Carmel, Indiana Maternity Photographer | Abigail’s Family Session with Baby #3

Baby #3 was on the way for this beautiful family! Mom Abigail really wanted to make sure her family was the focus of this session. As a maternity photographer in Carmel, Indiana family maternity photos with siblings are definitely in my wheelhouse! I knew mom wanted her kids incorporated in the majority of the shots, so we did just that.

Abigail was such a natural in front of the camera and her kids were full of energy and personality.

Scroll down to the bottom of this post to see all my favorites from Abigail's session! And take a peek at my full maternity photography portfolio.

Why I Love Carmel, Indiana for Maternity Photos

We found a beautiful park in Carmel that gave her kiddos space to be just that.. kids. Lots of trees and tall grasses, long paths we could walk, and even some stone stairs that were perfect for the kids to sit on together for a few quick photos.

This is what I look for in Carmel during the summer months when I'm choosing a location for pregnant moms who are also bringing their kids:

• shade and tree coverage (because Indiana summer can be HOT)

• open space so kids can move around and be free

• a few natural stations like steps, a path, or tall grasses so we can get variety without a long hike

And yes, it was a very hot but very perfect day. If you're booking in late spring or summer, expect heat and bugs. That's normal here. I always recommend bringing:

• water and snacks (for you, not just the kids)

• wipes

• bug spray

• one small bribe item for each of your kids

• and don't wear shoes you hate walking in

Carmel moms: if you're pregnant and you swell in the heat, plan for it. Bring comfy shoes for walking between spots and swap into cute shoes only when we need them. You'll last longer and feel better.

Yes, a Maternity Photoshoot Can Still Feel Easy With Kids

Maternity photos can be a little tricky when you add little ones to the bunch. But as long as you're willing to go with the flow and trust that I've got all the tricks up my sleeve to wrangle even the wildest kids, we will get beautiful photos.

Mom was worried that her littlest would break down before we could finish. But I'm super used to shooting with littles in my maternity sessions. I kept her busy with easy games like follow the leader, peek-a-boo, and I Spy. And yes, lollipops between shots. Whatever works!

Big brother even found a stick he couldn't let go of. So I promised a photo with it if he put it down during pictures. BRIBES. That little deal saved us from a power struggle and kept the mood light. And yes, we did the promised stick photo at the end and it was adorable.

I told Abigail something I tell all my clients: some of my best shots as a maternity photographer in Carmel are the ones with connections and not necessarily everyone looking at the camera. Just living in the moment and being a family. When you stop chasing the "everyone look right here" photo, the session gets easier and the photos get better.

From Outfits to Posing: Making Maternity Portraits in Carmel Look Natural

Abigail wore a gorgeous lilac colored fitted dress that showed her bump perfectly. Her daughter Aubrey wore a sweet sun dress with an adorable bow in her hair. Her son Brian looked dapper in a button up shirt and slacks. Dad Sean wore the classic white button up and black pants. Against all the greens and tall grasses, it looked soft and clean without feeling overly styled.

For couple maternity photos, I keep directions simple because simple works:

• stand close together, hands on the bump

• looking at each other

• looking down at the belly

• walking and looking at their kids

If your partner says "I don't know what to do," that's normal. Give him something helpful to do instead of asking him to pose. Fix your hair. Adjust the dress. Help the kids. Put his hand on the bump. It relaxes him and it looks real.

Ready to Book Your Carmel, Indiana Maternity Photographer?

If you're searching for a maternity photographer near me in Carmel, Indiana who can give you photos like Abigail's session, I'd love to hear from you! Whether you're expecting your first or adding another little one to the family, let's get this time in your life documented before your newborn arrives!

For more information, check out my maternity photography details, pricing and packages.

Hi! I'm Shannon, founder of Dellarose Photography. I've been photographing beautiful mamas in the Carmel area for over 14 years and I'd love to do the same for you. I'm a member of PPA, Professional Photographers of America and have over 200 five star reviews on Google.