Maternity

How to Plan Your Maternity Photography Session

July 27, 2025

Maternity photography session at Osage Park featuring mom in light neutral clothing

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Northwest Arkansas Maternity Photographer

If you’re expecting a little one and wondering when or how to plan your maternity photography session, you’re not alone. As a maternity photographer in Northwest Arkansas, I love walking my clients through the process. Whether you’re based in Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers, or the surrounding areas, this guide will help you feel prepared, excited, and most of all, seen.

Joyful couple laughing together during maternity photography session at Osage Park in Bentonville
This maternity photography session took place at Osage Park in Bentonville, one of my favorite spots in Northwest Arkansas for its beautiful walking trails, boardwalks, and natural scenery. It’s a perfect setting for peaceful, golden hour photos.

When to Book Your Maternity Photography Session

The sweet spot for maternity photos is typically between 28 and 36 weeks. Your bump is beautifully round, but you’re still (hopefully) comfortable enough to move around and enjoy the session. Babies have a mind of their own, so I always recommend reaching out to schedule no later than 24 weeks. That gives us time to plan something really special, something that truly reflects you.

Booking and Planning: Creating a Session That Feels Like You

Once your session is on the calendar, I’ll send a questionnaire to help me get to know you and understand your style, preferences, and overall vision. Do you want a peaceful nature setting? A cozy in-home session? A glam look in a more modern space? Props, personal details, or sentimental heirlooms? The more you share, the more we can personalize your maternity photography session.

One of my favorite parts of this process is collaborating on the vibe. I’ve had clients bring letter boards, ultrasound images, baby shoes, and more. With enough lead time, we can incorporate so many sweet touches.

Pregnant woman smiling while her partner holds her belly in Bentonville, Arkansas

Location and Wardrobe: The Magic Combo

Next, we’ll choose a location, something that fits your style and story. Maybe you’re drawn to open fields, urban architecture, walking trails, or even your own home.

From there, we’ll style the session around that setting. I provide monthly style guides to all my maternity clients, and if you’ve booked a Signature Session or you’re one of my Baby Plan members, you’ll also have the option of a custom wardrobe board tailored to you and your location. Certain outfits photograph better in certain settings (think flowing dresses in a wide field or soft knits in a cozy indoor space), and I’m always here to help guide those choices.

Day-of Tips: Relax and Enjoy

By the time your maternity photography session arrives, all the big decisions will be made. You just get to show up and soak it in.

Many of my clients love booking professional hair and makeup, and I have a trusted artist I’m happy to recommend. Others opt to visit their favorite salon or handle their own styling. Either way, I do recommend a fresh manicure. Your hands on your belly will be a focal point in many of the images.

What’s Next?

After your session, you can expect a beautiful, natural gallery that highlights not just your bump, but your strength, beauty, and joy in this season of motherhood. These images will become heirlooms.

If you’re the type of mama that loves inspiration and planning ahead, you might also want to check out:


Ready to Plan Your Maternity Photography Session in Northwest Arkansas?

I would love to help you create something meaningful. Whether you’re in Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers, or the surrounding areas, let’s dream it up together. Reach out here to get started.

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nwa newborn photographer

ABOUT Leslie

Based in Bentonville, I’m a Northwest Arkansas newborn photographer specializing in lifestyle sessions that are baby-led, calm, and deeply personal. 

Since 2017, I’ve had the honor of photographing growing families across NWA—capturing the quiet in-between moments that tell the real story of early motherhood. With a thoughtful eye and years of experience, I create space for presence, connection, and sacred simplicity—so your images don’t just look timeless, they feel it.

©Leslie Nice Photography

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