Planning a maternity photoshoot is exciting, but it can also come with lots of little questions.

When is the best time?
What should we wear?
Is our home “nice enough”?
What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?

After photographing many maternity and newborn sessions here in Copenhagen, I’ve noticed that most couples wonder about the exact same things. So I put everything together in one simple guide to help you feel relaxed and confident before booking your session. Maternity photos shouldn’t feel stressful. They should feel like a cozy memory of this beautiful season of life.

When is the best time to book a maternity photoshoot?

The sweet spot is usually between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage:

• your belly is beautifully round and visible
• you’re still comfortable moving around
• you’re not too close to your due date

If you’re expecting twins or feeling tired earlier, we can always schedule a bit sooner. Every pregnancy is different, comfort always comes first.

I recommend booking your Copenhagen maternity session 1–2 months in advance, especially during spring and summer when dates fill quickly.

Can we do the session at home?

Yes, and honestly, it’s my favorite way to photograph maternity sessions.

Most of my work is in-home lifestyle maternity photography in Copenhagen, because home simply feels more personal and relaxed.

You don’t need a perfect or Pinterest-ready house. All we really need is:

• natural light from windows
• a few cozy corners
• your everyday life

Your living room, bedroom, baby nursery, or even the kitchen can become beautiful backdrops. Home is where your story happens.

What should we wear for maternity photos?

Keep it simple, comfortable, and timeless. I usually recommend:

• soft neutrals (white, beige, cream, grey, earth tones)
• linen, cotton, knits, flowy dresses
• clothes that gently show your bump shape
• bare feet or socks for a cozy feel

Try to avoid:

• large logos
• busy patterns
• very bright colors

The goal is to look like you on your best day, not overly styled. When you book, I’m always happy to help you plan outfits together.

We’re awkward in front of the camera, will you guide us?

This is something almost every couple tells me.  And don’t worry, you don’t need to know how to pose at all.

My approach is very natural and relaxed. Instead of stiff poses, I gently guide you with small prompts like:

• sit together on the sofa
• cuddle in bed
• prepare the baby clothes
• play with your dog
• talk and laugh together

Most of the time you’ll simply be interacting with each other while I document the moment. The result feels real, warm, and effortless, never forced.

What if I don’t feel photogenic or confident right now?

This one is rarely said out loud, but it’s very common. Pregnancy changes your body. You might feel swollen, tired, or just not like yourself.

Please know: you don’t need to look or feel “perfect.” My job as your photographer is to:

• find the best light
• guide you gently
• photograph you from flattering angles
• focus on connection and emotion

You don’t have to perform. You just have to be present. And I promise, you’ll be so grateful to have these memories later.

Can we do the maternity session outdoors instead?

Yes! Outdoor maternity sessions are absolutely possible too.

Copenhagen has so many beautiful locations: the beach, parks, forests, lakes, or soft city streets with Scandinavian architecture. Outdoor photos can feel airy, romantic, and very connected to nature. That said, Denmark’s weather and seasons do play a big role.

If you’re dreaming of:

• flowy dresses
• bare legs
• showing your belly
• soft golden light

…it’s much easier in spring and summer.

Autumn and winter can still be beautiful, but they often mean:

• colder temperatures
• wind
• heavy coats and layers
• shorter daylight hours

So it really depends on the look and feeling you want for your photos.

If you love the idea of showing your bump or wearing lighter outfits, an in-home maternity session is usually the most comfortable option year-round. If you prefer an outdoor setting, we simply plan carefully, choosing the right season, time of day, and location to make the most of the light and weather.

Either way, we’ll create something that feels natural and true to you.

A calm, natural maternity photoshoot in Copenhagen

If you’re looking for a Copenhagen maternity photographer who focuses on natural light and honest moments, I’d love to photograph this chapter for you.

These weeks pass so quickly. Soon the nursery will be full, your arms will be full, and everything will change in the most beautiful way.

This is your “before.” And it’s worth remembering. 🤍

Just a few weeks back, I had the absolute joy of photographing a beautiful Maternity Session in Copenhagen with a mom-to-be who was radiant at 36 weeks pregnant. It was a Sunday morning filled with warmth, love, and chilly surprises.

Our Maternity Photoshoot kicked off at Copenhagen Zoo, where we were welcomed with open arms. After a quick call to the zoo to make sure we could snap some shots in their tropical enclosure, we were not only given the green light but also granted early access to beat the crowds. How sweet is that?

But this session, as we expected, had a foggy start – literally! The humidity in the tropical enclosure fogged up my lenses at first, but once we sorted that out, the magic really began. Amongst the lush greenery and the sounds of exotic birds, we captured some truly beautiful moments.

Braving the Cold Together at Amager Strand

After saying goodbye to our jungle paradise, we ventured out to Amager Strand Park. Now, let me tell you, the scenery was cozy as can be in the photos, but don’t let that fool you – it was freezing! The wind was whipping, and I swear I could barely feel my hands. Note to self: warmer clothes next time!

But you know what? Despite the cold, this couple’s love was like a warm blanket on a chilly day. They snuggled up close, faces lit up with excitement as they awaited their little one’s arrival. 

So, if you’re expecting and thinking about a Maternity Shoot in Copenhagen, don’t let a little cold weather stop you! Embrace the adventure, embrace the love, and let’s create some memories that’ll warm your heart for years to come. For those who prefer a cozy alternative away from the unpredictability of Danish weather, an at-home Maternity Photoshoot is always an option. 

Rain or shine, reach out today, and let’s create some memories together. 🙂

For almost a decade now, Copenhagen has been my home. Living in this charming city has been an incredible journey, but every year, I find myself escaping the European winter to soak up the Brazilian sunshine during Christmas. This annual getaway not only means quality time with family and friends but also unexpected opportunities, like the recent Maternity Photo Session that I had the privilege of shooting in São Paulo.

This particular Maternity Photoshoot held a special place in my heart as it featured a dear friend I met in architecture school about 20 years ago, and despite life’s crazy twists and turns, every time we meet, it’s like no time has passed at all. It’s remarkable how some connections are just effortless like that. So, during my recent Brazilian adventures, I had the pleasure of photographing her journey into motherhood. 

Italian Greyhounds Stealing the show

The maternity photo session took place in the city of São Paulo, where she lives, and it had an extra touch of fun: her two adorable Italian Greyhounds were also part of the session! These two added a whole new dimension of charm to these maternity photos, stealing the spotlight every now and then.

From Brazil to Copenhagen

Twelve years ago, I left Brazil never imagining I’d land in Denmark, work as a photographer in Copenhagen, establish my own photography business focusing on wedding and family photography, and a decade later have the incredible opportunity to capture the maternity session of a dear friend. It was a truly heartwarming experience.

Contact me!

If you’re looking for a Maternity Photoshoot or a Family Photographer, whether you’re in São Paulo or in Copenhagen, get in touch. Let’s create memories together – furry friends included!

Choosing the Perfect Time

When planning a maternity photo shoot at Amager Beach, timing is crucial. I always recommend a time of day when the lighting is soft and flattering, such as the golden hours around sunrise or sunset. The warm, natural light will add a magical touch to your photographs. For this session, we started at 7:00 pm, two hours before sunset, and finished it at 8:00 pm, to avoid that orange skin tone we get when the sun is on the horizon. 

Selecting the Ideal Outfits

Your choice of outfits plays a significant role in creating stunning maternity photographs. Consider wearing dresses, fitted tops, or outfits that accentuate your baby bump and highlight your natural beauty. Soft, pastel colors like blush, or mint, can complement the beach scenery and create a harmonious visual effect.

The Photo Session

My goal is always to capture moments of connection between you and your partner. During your pregnancy photo session, I will guide you through various poses and compositions: gentle walks along the beach, or simply basking in the serene atmosphere, are great for capturing candid and composed shots. 

A maternity photo shoot at Amager Beach in Copenhagen provides a lovely setting to capture your pregnancy journey. Relax, embrace the warmth of natural light, and trust me to create beautiful images as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world.  

I met this lovely couple at the beginning of February for a Maternity photoshoot in Copenhagen. We met at their flat as this was a cold February morning. I love going to people’s homes to photograph them in their “natural habitat.” Finding those corners in the house that I think would be great for photos, moving things around, framing shots with plants and doors, basically using whatever resources we have in their home. And sometimes, you’re surprised with the cutest pets, as you can see in these Maternity photos. Dina, their cat, welcomed me as soon as I got there, but she wasn’t very excited about participating in this Maternity photoshoot.

When should I schedule my Maternity Photo Session?

Ines was 36 weeks pregnant when we shot these. I usually recommend scheduling your maternity session in your third trimester, between 30 and 36 weeks. This will result in the most flattering images as your tummy is visibly round, but not so heavy that you feel too uncomfortable. Don’t leave your maternity photo shoot for a later stage. If your baby decides to arrive early, you run the risk of missing out on capturing your baby bump.

Watching a family grow is one of the greatest privileges when you are a family photographer. Documenting pregnancy, then those first days after the baby is born, everything so new, delicate, and fleeting. The baby phase, first steps, first birthday,  first words. So many firsts and we family photographers get to watch all that happening in front of our lenses, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

I have been photographing this beautiful family for three years now. Since our first maternity photo session in 2019, I have welcomed their baby boy, Ulisse, with a newborn photo session, then a few months later I photographed Ulisses’s baptism. As the grandparents were visiting from abroad, we had a very special family photo session with grandma and grandpa as well. Now, every year in July I’ve been called to shoot his birthday parties, which are always a delight and prepared with so much love.

Not long ago when people asked me what kind of photography I did, I was always a little ashamed of saying “I’m a family photographer”. Now, when I look at photos like these, seeing how families evolve and how we put together so many beautiful memories, I see how lucky I’m working with family photography. Photographing real people, that appreciate what you do and trust you to document those precious moments in their lives. This is a true privilege.

maternity photo session in Copenhagen in 2019  
newborn session welcoming ulisse about a month later


Ulisses’s baptism
Family photoshoot with grandparents
Ulisse turns one!

Dino party! Ulisses’s second birthday                     

]]> https://www.nataliacury.com/from-maternity-photos-to-birthday-parties-family-photography/feed/ 1 https://www.nataliacury.com/maternity-photography-copenhagen-copenhagen-maternity-photo-shoot/ https://www.nataliacury.com/maternity-photography-copenhagen-copenhagen-maternity-photo-shoot/#respond Wed, 16 Feb 2022 15:07:36 +0000 https://www.nataliacury.com/?p=7299 pregnancy photo session in Copenhagen

“when a baby is born, so is a mother”.

People say, when a baby is born, so is a mother. When I go to people’s houses for a maternity photo session, I always like to know how these mothers-to-be are feeling, what their expectations are and how they imagine motherhood. The vast majority of women I meet working as a maternity photographer are fully aware that what awaits them after birth is not a fairy tale. Of course, people can have very different experiences, but in general we can say that this sea change that turns our lives upside down, may not be as magical as our mothers tend to romanticise by telling us about the time they had their babies. So, if you don’t feel as fantastic as your mom allegedly did after giving birth to the miracle that is your baby, it doesn’t mean that you’re ungrateful, it means you’re human. Yes, when a baby is born, so is a mother. And what do we do with the woman who existed before?
After having children, women can experience this mother and woman coexisting and often in conflict. One of them wants to experience every moment in her children’s lives, while the other wants to resume her personal projects, go back to work, change careers, continue her studies. One wants to spend time with her family, the other wants new experiences, change the subject. Becoming a mother doesn’t mean having to leave that woman behind. Sure, she will have to adapt to a new reality, but she is still there and should not be forgotten. Having time for you, taking care of yourself, is just as important as taking care of your family, and you can only take care of others if you are well. 
I like to think that when a baby is born, a more complex woman is born, and becoming that new woman is the hardest and most rewarding job one can have.