Creative Maternity Poses for Memorable Maternity Photography in St. Johns, FL

Pregnancy is such a beautiful season. Your body is doing something truly incredible—growing another human—and that alone deserves to be celebrated and captured. 🤍As a local maternity photographer, freezing this chapter of your life in time is something I hold so close to my heart and am so thankful to be able to call my "job". When I think about maternity photos, I picture warmth, connection, quiet anticipation, and so much love (all the love).

If you’re expecting and wondering how to preserve these fleeting moments, I want to share some thoughts and ideas to help make your maternity session in St. Johns, FL (or anywhere really) feel meaningful, relaxed, and unforgettable ✨

Why Maternity Photography Is So Special

Pregnancy is a journey full of emotion—excitement, joy, wonder, and yes, sometimes a little nervousness too. Maternity photography isn’t just about taking pretty pictures; it’s about honoring this season of your life and everything it represents.

Years from now, when you look back at these images, you’ll see more than just a baby bump. You’ll see your glow, strength, and the love surrounding you and your sweet babe during this special time. 💕

One of the things I love most about maternity photography in St. Johns, FL is the natural beauty all around us. From peaceful beaches to lush parks, the scenery adds a timeless, calming feel that allows you to relax and truly be present. And that connection—to all of it and of course, to your baby—shines so beautifully in your images 🌿🌊

Creative Maternity Poses to Try

One of my favorite parts of a maternity session is helping you feel confident and natural while highlighting your bump and your unique personality. I know your body has changed, so the right poses can help showcase the beauty of this time, while flattering you and showcasing your true beauty too. These are some of my go-to poses that I absolutely love—and my mamas do too 🤍

✨ The Classic Cradle Gently resting your hands below your belly creates a natural frame for your bump. Simple, emotional, and incredibly powerful.

✨ Side Profile Silhouette Standing sideways with soft light to show the curve of your belly—this pose is elegant, timeless, and always a favorite.

✨ Seated Serenity Sitting on a blanket with one hand on your belly feels relaxed and intimate, perfect for calm, connected moments.

✨ Walking with Purpose Slowly walking while looking down at your belly or smiling softly adds movement and life to your photos.

✨ Partner Embrace A gentle hug, a forehead kiss, or hands wrapped around your bump tells such a beautiful story of togetherness. Including your partner, other children, and even pets is always encouraged 🐾👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

These poses can be mixed and matched based on what feels right for you. There’s no pressure to “perform”—just breathe, connect, and let the moment unfold naturally ✨moment. I always tell my clients they don't have to "stand still and pose", once I direct them, they change where their looking, tuck hair behind their ears, gently rub their belly, whatever feels natural.

The Classic Cradle on a St Johns County Beach

Choosing the Perfect Location for Maternity Photography in St. Johns, FL

St. Johns offers so many stunning backdrops for maternity photos. Here are a few favorites I often recommend:

🌅 Beaches at Sunrise or Sunset That soft golden light paired with gentle waves creates the most dreamy atmosphere. From driftwood to rocky beaches we have it all here. Often some beaches are better for sunrise or sunset so always ask your photographer their opinion.

🏡 Historic District in downtown St Augustine Charming streets and timeless architecture bring warmth and character to your images.

🌸 Local Parks and Gardens Lush greenery and blooming flowers add freshness and life.

🤍 Your Own Home Sometimes the most meaningful place is home. Capturing this season where you feel most comfortable allows for deeply personal, authentic images. It’s also a beautiful way to document nursery details before your babe arrives—or capture your other children playing as you imagine them with their newest sibling 🧸

When choosing a location, think about where you feel calm and happy. Your comfort (or discomfort) truly shows in your photos.

Tips for a Relaxed & Enjoyable Maternity Session

If being in front of the camera feels a little intimidating—you’re not alone. I promise, you don’t need to know how to pose or “what to do.” I’ll guide you every step of the way 🤍

✨ Wear What Feels Good Flowy dresses, soft fabrics, and colors you love go a long way in helping you feel confident and beautiful.

✨ Bring Meaningful Items Baby shoes, ultrasound photos, or a favorite blanket can add such a personal touch.

✨ Communicate Openly Share your ideas, worries, or preferences. A good photographer listens and supports you.

✨ Take Breaks We never rush. Pausing to breathe and reset helps you look natural and radiant. If it's warm, bring water and if a pose is uncomfortable, DON'T DO IT. Listen to your body.

✨ Focus on Your Baby I always tell my clients to focus more on each other and their sweet babe than on me. Those genuine moments are where the magic happens ✨

Laugh, cry, soak it all in—this session is about you and all the love you already feel for this little life you haven't met yet.

Sunrise Beach Maternity Session in St. Johns

Finding the Right Photographer for You

Choosing the right photographer makes all the difference. When searching, here are a few things to consider:

📸 Experience with Maternity Photography An experienced maternity photographer knows how to pose you beautifully and flatter your bump. While it’s tempting to save money with phone photos (we’ve all been there!), the look, feel, and emotion of professional images truly can’t be replicated.

🤍 Style & Personality Look through portfolios and make sure their style matches your vision—and that you feel comfortable with them. Asking a photographer to edit in a style different then what they show often ends with unhappy clients. A "moody" photographer won't be able to fully capture "light and airy" photos as a photographer who specializes in that.

📍 Local Knowledge A photographer familiar with St. Johns, Jacksonville and St Augustine knows the best light, locations, and timing.

⭐ Reviews & Recommendations Hearing from other moms can give you peace of mind.

If you’re unsure where to start, local moms’ groups are a great place to share your vision and budget and see which talented professionals specialize in this beautiful art.

Embracing the Journey Through Your Photos

Maternity photography is about so much more than a photo session—it’s about honoring your journey into motherhood 🤍Each image tells a story of hope, love, strength, and new beginnings.

Whether you choose the beach, a quiet park, or the comfort of your home, the most important thing is that your photos feel like you. Let your personality shine, get creative, and trust that this season—just as it is—is beautiful.

These images will become treasured keepsakes, reminding you of the miracle your body created and the love that surrounded you before your baby ever arrived ✨

Thank you for being here and allowing me to share my heart for maternity photography in St Johns FL. I hope you feel inspired and excited to capture your own beautiful moments soon 🤍

✨ Ready to book your maternity photos? Click HERE to fill out my contact form and receive my Maternity Guide, complete with session options, what’s included, and all the details you need to plan your perfect session.