Welcoming a new baby is such a beautiful season. And when you already have a little one at home, your maternity session becomes even more meaningful. If you’re wondering how to incorporate your toddler into your maternity shoot… this is for you.
Including your little one in your maternity shoot not only celebrates the growing bond between siblings, but also gives you timeless memories of this chapter in your family’s story. These are the photos you will want to hang on your wall for the years to come. And did you know, family photos displayed in your home are scientifically beneficial to kids as they grow? It’s true!
This sweet family’s session below is a perfect example of how to make your little one feel special during a big life transition. We met up in my cozy, light-filled lifestyle loft studio with soft textures and dreamy neutrals. Here we captured the excitement of both parents and their daughter as they prepared to welcome a new baby. Their little one felt included, special and had so much fun. As a Virginia family photographer, I call that a win.
Here are a few ways you can make sure to incorporate your toddler into your maternity shoot:
1. Playful Games
Toddlers aren’t built for still portraits. I am a baby-lead photographer, and that includes listening to toddlers needs. They thrive when the session feels fun. In this session, we incorporated playful games like twirling on the bed, giggles with dad, and flying high in mom’s arms. These moments not only kept her engaged, but also brought out genuine smiles and belly laughs that lit up the entire session. Bonus tip: you can also bring non-messy snacks for your toddler if you want to have a little break for them!
2. Talk About the New Baby
One of my favorite prompts is asking toddlers about their new sibling. During this shoot, their daughter leaned in to kiss and snuggle mom’s belly. This was an unprompted, heart-melting moment that perfectly captured her excitement. These interactions help toddlers connect to the idea of becoming a big brother or sister, and the photos preserve that sweet anticipation forever.
3. Capture Their Individual Portraits
Your toddler deserves their own spotlight, too. In between family moments, I always take time for individual portraits. Whether it’s snuggling into mom’s arms or giving me their best grin, these photos honor who they are right now… before they step into their new role as an older sibling.
From mom’s elegant lace gown to the little one’s delicate dress (both from the client closet!), every detail of this shoot highlighted warmth, connection, and timeless beauty. That is what I am always looking to do as a lifestyle photographer.
Documenting the laughter, the quiet snuggles, and the love between parents and child ensures this family will always remember not just the season of waiting… but the joy of growing together.
So if you’re wanting to know how to incorporate your toddler into your maternity session – know that it’s possible to make the experience fun, smooth, and memorable.
With thoughtful planning and a little play, your photos can reflect the heart of your family… exactly as it is right now.
If you want more inspiration, you can peek at another maternity shoot in the studio, also featuring a big sibling, here!
