There is something incredibly special about documenting more than just one moment in someone’s life. I photographed Elly and Kade’s gender reveal on the property where they are about to build their first home, and now I have had the honor of capturing their studio maternity photos at The Lumen Room in Houston. Watching their excitement grow from one season to the next has been such a gift! You can read about Elly and Kade’s gender reveal here!
One thing I love about studio maternity photos is that they allow you to just breathe and be in the moment! There’s no weather to navigate, no distractions pulling you away (except their adorable dogs, which were definitely distracting in the best way). It’s just the two of you, stepping into the reality that you are about to become parents!
Elly and Kade are going to be the most thoughtful, intentional parents. You can see it in the way they look at each other and in the quiet excitement they carry when they talk about meeting their baby.
Why Studio Maternity Photos Work So Well
There is a reason so many couples are drawn to studio maternity photos, especially at a space like The Lumen Room in Houston. The natural light is clean and steady, the walls are neutral, and the environment allows your outfits and connection to stand out without competing with busy backgrounds.
Studio maternity photos give you flexibility. You can move between looks, bring meaningful props, and create a relaxed rhythm to your session. It feels intimate without feeling staged.
As an Houston & Austin photographer who frequently travels for sessions, I love how studio spaces simplify everything while still feeling elevated!
What to Wear for Studio Maternity Photos
One of the things I loved about Elly’s session was how she styled it. She started with a soft, flowing dress that highlighted her bump beautifully and felt timeless in the studio setting. Dresses are my favorite for maternity sessions because they add movement and shape without requiring much adjustment (and they’re super comfy!)
Then she switched into jeans and a hat for a more casual look, which completely shifted the tone of the session in the best way. This is something I always encourage; outfit changes allow your studio maternity photos to feel layered and personal. You get both the elevated look and something that feels like everyday life.
If you’re planning your own studio maternity photos, here are a few simple outfit ideas:
- A fitted neutral dress that highlights your silhouette
- A flowy dress for movement
- Jeans and a simple top for a relaxed feel
- Soft textures like knits or linen
Keeping colors neutral works especially well in a bright studio environment, or just choose one pop of color!
Including Dogs in Your Maternity Session
Elly and Kade brought their dogs, which made the session feel even more personal. Studio maternity photos don’t have to be overly styled or minimal. They can include the parts of your life that already matter! Dogs bring energy and warmth into the space. They also make the session feel like an extension of home, even when you’re in a studio setting.
The key is giving them a few moments in the spotlight and then allowing space for just the two of you as well. Elly and Kade brought them in at the end of the session, and it was really nice because we got to capture all the photos of just the two of them, and then at the end we got to have some fun with their cute puppies!
Why I love Documenting All The Seasons of Life
One of my favorite parts of being a documentary-style photographer is walking with couples through multiple seasons. From their gender reveal on their future home property to these studio maternity photos at The Lumen Room in Austin, Elly and Kade’s story feels so beautifully connected.
Studio maternity photos aren’t just about a growing belly. They’re about anticipation, quiet joy, and the shift into parenthood. They are about documenting who you are right before everything changes in the most wonderful way.
If you’d like to see more sessions that document different seasons, you can explore my other blogs:
- Woodbine Mansion Bridal Portraits at a Historic Texas Wedding Venue
- Romantic Engagement Photo Ideas: How to Make Your Session Feel Like a Date
Ready to Book Your Documentary Style Wedding Photographer?
If you’re getting engagement, getting married, or having a baby, I would love to capture all the beautiful seasons of life for you! You can inquire about working together through my contact page, or you can check out more inspiration on my Pinterest.
