10 Tips to Prepare for Your Maternity Photoshoot in Lynchburg, VA

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both a mom and a Lynchburg maternity photographer, it’s this: pregnancy is a fleeting season. No matter how you’re feeling, you’ll never regret having beautiful photos that document any season of your family’s story, but this one is especially special. Whether you’re dreaming of outdoor maternity photos in Lynchburg or a cozy, in-home lifestyle session, I want to help you prepare so your experience feels effortless and your photos become keepsakes you’ll treasure forever.

Here are my top 10 tips to prepare for your maternity photoshoot in Lynchburg, VA and the surrounding Central Virginia area.

Schedule Your Maternity Photo Session at the Right Time

The best time to schedule your maternity session is typically between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy. By then, your bump is beautifully round and visible, but you’ll still feel comfortable enough to move around and enjoy your session.

Special Timing Considerations

Expecting twins or multiples? Schedule earlier, around 24–28 weeks, since your bump will show sooner.
High-risk pregnancies: Talk with your doctor and consider keeping your session date flexible.
Every pregnancy is unique: Some women “pop” earlier, others later. The best time is whenever you feel ready and excited. I have photographed women days before they deliver, and I had my own maternity pictures taken at 24 weeks because I wanted to avoid the inflammation I typically get in my third trimester.

The key to choosing the perfect time is finding that sweet spot when you still feel comfortable and energized, and your belly is beautifully showing—this is when your pregnancy portraits will truly shine.

Choose the Perfect Location in Lynchburg, VA

One of the best parts of living in Central Virginia is the variety of beautiful backdrops available for maternity photos. From mountain views to charming downtown streets, there’s a location that can fit every style.

I often recommend booking outdoor maternity pictures about 1–2 hours before sunset when the golden light makes everything feel magical. But don’t overlook lifestyle maternity photos at home—these sessions are timeless, cozy, and weatherproof.

Favorite Locations for Maternity Photos in and Around Lynchburg

The Liz Cook Photography Studio — A bright, timeless studio space designed for comfort and beauty. With wardrobe options and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for elegant maternity portraits that feel polished yet personal.
The Field — Wide open skies, tall grass, and golden light create a dreamy natural backdrop. This setting highlights the beauty of your pregnancy with simple, romantic maternity photos that glow at sunset.
Peaks of Otter — Ideal for mountain lovers, this location offers sweeping views, fresh air, and breathtaking natural scenery. It’s a wonderful choice for maternity portraits that feel adventurous and full of wonder.
Riverside Park & Blackwater Creek Trail — Surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful trails, and soft natural light, this spot is perfect for outdoor maternity pictures with a serene and relaxed vibe.
Downtown Lynchburg — From charming architecture to cobblestone streets and colorful walls, the city provides a modern, vibrant backdrop. These maternity portraits are perfect if you love a little urban flair mixed with timeless beauty.
Your home or nursery — Cozy, meaningful, and deeply personal, lifestyle maternity photos at home capture your pregnancy in the spaces where your family’s story truly unfolds.

Many expecting moms even combine both—an outdoor maternity session plus a lifestyle indoor session—for a beautiful variety. When you book your maternity session with Liz Cook Photography, we offer a split location session where we start in the studio and finish at the field at no additional cost.

Dress Comfortably (This Is Non-Negotiable!)

Comfort is the secret to confidence. If you’re uncomfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show in your body language and expressions. When you feel good, you’ll glow in every photo.

Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or restrictive. And for outdoor sessions, bring comfortable shoes for walking between locations (you can always change into dressy shoes for the photos - or my favorite - stay barefoot).

What to Wear for Maternity Photos

The focus of your session is your beautiful baby bump and the love surrounding it. Choose outfits that flatter your figure and highlight this season.

Flattering Options for Maternity Portraits

Fitted dresses that hug your belly
Maxi dresses with an empire waist
Wrap dresses that define your shape
Flowy skirts for movement and drama

Color Recommendations

Soft neutrals (cream, beige, blush) for timeless maternity pictures
Pastels for a romantic feel
Jewel tones (emerald, navy, burgundy) for bold portraits
Classic black for sleek, elegant pregnancy portraits

We encourage you to choose and bring 2-3 outfit options that include both a more formal look and a relaxed, casual one for variety. We will bring our pop-up changing room to give you a private space to change in between looks.

Treat Yourself to Hair and Makeup

If your budget allows, professional hair and makeup is such a gift during your session. Not only will you feel pampered, but professional styling photographs beautifully and holds up through Virginia’s humidity.

If you’re doing your own hair and makeup, keep it slightly more defined than your everyday look. A touch of glow on the cheeks and well-defined eyes can make all the difference in your maternity pictures.

I always say “turn up the volume” on make-up, affection, and expression. They each photograph so well when a little drama is added!

Coordinate Outfits with Your Family

If your partner or children will be in the session, plan outfits that coordinate rather than match. Think complementary tones and simple, classic clothing.

Don’t stress about this. We are here to help you every step of the way. Below are a few suggestions but each client also receives a detailed Preparation Guide to help you plan every detail of your session.

Family Outfit Tips

Partners look great in neutral shirts or soft blues, grays, and tans.
Everyone should avoid bold logos or cartoon characters.
Choose outfits that feel cohesive without being identical.

This keeps the focus where it belongs—on your growing family.

Prepare Your Skin and Body

In the week leading up to your session, give yourself a little extra TLC:

Stay hydrated (it gives your skin a natural glow).
Moisturize daily.
Get plenty of rest.
Consider a manicure (your hands will be featured a lot on your belly).
Have your hair color touched-up and any hair cuts done at least a week before your session, just in case you need last minute adjustments.

Avoid trying new facials or tanning treatments right before your shoot in case of unexpected reactions. Stick to your trusted routine.

Bring a Small Essentials Bag

Pack a few items to make your maternity photoshoot smooth and stress-free:

Cold water and light snacks
Comfortable shoes for walking
Touch-up makeup or powder
Hair ties or clips
Props (ultrasound image, baby shoes, sentimental items)

Being prepared means you can fully enjoy the experience without worry.

Communicate with Your Photographer

Every pregnancy is different, and your session should be too. As your Lynchburg maternity photographer, I always encourage open communication. Let me know:

Any specific poses or shots you’d love to capture
If there are angles you’d prefer to minimize
Concerns about weather, comfort, or family participation
Any questions that come up

We’ll work together to create pregnancy portraits you’ll absolutely love.

Embrace This Season Fully

Pregnancy may feel long some days, but in reality it’s so brief! These portraits aren’t just about looking beautiful (though you absolutely will!)—they’re about preserving a chapter of your family’s story.

When your child is older, they’ll see these photos and know how deeply loved and anticipated they were before they even arrived. Your maternity pictures in Lynchburg VA will become part of your family’s legacy.

Why You’ll Never Regret Maternity Photos

Speaking from my own experience, I can promise you this: your future self will thank you for making the investment. Whether we capture glowing sunset maternity photos at the field or soft lifestyle portraits in your nursery, these images will hold priceless memories for years to come.

Ready to Book Your Maternity Photoshoot in Lynchburg, VA?

I only take 2–3 maternity sessions each month so I can give every family the attention they deserve. If you’re expecting, don’t wait until the last minute—contact me today to reserve your session.

Check Availability

Are you expecting and looking for a caring maternity or newborn photographer? I would love to work with you at Liz Cook Photography to create portraits you will cherish for a lifetime. Contact us and we will share with you our full pricing guide. You will also receive a link to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation here in the studio to answer any questions and help you feel comfortable capturing this beautiful new season of life.