London Maternity Photographer
Maternity photoshoots in the West London StudioUnique colour and black and white portraits in the studio and on location around London
Est 2005
Studio Maternity Photoshoots
Fine Art Pregnancy, nude maternity, pregnancy couples
I have been a London maternity photographer for over 20 years and specialise in high end Maternity photoshoots in the Ealing studio. Awarded with NAPCP Master status for my Maternity Portraits I love creating elegant, beautifully lit portraits that you’ll be proud of.
West London Studio within half an hour of Central London.
Guidance on what to wear, where to go and what to expect. Extended family welcome
No images will be shared on Social Media
Why choose me as your Maternity photographer
I specialise in elegant, artistic yet real photography for growing families in London and the surrounding counties. I’ve spent years perfecting what makes both an aesthetic image and great family portrait. I edit for natural expression and stunning lighting to give you the best results.
Not just any old bump pics..
Susan Porter-Thomas
yes, that’s me
My boyfriend and I recently had a maternity shoot with Susan. From the time my boyfriend and I entered her studio we were made to feel very welcomed and comfortable. Even though I was extremely shy and nervous, Susan was able to capture beautiful shots of my boyfriend and I. I love her unique style and her materials used in my session are stunning. I’m so happy with the results of my pictures and I’m now struggling to narrow down my choices of images. Apart from the positive experience on the day of the shoot, communicating with Susan was very easy as she always responded promptly to any of my questions. I recommend her services any day. If you’re looking for someone that genuinely admires their work and values the utmost customer satisfaction then Susan is your photographer.!
We recently had the pleasure of working with Susan for our family photoshoot, and I cannot express how delighted we are with the entire experience.
Susan is not just a talented professional but also an incredibly friendly and kind person. From the moment we met, she put our entire family at ease, especially our kids, making the photoshoot a fun and memorable experience for all of us.
Her expertise and attention to detail are truly remarkable. Susan captured the essence of our family in a way that exceeded our expectations. She has an innate ability to bring out the best in her subjects and create breathtaking, timeless photos. Her professionalism and dedication to her craft are evident in every shot she took.
We wholeheartedly recommend Susan Porter-Thomas Photography to anyone in need of a photographer who not only produces stunning images but also makes the process enjoyable. If you’re looking for a photographer who is not only talented but also wonderful to work with, look no further. We couldn’t be happier with our choice, and we’re certain you won’t be disappointed either.
Thank you, Susan, for giving us treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Important Questions Answered
When is the best time to do a Maternity
Photoshoot?
The best time for a maternity shoot is usually between 32 and 36 weeks, however it really depends on you. As long as we can see you have a bump before 32 weeks (often on a second or third pregnancy you pop out earlier), or if you’re happy and healthy to stand at 39 weeks I will happily do a shoot for you. Obviously if you’re pregnant with twins this time will be a bit earlier.
What happens during a Maternity Shoot?
When you arrive at the studio, we’ll go through any ideas you might have on what you would like to try, images you may have saved that you love from either my portfolio or elsewhere. I will ask you some questions about your preferences in terms of nudity and colours etc and I’ll then curate a shoot that suites you and your style. We’ll use different backgrounds, lighting, clothing, materials to create loads of great looks for you to choose your final images from. You don’t need to know what to do, I will direct you and make you look and feel amazing. You just have to enjoy it and I’ll do the rest.
After the shoot, I’ll then edit down the images to a selection to put into your gallery, from where you can select your included images and buy any more that you love. You’ll only have to wait a few days for this. You’ll be able to see the full set in both colour and black and white.
What should I wear for a maternity shoot?
If you like the portfolio on this page then there is no need to bring any clothing specifically for the shoot. I provide a beautiful selection of materials to use in the shoot, from which I can create elegant dresses and skirts, as well as floaty and stretchy dresses, skirts, shirts and drapes.
It is advisable to bring with you skin coloured pants and some nipple covers if you can get some in your own skin tone, but make sure the underwear you wear on the morning of the shoot is not too tight so as to leave marks.
You are very welcome to bring with you any clothing you would like to use or props such as hats or jewellery which will add your own touch to the images.
Do have a quick read of my what to wear for your pregnancy shoot guide.
Can my partner and children be included in my maternity photos?
Absolutely, they are a part of your family and it’s a really special time for them too. Do bring them along, I will advice on clothing for them to bring so they can be included into the images and look fantastic. Just let me know who you are bringing when you book.
If your children are quite young then it’s probably best to at least have another adult (your partner or parent) so that they can be looked after when we’re doing shots of you on your own.
If you want to bring along your dog, I am happy to include lovely quiet dogs. If they are a bit nervy then it’s best not to bring them, the studio flash can upset sensetive animals.
Will I know how to pose for maternity photos?
Not at all, I will be giving you all the direction you need to create stunning portraits, making sure you’re flattered in the right way and in the right light. If you’ve never had your photos taken before that’s completely fine.
Do I have to take my clothes off for a maternity photoshoot?
No you don’t need to show any skin at all if it’s not your thing. I use materials to great effect in order to make you comfortable but still gorgeous. If you would rather not show your tummy, that’s fine, I’ll use the shape of the material and the wind machine to flatter your lovely shape.
Conversley if you’re happy to take your clothes off, I love doing nude or semi nude images using subtle lighting to show off your curves. Just let me know at the start of the shoot so I can tailor the session to your needs.
Where is your maternity photography studio in London?
My studio is in my home in Ealing, W5 4UJ, and is a lovely natural space with 5 stunning canvass backdrops and room to relax.
There is free parking on the road right outside and we are only 2 mins walk from the Piccadilly line tube station Northfields. It’s half an hour from central London by tube.
How much does a studio pregnancy photoshoot cost?
I offer 3 packages for maternity shoots from £399 to £799. Have a look at my Maternity Pricing here to see which you’d prefer.
EXPLORE MY PORTFOLIO
the
Studio PORTFOLIO
How does it work?
1. Decide if you prefer studio or outdoor portraits
2. Check Availability and get in touch I would aim for between 32-36 weeks if you can but I’m happy to extend this so don’t worry if you’ve missed this window.
3. Decide on your package and either Book Online or in discussion with me
4. Enjoy your photoshoot
5. Receive your gallery within a few days
6. Order your images and products
We had a maternity family photoshoot with Susan. She made us feel very comfortable and welcome, she is a very creative individual and has great passion and skill for photography. We have just received our photos and they are absolutely stunning, capturing emotions and beaming with creative spark. Thank you very much for capturing this beautiful time of our lives so skillfully.
This was a photography session for my wife’s 40th birthday. Susan was very relaxed and made everyone ( a <1 year old and a 3 year old) feel comfortable and at ease, which really showed in the photos. She struck a great balance between giving direction and letting moments unfold naturally, so the pictures feel both polished and genuine. Thank you!
elegant and creative pregnancy portraits
Your maternity photoshoot is designed to celebrate your pregnancy in a relaxed and beautifully styled way. I work with many clients from across London and the south of England who are looking for a refined, artistic maternity photographer with years of experience and a calm, professional approach.
Studio Maternity Photoshoots for London Clients
Studio pregnancy photoshoots take place in my West London Studio, which is easily accessible from Central London by tube. The studio offers:
Five elegant canvas backdrops
Painterly, sculpting lighting
A wind machine for flowing fabrics and dramatic movement
Endless outfit combinations for a truly bespoke look
This setting allows for timeless, magazine-style maternity portraits that focus on you, your pregnancy, and the anticipation of your growing family.
Pregnancy Photoshoot Styling & Outfits
I have a curated collection of maternity dresses and fabrics available for you to use during your photoshoot, all designed to flatter and enhance your pregnancy. You are also very welcome to bring your own outfits if you prefer a more personal or understated style.
Ah Susan, I’m speechless!! The pictures are just incredible, I could never have imagined they would look like that! You are very, very talented. Please tell me where I can leave a glowing review?!
I have to say, it’s obviously an anxious time with birth on the horizon, but honestly, looking at whoever that woman is in the pictures, I feel she is strong and powerful and so ready for whatever is about to happen. All pregnant women should have a photoshoot with you, I think it would really help the NHS out! Thank you SO much,
Other FAQ’s
How do I go about booking a pregnancy shoot?
If you like the work I do then the next step is to check the prices and packages. You can then check availability here on the website or you can send me a text or email and get the ball rolling. You can either book your shoot online or I can do it my end and send you everything you need.
Do you do weekends?
Yes I can do weekends, but prefer to do weekdays so if you can take a bit of time off for the shoot that’d be great.
Do you do weekend shoots?
Sometimes – I largely save weekend shoot slots for families but if you can’t get a bit of time off work let me know.
I really don't want my images on social media is that ok?
Definitely, I actually don’t use social media any more. I do update my website with images I think are strong but you are very welcome to let me know you would rather not be on the website. I never use names in my image metadata so no one will be able to find images of you.
How long is a pregnancy session?
Between 45mins and 1.5 hrs depending on your package
I'm feel really unphotogenic, but I want to do a pregnancy shoot
The only reason you think you’re not photogenic is because you’ve seen so many bad photos of you where you’re in bad light and don’t know what to do with your face or arms. I will guide you to get the best poses and use gorgeous light so that you look amazing.
Do you do Newborn Photo Shoots too?
Yes absolutely. I’ve been a newborn photographer as long as I’ve done pregnancy shoots and do both studio and home newborn photo shoots so do check my baby photo shoot portfolio and book ahead to get a reduced rate if you also book your pregnancy shoot with me.
I'm really body conscious, do I need to take my clothes off?
Not at all, this shoot is for you and as such I will do what you are comfortable with. We will have a chat at the start of the shoot so I know what you’re wanting in terms of style and we will work with your preferences with regards to nudity. Most of my clients decide to have some nude or semi nude shots simply because they look amazing..though I never do shots where you are able to see nipples or the pubic area, so rest assured I will preserve your dignity at all times. Most of the time you will be using materials or arms and posing to cover up.
I wear a headscarf, can I still do a pregnancy shoot?
Yes of course, you don’t have to do anything you’re not comfortable with. I will chat with you at the start of the shoot and work out some lovely outfits to use, it’d be worth bring a few different coloured scarves so we can play with the materials and backdrops to give you a lovely selection of images to choose from.
Do you retouch the images?
Yes I will retouch the images to enhance your natural beauty but not to make you look like another person. I want you to be happy with your portraits so I can take into consideration any issues you may have with your body and will smooth out skin imperfections etc. I am aiming for a best you natural look rather than an overly airbrushed magazine look and as such will not over airbrush images.
Do you offer make up and hair stylists?
Unfortunatly not, so please do come ready with hair and makeup done.
If you want to have hair and makeup done at your home before you come, there’s a great company that does home beauty treatments called Blow
How long will it take before I can see the images?
I usually have your edited images in a private gallery and sent over to you within 3 or 4 days of the shoot.
I've found some pregnancy images I love online, can we try them?
Do show me any images that best describe what style you like as this will help me to give you a bespoke shoot geared to your preferences. I want you to love your images so I’m happy to try new things too.
I'm really nervous ...
If you’re having a wobble with confidence and can’t bear the thought of posing for a camera when your body is simply not your own at the moment…feel conforted you are not alone. I totally get this and will help you get over your shyness, here is a quote from a recent lady who was petrified..
Do read my latest reviews for pregnancy photoshoots
“Pregnancy has been a long moment of profound insecurity for me. I don’t feel my body belongs to me anymore, it behaves in ways I don’t comprehend and the further I go along with the journey, the less confident I am with the way I look. I am so grateful for the way the shoot went, you made me feel at ease straight away. You completely fulfilled the “esthetics” I had in mind for the pictures and for some reason I can’t explain, you magically managed to almost switch-off my self-awareness. “