One of my favorite things about being a family photographer is that I get to meet people where they’re at. If you’re in a stage of life that makes it hard to prep and leave the house, I’ll come to you for a lifestyle session. If you have kiddos who live for exploration and adventure, let’s head outdoors. And if you prefer equal parts creativity, comfort, and privacy, a studio session is where it’s at.

There’s something about a studio maternity session that just hits differently (but please don’t take that to mean ‘better’ if you have something else in mind). For those in their third trimester, a studio graciously means no chasing golden hour, no praying Chicago’s weather behaves, and no hiding piles of laundry behind a strategically placed plant (we’ve all been there). Just soft light, clean backdrops, and room to play—both creatively and literally.

This session with Tanya and Brian was one for the books. I got to do another incredible shoot at my favorite Chicago studio,  A Darling Studio. (You can check out another recent couple’s maternity session at this Chicago venue right here. And Kendal’s gorgeous studio session is another great one for inspiration.) The studio was the *perfect* match for Tanya’s vision.

When your client shows up with a Pinterest board…

Tanya came to me with a very specific idea in mind (which I absolutely LOVE). She sent over a Pinterest board full of eye-catching silhouettes, editorial studio looks, and modern, minimal vibes. It’s my favorite kind of homework. These ideas help me get inside your brain before we’re standing in front of the camera, and we can fine-tune your desired look together.

Here’s the thing: some clients hesitate to share inspiration because they don’t want to “micromanage” or “step on my creative toes.” But please hear this: bring me your ideas! This is your session, and your input helps me understand the look and feel you’re going for. I’m here to make it uniquely yours.

I like to joke that I’m still working on my mind-reading powers (progress is slow), so a mood board is the next best thing. It’s our shared language—a visual way to align expectations while still leaving room for creative flow.

The beauty of collaboration

Every photographer develops their own sense of form and style over time. Mine leans toward authentic, connection-driven, beautifully imperfect images. I craft images that feel like real life, only a little more cinematic. But that doesn’t mean I can’t color outside the lines. In fact, some of my favorite sessions come from blending your inspiration with my perspective.

Tanya’s board sparked all kinds of ideas, and together we built something that felt so them: fun, relational, and full of joy.

A little studio magic

On the day of the shoot, Tanya and Brian showed up ready to celebrate…and we had a blast! The beauty of a studio maternity session is that you can truly relax and focus on what matters: connection, comfort, and capturing this fleeting chapter before baby arrives.

The studio offers a fresh space for pure, uninterrupted creativity. We don’t have to battle unexpected rain that sends you sprinting back to your car or awkward onlookers interrupting our flow.

A Darling Studio is a dream for photographers, thoughtfully designed by another photographer, with great light, warm neutral textures, and just enough variety to give you a full gallery of distinct looks without ever leaving the room. Whether you want an editorial vibe, a cozy lifestyle setup, or something minimalist and modern, this place has you covered.

And if you’re thinking, “But aren’t studio sessions kind of… boring?” allow me to lovingly change your mind.

Studio sessions are anything but boring

A studio is basically a blank canvas. With the right collaboration, that canvas turns into art that reflects you. Think of it like having a creative playground without having to clean your house or battle the Chicago chill.

We moved from soft neutral backdrops to playful textures and tones, letting Tanya’s personality shine through every frame. One minute, we were going for quiet and serene; the next, we were laughing mid-pose because Brian cracked a joke that broke the “serious model” moment. Those are always my favorite frames when people forget they’re being photographed.

Feeling the love

After the session, Tanya left the sweetest Google review that made my whole week:

“After extensive research, we chose Meg as our photographer for our maternity photos, and we couldn’t have been happier with our decision! I was nervous about the shoot since this was out of character for my husband and me, and I was very particular about the vision. I even sent Meg a mood board before booking, and she came prepared—helping us scout locations to bring that vision to life. She made us feel comfortable throughout the process and turned the day into something truly special and fun!”

Reading words like that never gets old. My goal is always to make you feel comfortable, confident, and excited, even if you’re stepping outside your comfort zone (or dragging your hesitant partner along—they typically end up loving it).

Why you’ll love a studio maternity session in Chicago

If you’re expecting and wondering whether a studio session is right for you, here are my two cents: it’s one of the most versatile, low-stress options out there. The consistent lighting means your images will have a timeless quality. You can plan outfits knowing exactly how the colors will photograph. And if your toddler decides to join, there’s space to play without worrying about mud, bugs, or jailbreak moments.

So go ahead. Bring your ideas, your Pinterest board, and your dream outfit. Let’s collaborate and create something that feels 100% you. Maternity photos aren’t just about documenting a baby bump. They’re about celebrating the story behind it, and looking forward to what is to come.