Everything you need to know before booking your maternity photoshoot in Surrey, South London and surrounding areas.
Pregnancy is one of the most extraordinary chapters in a woman’s life. It is a season filled with anticipation, change, excitement and deep connection. While the months may sometimes feel long, many parents are surprised by how quickly this special time passes.
A professional maternity photoshoot allows you to pause for a moment and celebrate your journey before your baby arrives.
If you’re searching for maternity photography Surrey, this guide will answer everything you need to know — from the best time to book, what to wear, location ideas, how to prepare, and how to choose the right photographer for your family.
Hi, I’m Sandra from San Vid Photography, an award-winning maternity and family photographer based in Sutton, Surrey.
Over the years I have photographed hundreds of expectant mothers across Surrey and South London, helping women who often tell me they feel nervous in front of the camera.
My approach combines creative portraiture with a relaxed and supportive experience, creating elegant maternity photographs that celebrate this unique chapter of family life.
In 2025, I was honoured to receive the Maternity Photographer of the Year award from The Society of Photographers.
The advice throughout this guide comes directly from my experience photographing real maternity sessions in Surrey parks, woodlands, studios and family homes.
When Is The Best Time For A Maternity Photoshoot?
How Far In Advance Should You Book?
- Popular months fill quickly
- Spring and autumn dates book first
- Weekend sessions limited
- Contact photographer after 20-week scan
One of the most common questions I receive is:
“When should I book my maternity photoshoot?”
For most women, the ideal time for a pregnancy photoshoot Surrey session is between 28 and 35 weeks pregnant.
At this stage:
- Your bump is beautifully visible and well-defined.
- Most mums still feel comfortable moving around.
- Swelling is often less noticeable than during the final weeks.
- There is enough flexibility in case baby decides to arrive early.
Why 28–35 Weeks Works Best
Every pregnancy develops differently, but this window generally provides the perfect balance between comfort and appearance.
If you are expecting twins or multiples, I often recommend booking slightly earlier, around 26–30 weeks, as bumps tend to grow faster and discomfort can increase sooner.
Don’t Leave Booking Too Late
One mistake many parents make is waiting until the final month to start looking for a photographer.
The best Surrey maternity photography sessions are often booked several weeks or even months in advance, especially during spring, summer and autumn.
Ideally, I recommend:
- Contacting your photographer after your 20-week scan.
- Securing your session date around 22–26 weeks.
- Photographing your session around 28–35 weeks.
This gives plenty of flexibility if weather changes or your due date shifts unexpectedly.
Can I Have A Maternity Session Earlier?
Absolutely.
Some women prefer documenting their pregnancy journey earlier, especially if:
- They are carrying multiples.
- They have medical considerations.
- They wish to capture a more subtle bump.
- They are planning a combined maternity and newborn package.
The most important factor is choosing a time when you feel comfortable and confident.
Studio Or Outdoor Maternity Photography?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between a studio session and an outdoor maternity photoshoot.
The good news?
There is no right or wrong answer.
Both options create beautiful images, but each offers a different experience and style.
Ex. You can see pregnancy pictures taken in studio and outdoors wearing the same maternity dress.
Studio Maternity Photography
Studio maternity photography focuses on simplicity, elegance and artistic lighting.
In my Sutton, Surrey studio, sessions are carefully designed to highlight your pregnancy through flattering poses, beautiful fabrics and professional lighting.
Benefits Of Studio Sessions
Weather-Proof
The British weather can be unpredictable.
A studio session guarantees perfect conditions regardless of rain, wind or cold temperatures.
Access To Maternity Wardrobe
Many professional maternity photographers provide gowns, fabrics and styling options.
At San Vid Photography, a selection of maternity dresses and draping fabrics is available for clients to use during their session.
Artistic Lighting
Studio lighting allows precise control over every image.
This creates:
- Elegant portraits
- Fine-art inspired images
- Dramatic silhouettes
- Timeless black and white photographs
Privacy
Some mums feel more relaxed in a private studio environment, especially if they wish to wear fitted dresses or fabric draping.
Outdoor Maternity Photography
Outdoor maternity photography creates a more natural and lifestyle-inspired feel.
The changing seasons of Surrey provide beautiful backdrops throughout the year.
Benefits Of Outdoor Sessions
Natural Beauty
Outdoor locations provide:
- Open landscapes
- Woodland settings
- Long grass meadows
- Lakes and ponds
- Autumn colours
- Spring blossom
Relaxed Atmosphere
Many clients tell me they feel more natural walking, talking and interacting outdoors compared to posing inside a studio.
This often results in authentic expressions and natural connections.
Seasonal Character
Every season tells a different story.
Spring offers fresh blossom and soft colours.
Summer brings golden evenings and lush greenery.
Autumn creates rich textures and warm tones.
Winter can provide beautiful minimalist scenes and dramatic skies.
Which Option Is Best?
Choose a studio session if you:
- Prefer elegant portraits.
- Want access to maternity dresses.
- Like artistic lighting.
- Want guaranteed comfort.
Choose an outdoor session if you:
- Love nature.
- Prefer candid images.
- Enjoy scenic landscapes.
- Want seasonal colours.
Many families choose both options through combined maternity packages.
This provides variety and captures different aspects of your pregnancy journey.
What To Wear For Your Pregnancy Photoshoot
Choosing what to wear can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be.
The goal is simple:
Choose clothing that makes you feel beautiful, comfortable and confident.
Best Colours For Maternity Photography
Soft, timeless tones tend to photograph beautifully.
Popular choices include:
- Cream
- Ivory
- White
- Beige
- Camel
- Soft pink
- Dusty rose
- Lavender
- Light blue
- Earthy browns
- Red
These colours complement natural landscapes and create elegant studio portraits.
Fitted Dresses
Fitted dresses are popular because they beautifully showcase the shape of your bump.
Many women worry they need a specific body shape to wear fitted clothing.
In reality, professional posing and lighting make a much bigger difference than dress style.
Flowing Gowns
Flowing maternity gowns create movement and softness.
These dresses work particularly well outdoors where fabric can catch natural wind and movement.
What Should Partners Wear?
Keep things simple.
Neutral colours work best.
Consider:
- Cream shirts
- White shirts
- Beige knitwear
- Soft grey tones
- Navy accents
Avoid large logos, busy patterns and bright neon colours.
The goal is for attention to remain on your family connection rather than clothing.
What Should Children Wear?
Children photograph beautifully in:
- Neutral tones
- Soft textures
- Simple dresses
- Linen clothing
- Knitwear
Coordinating colours rather than matching outfits usually creates the most timeless result.
Professional Maternity Wardrobe
One of the advantages of booking a professional maternity photography in Surrey session is access to specialised maternity clothing.
Many clients tell me they have nothing suitable to wear.
That is completely normal.
Professional maternity dresses are specifically designed to flatter pregnancy and photograph beautifully.
At San Vid Photography, maternity gowns and styling options are available to help create a polished and elegant look without requiring additional shopping.
Should Your Partner And Children Join?
Absolutely.
Some of the most meaningful maternity photographs include the people who are eagerly awaiting baby’s arrival.
While individual portraits remain an important part of every session, family images add emotion, connection and storytelling.
Why Include Your Partner?
Your pregnancy journey belongs to both of you.
Including your partner helps tell the complete story.
These photographs often become family favourites because they capture anticipation, excitement and genuine connection.
Partner photographs can include:
- Holding the bump
- Walking together
- Natural interaction
- Candid laughter
- Gentle embraces
These moments often feel less posed and more meaningful.
Including Older Children
Older siblings often bring energy, personality and emotion into a session.
Some of the sweetest images happen naturally when children interact with mum’s bump.
Children might:
- Hug the bump
- Kiss the bump
- Talk to baby
- Hold ultrasound photos
- Share a cuddle with parents
These photographs become especially meaningful once baby arrives.
What If My Child Doesn’t Cooperate?
This is one of the biggest worries parents have.
The truth is:
Children rarely need to sit perfectly still to create beautiful photographs.
Experienced family photographers know how to work with children’s personalities rather than against them.
The best images often happen during play, movement and genuine interaction.
No pressure. No forced smiles.
Just natural family moments.
Best Maternity Photoshoot Locations In Surrey
One of the reasons I love offering outdoor maternity photography is the incredible variety of locations available across Surrey and South London. Whether you prefer open countryside, woodland walks, lakeside views or colourful seasonal backdrops, Surrey offers beautiful options throughout the year.
When helping clients choose a location, I always consider three things:
- The style of photographs they love
- Accessibility and walking distance
- Time of year
Here are some of my favourite maternity photoshoot locations.
Nonsuch Park, Cheam
Located on the border of Surrey and South London, Nonsuch Park is one of the most popular locations for maternity photography.
It offers:
- Beautiful tree-lined paths
- Open green spaces
- Historic architecture
- Seasonal colours throughout the year
The variety within one location means we can create several different looks during a single session.
Beddington Park, Wallington
A wonderful location for families who love nature and water views.
Beddington Park features:
- Lakes and ponds
- Mature trees
- Open grass areas
- Charming bridges
This location works particularly well during spring and autumn.
Riddlesdown Common, Purley
For clients looking for a more countryside-inspired feel, Riddlesdown Common provides stunning open landscapes and beautiful natural scenery.
The long grass, wildflowers and rolling views create a soft and romantic backdrop for pregnancy photography.
Box Hill and Headley Heath Surrey
Box Hill is one of Surrey’s most iconic outdoor locations.
The elevated views and natural landscape create breathtaking maternity portraits, particularly during golden hour.
This location is ideal for clients seeking dramatic scenery and a sense of adventure.
Epsom Downs
Epsom Downs offers beautiful open views and stunning sunsets.
The wide spaces create a sense of freedom and serenity that works beautifully for maternity photography.
Local Hidden Gems
One advantage of working with a local Surrey maternity photographer is access to quieter locations that many people don’t know about.
Over the years, I have discovered a variety of hidden woodland paths, blossom spots and seasonal locations across Sutton, Epsom, Surrey and South London that provide beautiful backdrops without large crowds.
Many of my clients appreciate having location recommendations tailored specifically to the style of photographs they love.
Best Locations For Spring Blossom
- Nonsuch Park
- Beddington Park
Best Locations For Autumn Colours
- Nonsuch Park
- Oaks Park
- Riddlesdown Common
Best Sunset Locations
- Epsom Downs
- Banstead Downs
Best Locations Near Sutton
- Nonsuch Park
- Beddington Park
- Oaks Park
What Happens During A Maternity Session?
Many women feel nervous before their maternity photoshoot.
In fact, one of the most common things I hear is:
“I’ve never done anything like this before.”
The good news is that most clients who arrive feeling nervous leave saying they genuinely enjoyed the experience.
A professional maternity session is designed to feel relaxed, comfortable and enjoyable.
Before The Session
Before your photoshoot, we’ll discuss:
- Studio or outdoor preferences
- Clothing options
- Dress selection
- Family participation
- Style preferences
- Colour choices
This helps create a session that feels personal to you.
During The Session
You don’t need modelling experience.
You don’t need to know how to pose.
You don’t need to worry about what to do with your hands.
Guidance is provided throughout the entire session.
Small adjustments in posture, hand placement and body angle make a significant difference in creating flattering photographs.
My goal is always to make clients feel comfortable rather than overly posed.
Many of the most beautiful images come from natural interaction and genuine emotion.
Family Images
If your partner or children are joining, we will create a mixture of:
- Individual portraits
- Couple portraits
- Family photographs
- Sibling interaction images
This creates a complete gallery with plenty of variety.
After The Session
Following your session, your photographs are carefully selected and professionally edited.
Every image receives individual attention to ensure a polished and timeless finish while maintaining natural skin tones and authentic emotion.
The final result is a collection of beautiful photographs that celebrate this unique chapter of your family’s story.
How To Choose The Right Maternity Photographer
There are many talented photographers offering maternity photography in Surrey.
Choosing the right photographer is about much more than price.
The experience, style and expertise of your photographer will directly influence the final photographs.
Here are some important factors to consider.
Look For Consistency
A strong portfolio should demonstrate consistency across multiple clients.
Ask yourself:
- Do the photographs have a recognisable style?
- Are skin tones natural?
- Is the quality consistent?
- Can the photographer work in different lighting conditions?
Consistency is often a sign of experience.
Choose A Style You Love
Every photographer has a different approach.
Some specialise in:
- Documentary photography
- Lifestyle photography
- Fine art portraits
- Editorial-inspired imagery
- Natural family photography
Choose a photographer whose work genuinely resonates with you.
If you love soft, elegant and emotive images, look for a portfolio that consistently reflects those qualities.
Experience Matters
Pregnancy photography requires specialist knowledge.
An experienced maternity photographer understands:
- Safe posing
- Flattering angles
- Lighting techniques
- Pregnancy-specific styling
- Working with families and young children
This expertise helps create a more comfortable experience and stronger final images.
Read Reviews
Client reviews provide valuable insight into what it’s actually like to work with a photographer.
Look for comments about:
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Comfort during the session
- Quality of photographs
- Overall experience
Consider What Is Included
Every photographer structures packages differently.
Ask about:
- Session duration
- Number of images
- Access to maternity dresses
- Studio access
- Outdoor options
- Family participation
- Product options
Understanding exactly what is included helps avoid surprises later.
Choose Someone Who Makes You Feel Comfortable
Perhaps the most important factor is connection.
You should feel relaxed, understood and supported throughout the process.
A maternity photoshoot is a personal experience.
Working with someone who makes you feel comfortable often results in more natural and meaningful photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book my maternity photoshoot?
Ideally after your 20-week scan. Most sessions take place between 28 and 35 weeks.
What if my baby arrives early?
Booking earlier provides flexibility. If necessary, session dates can often be adjusted.
Can my partner join the session?
Absolutely. Partner photographs are included in many maternity sessions and help tell the complete story.
Can my children be included?
Yes. Siblings are always welcome and often create some of the most meaningful photographs.
Do I need to bring my own outfits?
Not necessarily. A selection of maternity dresses is available for clients to use.
Where do maternity sessions take place?
Sessions can take place in the studio, outdoors around Surrey and South London, or occasionally at home.
What should I wear underneath maternity gowns?
Neutral-coloured underwear is usually recommended. Specific guidance is provided before your session.
What if I feel nervous in front of the camera?
Most clients feel this way initially. Professional guidance throughout the session helps you feel relaxed and confident.
Can I combine maternity and baby photography?
Yes. Many families book both sessions together to document the complete journey into parenthood.
Are outdoor sessions available all year round?
Yes. Every season offers unique photographic opportunities and beautiful natural backdrops.
How long does a maternity session take?
Most sessions last between one and two hours, depending on location, outfit changes and family participation.
Do you provide maternity dresses?
Yes. A collection of maternity gowns and styling options is available for clients.
Book Your Surrey Maternity Photoshoot
Pregnancy is a chapter that deserves to be celebrated.
Long after the sleepless nights, first birthdays and school runs begin, these photographs become a reminder of where your family’s story started.
Whether you prefer elegant studio portraits, natural outdoor images or a combination of both, maternity photography allows you to preserve this remarkable moment before your baby arrives.
As an award-winning maternity photographer based in Sutton, I proudly photograph families across Surrey, Cheam, Carshalton, Wallington, Purley, Croydon, Epsom, Ewell and South London.
Every session is carefully planned to create images that feel natural, beautiful and personal to you.
Maternity dresses are available, partners and children are welcome, and both studio and outdoor options are offered.
If you’re looking for a Surrey maternity photographer who combines creativity, emotion and a relaxed experience, I would love to help tell your story.
Get in touch today to discuss your maternity photoshoot and reserve your preferred session date.
