MONIKA SZMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY
Maternity Photography Manchester
Pregnancy Photoshoot Manchester — Studio & Outdoor Sessions
I know exactly how you feel right now.
When I was pregnant with my son, I didn't book a maternity session. I didn't feel my best. My body was changing in ways I wasn't always comfortable with. And I told myself I'd wait — that maybe I'd do it next time.
There was no next time. And to this day, I wish with all my heart that someone had gently convinced me — had posed me, guided me, made me feel beautiful — so that I could hold those photographs now.
That's exactly why I do what I do. As a maternity photographer in Manchester, I create pregnancy portraits that don't just document your bump — they celebrate it. They capture the anticipation, the tenderness, the quiet joy of waiting to meet the person who is already changing everything.
Most of the mums-to-be who come to me weren't even planning a maternity session. They were booking a newborn shoot, and I persuaded them. Every single one of them has told me afterwards: I'm so glad I did it.
You will be too. I promise.
When to book your maternity photoshoot
The sweet spot for a maternity photoshoot is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy — when your bump is beautifully full and round, but you're still comfortable, mobile and glowing.
I always recommend booking in your second trimester to secure your preferred date and give us time to plan your session together. Popular weekend slots fill up quickly, especially for outdoor sessions during spring and summer.
If you're reading this and you're already past 36 weeks — don't worry. Get in touch and I'll do everything I can to fit you in. Some of my most beautiful maternity portraits have been taken at 38 weeks.
Maternity Photoshoot Experience
Designed with busy moms in mind, my process is here to help you capture those precious moments.
1. Consultation
Let's bring your dream photoshoot to life! We'll explore various backgrounds, poses, and unforgettable concepts. Through a Facetime or phone meeting, we'll dive deep into your ideas and expectations and transform your vision into a mesmerizing reality.
2. photoshoot day
On your special day, arrive at the studio at your appointed time. We'll finalize your wardrobe selection and pamper you with hair and makeup. Choose from our fabulous collection of studio outfits, including luxurious silky fabric and stunning maternity dresses. Get ready for 3-4 unique looks and outfit changes for a beautiful collection of images. Don't worry if it's your first session - our goal is to make you feel comfortable, beautiful, confident, and empowered. You'll receive guidance on posing for stunning shots.
3. Viewing & Ordering
After your session, you'll receive a link to preview your stunning images and select the ones for editing. This is your chance to handpick your favourites and order any wall art or print products. Once you've made your selections, I'll work my editing magic to ensure your photos are flawlessly transformed into timeless masterpieces
4. Delivering your final products
Your carefully retouched images will be ready for you to enjoy. With your private online gallery, you'll be able to download your digital images and share them with loved ones. Your artwork will be delivered to your home, creating cherished memories for your family to enjoy for years to come. Finally, you'll have the chance to hold your prints and experience the beauty firsthand.
What's included in your maternity session
Every maternity photography session with me is designed to feel completely relaxed, personal and luxurious — from the first message you send me to the moment your prints arrive at your door.
Here's everything that's included:
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Photoshoot design consultation — by phone or FaceTime, we'll plan every detail together
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Full access to my wardrobe of maternity gowns, silks and flowing dresses — no need to bring anything
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2 - 3 outfit changes and looks within your session
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Expert posing guidance throughout — you'll never feel awkward or unsure
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Private online gallery for viewing and downloading your finished images
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Beautifully retouched, edited images delivered within 2–3 weeks
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Add a hair and makeup artist available to help you feel your absolute best (ask me about availability and price)
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Option to add fine art prints, albums and wall art
Our photoshoot experience covers everything that goes into creating a beautiful and relaxing photography experience for you.
What's included:
Photoshoot Design Consultation
Access to our exquisite wardrobe
Styling
Customized and fully-guided photoshoot
Viewing & Ordering Session
Maternity Photography Packages
Silver Collection £249
- 1-hour photo session in the studio or outdoors
- access to all dresses and accessories
- 7 digital images are included in this package
Images will be edited and uploaded to the private online gallery, available for download.
Gold Collection £299
- 1-1.5 hour photoshoot
- access to all dresses and accessories
- 10 digital images included in this package
Images will be edited and uploaded to the private online gallery, available for download.
Platinum Collection £399
-1.5-2 hour photo session
- access to all dresses and accessories
- 15 digital images included and presented on a beautiful USB
Add for £99
- 15 fine art 6x8 prints in the box or photo book.
Maternity photography locations across Manchester & Cheshire
My studio is based in Manchester and I photograph maternity sessions across the North West — both in the studio and at beautiful outdoor locations.
I regularly work with clients from Manchester city centre, Didsbury, Chorlton, Stockport, Altrincham, Sale, Wilmslow, Hale and across Cheshire. If you're not sure whether I travel to your area, just ask — I almost certainly do.
For outdoor maternity sessions, I love working with Manchester's parks, gardens and woodland locations — particularly in spring and summer when the light and blossom are at their most beautiful. The cherry blossom in Platt Fields Park and the bluebell woods near Lyme Park are particular favourites.
When is the best time to have a maternity photoshoot?
The ideal time is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, your bump is beautifully round and prominent, but you're still comfortable enough to move freely and enjoy the session. I recommend booking in your second trimester to secure your preferred date — especially if you're hoping for a weekend or outdoor shoot.
What should I wear to my maternity photoshoot?
You don't need to bring anything — I provide a full wardrobe of maternity gowns, flowing dresses and silky wraps in a range of colours and styles. During your consultation, we'll choose the looks that suit your colouring, taste and the mood you want to create. Most clients do 3–4 outfit changes within their session.
Can my partner and children come to the maternity shoot?
Absolutely — and I'd love to include them. Partner and sibling shots can add so much warmth and story to your maternity gallery. We can do a section with just you for the more artistic portraits, and then bring everyone in for the family moments. Just let me know when you book.
Do you offer outdoor maternity photography in Manchester?
Yes — outdoor maternity sessions are one of my specialities. I work with beautiful locations across Manchester and Cheshire, including parks, gardens and woodland settings. Outdoor sessions are particularly popular in spring and summer. If the weather lets us down on the day, I always have my studio as a beautiful backup.
How long does a maternity photoshoot take?
Sessions range from one hour (Silver package) to two hours (Platinum package). This gives us time for multiple outfit changes, different looks and locations within the studio, and plenty of relaxed time to capture natural, unposed moments. There's never any rush — your session is entirely your own.
How soon after my session will I receive my photographs?
After your session, you'll receive a viewing gallery, where you'll see your images and choose your favourites for editing. Your fully retouched images are then delivered to your private online gallery within 2–3 weeks.
Do you offer bump-to-baby packages combining maternity and newborn?
Yes — my bump-to-baby packages are one of the most popular choices. You book both your maternity and newborn sessions together and save on the combined price. It's a beautiful way to capture the full journey from pregnancy to the baby's first weeks. See my bump-to-baby prices page for details.
How much does a maternity photoshoot in Manchester cost?
My maternity packages start from £249 for the Silver Collection (1 hour, 7 digital images) up to £399 for the Platinum Collection (up to 2 hours, 15 digital images plus fine art prints). All packages include free use of my full gown wardrobe. See the packages section above for full details, or get in touch if you have any questions.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to book your maternity session?
I'd love to hear from you. Whether you have questions about packages, locations, or just want to say hello — fill in my contact form and I'll be back in touch within 24 hours.
Spaces fill up quickly, especially for spring and summer outdoor sessions — so the sooner you get in touch, the better.