my first love. It’s how I launched my business back in 1999, and after all these years, it still inspires me.
At the beginning of my career, I loved photographing pregnant women because I believed pregnant women are beautiful (and I still do.) But the deeper importance of this work didn’t fully land until I became a mother myself.
A pregnant woman is in a state of metamorphosis. Yes, she’s creating a child, but she’s also becoming a mother. And while we often think of mothers as sweet, nurturing, and gentle… mothers are also fierce, wildly protective, and strong as hell.
Pregnancy is not for the faint of heart. It can be uncomfortable and scary, miraculous and beautiful—sometimes all in the same day. That entire experience deserves to be honored, remembered, and photographed with care, which is what I love to do.
A Simple Approach to Maternity Portraits
My work is classic and minimal by design. No complicated props. No trendy setups. Just beautiful light, thoughtful composition, and portraits that keep the focus where it belongs: on you, your strength, and this season of change.
My North Seattle studio is designed to make the experience easy. Whether you’re feeling excited, emotional, nervous, or all of the above, you’ll be guided gently through the process and cared for the whole way through.
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
Maternity sessions are best scheduled between 28 and 36 weeks.
By 28 weeks, most women have a visible bump that photographs beautifully, and they’re often still comfortable enough to move around and enjoy the session. Some women prefer to wait until they’re showing more, and that can be wonderful too, but I recommend scheduling before week 36.
Why?
Babies are considered full term at 37 weeks, and once you’re there, it’s not uncommon for labor to begin earlier than expected. I’ve had clients go into labor early (and even during a session). And I always want you to have these portraits done in time, without stress.
If you’re carrying multiples, I recommend coming in between 24 and 32 weeks, depending on comfort. Multiples often arrive early, and we want to make sure you don’t miss this window.
How to Prepare for Your Maternity Photos
A few small steps before your session make a big difference in your final images.
Avoid clothing that leaves marks
Pregnancy often comes with extra fluid retention, which means tight clothing can leave indentations that take a long time to fade—especially:
elastic waistbands
socks
tight bras
hair ties on the wrist
I recommend wearing a light, loose-fitting dress and sandals the day of your session. If you feel comfortable, you can skip underwear and a bra beforehand so your skin looks as smooth as possible in photos.
Hydrate and take it slow
Pregnancy is demanding. Plan to arrive a little early, drink water, and give yourself time to settle in. I keep water on hand in the studio, and we’ll move at a pace that feels good.
Nude, Draped, or Clothed: What to Wear for Maternity Photos
Most of my maternity clients choose draped portraits, modest nude portraits, or a mix of both, because these tent to create the most timeless images and allows the beauty of the body to be seen clearly.
Here’s why:
Skin reflects light in a way that shows dimension, highlights and shadows that help define the shape of your belly and curves. Clothing (especially dark or loose fabric) can absorb light and hide that shape.
Draped maternity portraits
I provide draping in the studio.
Nude maternity portraits
Nude portraits are always tasteful, simple, and focused on form. If you love the look and feel comfortable, we can absolutely include them.
Clothed maternity portraits
Some clients prefer to be fully clothed for their entire session, and that is completely okay. Your comfort is always the priority.
If you’d like to bring outfits, I recommend:
Tighter is better (fitted dresses, fitted tanks, form-fitting underwear sets)
Avoid loose, baggy maternity clothing that hides the bump
Simple, solid colors photograph beautifully
If you’re unsure what to wear, don’t worry, I’m here to help. Feel free to send me an email at sandra@sandracoan.com with any questions you may have.
Safety and Comfort Come First
I’m not a medical professional, but I’ve worked with pregnant women long enough to know anything can happen at your maternity session.
I’ve had women go into labor early. I’ve had women experience discomfort, dizziness, and sudden changes that require us to stop immediately. Your health and your baby’s health always come first.
During your session:
we take breaks whenever needed
we keep water on hand
we move slowly and safely
you’re encouraged to speak up immediately if anything feels “off”
Including Your Partner and Older Children
I love including partners in maternity portraits. It’s such a meaningful way to document the beginning of a new chapter, not just for you, but for your relationship.
If you have older children, this session can also be a beautiful way to mark the transition into becoming a bigger family. With little ones, we keep things simple and connection-focused so it feels natural (and so your belly is still visible in the final portraits).
The Studio Experience
My North Seattle studio is located in the Greenwood neighborhood, easily accessible to Ballard, Phinney Ridge, Greenwood, Queen Anne, Downtown, and many other Seattle area neighborhoods.
Sessions are relaxed, guided, and efficient. You don’t need to “know what to do.” You don’t need to practice posing. You just need to show up, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Book Your Seattle Maternity Session
If you’re ready to plan your maternity portraits, I’d love to photograph this chapter for you.
To book your maternity session, click here.
Or, if you have questions about timing, wardrobe, or comfort, reach out anytime—I’m happy to help.