5 Beautiful poses for your maternity photos

Pregnancy is a truly special and unforgettable time. It’s no wonder so many expectant mothers and couples choose to capture this moment through photography. In our daylight studios in Amsterdam, we provide a calm, welcoming space where you’ll feel at ease in no time. From the neutral colour palettes and soft, diffused light to the serene textures and cosy furniture.. Here, you can preserve one of the most meaningful chapters of your life forever. We completely understand that a maternity photoshoot can feel a little daunting at first, but there’s really no need to worry.

The secret to an unforgettable session lies in finding the right poses. Poses that suit your body, your energy, and your personal style. Below, we’ve shared five inspiring pose ideas, all captured by talented photographers in our studios. Try practising a few at home before your shoot, and step in front of the camera with confidence.
Studio: The Loft Photo credits: Sol Fotografie

1. Timeless and tender: The classic belly pose

Simple, yet so powerful. Stand or sit tall, place one or both hands gently on your bump, and take a moment to connect with the new life growing inside you. This pose highlights not just your belly, but the bond between you and your baby. You can vary it endlessly: sitting on the sofa, standing by our tall windows framed with romantic curtains. Perfect for those who love minimalist, intimate imagery.
2. The silhouette pose: playing with light and form
Using the natural light that fills our studios, a silhouette captures your curves in the most delicate way. Best shot against backlight, your outline becomes a natural composition against the studio’s bright windows. This pose is adored by photographers who love contrast and form: it’s elegant, powerful, and beautifully feminine.
Studio: The Loft Photo credits: Cindy van Rees
3. Movement: Dancing with the light
Perfect for those who prefer natural, spontaneous images. Move softly: roll your shoulders, close your eyes for a moment, feel the rhythm of the music. Our favourite maternity photographers know how to play with light and motion to create photographs that feel like a dance; full of energy, ease, and authenticity. Ideal for anyone who doesn’t like to “pose.”
Studio: The Livingroom Photo credits: Lauw Design & Photography

4. Seated with a twist
Not every striking maternity photo needs to be taken standing. Sometimes, the magic lies in a subtle seated pose, but with a modern twist. Our design chairs and iconic staircases offer the perfect backdrop to play with lines and composition. In The Loft and The Playground, the natural light cascading over the steps creates a beautiful atmosphere, while a softly draped fabric or flowing dress moves gently with you.

Whether you’re seated or gracefully leaning back, this pose radiates calm, elegance and strength. From a minimalist setting with a vintage chair featuring chrome details, to a more romantic shot on the stairs: this position highlights your form in a contemporary, artistic way.

Studio: The Loft Photo credits: Carline van Kuijk Fotografie
Studio: The Livingroom Photo credits: Lauw Design & Photography
5. Standing pose with fabric or draping
Use a light piece of fabric or a curtain that flows gently with the daylight. Let your photographer play with the material to create an image that conveys both strength and vulnerability. A true ode to the female form: artistic, elegant, and utterly Pinterest-worthy.
Studio: The Loft Photo credits: Sol Fotografie

Photographer’s tips: getting the most out of your maternity shoot

  • Plan your session between weeks 30 and 34: your bump will have a lovely round shape, and you’ll likely still feel comfortable.
  • Choose soft fabrics and light tones that catch the natural light beautifully.
  • Trust the light. Our studios are designed to make you glow; no harsh flashes or artificial light needed.
  • And most importantly: be yourself. Real emotion always outshines perfection.
  • Studio: The Loft Photo credits: Jennifer de Vos

    Capture your story in our Amsterdam daylight studios

    Whether you choose The Loft, The Playground or The Livingroom, each studio offers a warm, familiar atmosphere that helps you feel right at home. At Atelier Oost Amsterdam, we collaborate with gifted photographers who celebrate femininityand know exactly how to tell your story through their lens.

    Would you love to have your own maternity photos taken in Amsterdam? Book your shoot in one of our daylight studios and experience a session as special as the moment itself.