When Dad Shows Up (And I Mean Really Shows Up)
Let’s just admit it… sometimes maternity photography sessions can feel a little one-sided. Mom is glowing, her belly beautiful and her mood serene, and then there’s Dad… standing stiffly to the side like he forgot how to move his arms 🤷♂️. Sound familiar?
Ok, sometimes that’s the reality and we work with it BUT (cue dramatic music)… when your guy is all in, when he gets it and actually wants to be there? OHSWEETMERCY. That’s when the real magic begins. I’ve photographed couples where the spouse wasn’t just present out of obligation but was engaged, loving, tender, present – and my word, the difference you feel in those photos? It’s absolutely everything.
So let’s talk about how including your partner in your maternity session isn’t just about filling a frame, it’s about capturing your connection. That invisible thread that’s already wrapping itself around your growing baby – it deserves to be seen, felt, remembered.
Why Intimacy Matters in Maternity Photos
I’ve seen it happen: a couple arrives, schedules synced only thanks to sheer willpower (or maybe Starbucks). The session starts off a bit checklist-y: stand here, hand there, kiss the bump. Only… something’s missing. You can see it in the photos. They’re just… flat.
What’s missing? It’s intimacy. The kind of closeness that doesn’t come from a Pinterest pose, but from two people sinking into the moment together.
Here’s what I do differently: I use emotional cues to dial things in. I bring you physically close so that what’s happening emotionally spills over. I look for how your eyes meet, where your hands land without being told. If holding eye contact for 10 seconds turns into giggles? Perfect. That’s real. And real is what we’re here for.
Tips to Bring Out Connection (Not Just Poses)
Making partner-inclusive maternity photography feel genuine and heartfelt doesn’t just happen. It’s about intention, guidance, and a heck of a lot of trust. Here’s how we shift your session from “posed” to personal:
1. Get Physically Close… Then Get Closer
Once I’ve guided you into a foundational pose, I’ll nudge you to snuggle in until it almost feels too close.
- Forehead resting gently against his?
- Arms around the baby bump and each other?
- That little hip sway you didn’t know you were doing?
The best images often come after the pose, when you’ve relaxed into each other and the smile turns from “cheese” to “I love doing life with this person.”
2. Eye Contact Isn’t Just for the Camera
Here’s a wild trick: instead of looking at me, look at each other. Hold that gaze. Like really hold it. Yep… it might get awkward. 🤪 But you’ll laugh, or maybe melt into some unscripted sweetness. Either way, that’s where the emotion lives.
- It turns a “pose” into a shared moment.
- It brings presence into the photo.
- It shows your baby, years from now, the real story of your love.
3. Be Ready to Fit Together Like Puzzle Pieces
This is the best “prep tip” I give my couples: come ready to lean into each other – literally.
- Bring your natural ways of being close. Do you always hold hands? Do you rest your head on his shoulder?
- Think less about looking perfect and more about feeling comfortable and safe.
- Embrace the snuggly chaos. It brings out those grins that can’t be faked.
I promise, even if it’s your first time doing photos together, I’ll help you find your rhythm. And yes, I’ll guide you with humor because nothing breaks tension like a silly directive that actually works 😂.
4. Bring the Shared Intention
You might think maternity photos are just “for mom,” but I promise: when both partners are emotionally on board, the entire tone of the session shifts.
When the expecting dad isn’t just tagging along but truly participates – holding her hand, whispering something silly, pulling her close – suddenly these quiet, everyday gestures mean so much more.
You’re not just celebrating the baby. You’re documenting the two of you becoming parents. That’s big stuff.
Why This Stuff Matters (Hint: It’s Not About the Perfect Pose)
Partner-inclusive maternity sessions aren’t just pretty photos with a scenic bump. They’re a chance to freeze this wildly emotional, strangely fleeting time in a way that reflects your real connection.
The way you hold each other. The way you laugh when you don’t know what else to do. That quiet, shared excitement… and let’s be honest, the low-key terror of becoming parents 😅.
It’s all worthy of being remembered.
So yes, we’ll get that shot where you’re looking at the camera (grandparents love those). But the ones that make you pause every time you pass the frame on your hallway wall? Those will be the images where you weren’t posing – you were loving.
Ready to Capture the “Us” in This Chapter?
If you’re looking for natural, connection-rich maternity photography in Maryland or DC, and you want your session to feel more like a warm afternoon together than an awkward family photo redo… hi, I’m Liz 🙋♀️.
I specialize in emotionally present photography for expecting couples who want every laugh, snuggle, and side-eye captured with truth and tenderness. You bring the connection, I’ll tell the story.
Feel ready? Let’s make some magic you’ll feel forever.
Or pop into my inbox if you’ve got questions about how to make your partner feel comfortable during the shoot – I’m hyped to help.
Liz Viernes Photography is based near Colesville, MD, and specializes in maternity, fresh 48, posed and lifestyle newborns and first year milestone portraits.
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