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Writer's pictureAshlie Bradley
Jan 63 min read

Capturing Pregnancy Milestones in Reading, PA: Photography Ideas for Every Trimester

Congratulations, you just found out you’re pregnant! Discovering you’re expecting for the first time is one of life’s most surreal and emotional moments. This exciting chapter is full of anticipation, and naturally, you want to celebrate and document every step along the way.


There’s no better way to honor this journey of your pregnancy in Reading, PA than by capturing the transformation of your baby bump through photography. By documenting each trimester, you’ll create a beautiful series of images that tell the story of your journey into motherhood. These keepsakes will not only serve as cherished memories for you but also for your future baby, who will one day love to look back on them too.



Reading, PA maternity photographer; Ashlie Bradley, sitting on bright green grass in front of a river under a willow tree with her husband. Their one-year-old daughter sits in between them as they each kiss the sides of her cheek. There is a sign in the foreground reading "expecting another great catch, reeling in another Bradley January 2018"
My second pregnancy announcement photo taken my Kays Photography


Selecting a Color Scheme and Backdrop


Take a moment to envision how you want to showcase these pregnancy photos in the long run. If you’re planning to display them in your home, choose colors that complement your decor. For instance, a neutral or monochromatic palette can bring a timeless elegance, while a vibrant color scheme can add personality and warmth.


When selecting a location in Reading, PA, let your style and personality guide you. A cozy corner of your home or a scenic outdoor spot—such as a favorite nature trail—can make the perfect backdrop. The key is consistency in your location to create a cohesive series of images.


For a classic touch, consider converting your images to black and white. This timeless aesthetic draws attention to the emotion and details of each shot.



A profile picture of a woman's baby bump. She is wearing a white chiffon open front maternity gown and is cradling her hands under her pregnant belly.


First Trimester: Embracing the Beginning


Outfit Ideas:

Choose an outfit that reflects your personal style. A fitted top or dress subtly showcases your budding baby bump, while a flowy dress or cozy sweater offers a relaxed and serene vibe. Whatever you pick, let it feel true to you.


Pose and Style Tips:

Focus on natural, gentle poses. Place your hands around your tummy to subtly highlight your pregnancy, and consider incorporating small props like an ultrasound photo or baby shoes to personalize the moment. These touches capture the excitement of this new chapter.



A pregnancy announcement picture. The husband and wife are hugging each other and kissing. The woman is holding a sologram in one hand and has her other hand wrapped around his neck. The husband is using one hand to touch her belly indicating that there is a baby inside.


Second Trimester: Showing Off the Growing Bump


Outfit Ideas:

By this stage, your baby bump is more prominent, making it the perfect time to highlight it with a fitted dress, such as a maxi dress, or a top that hugs your belly. Stick to the color scheme you’ve chosen to maintain a cohesive look across your photos.


Pose and Style Tips:

Profile shots work beautifully in the second trimester. Place one hand on top of your belly and the other underneath to accentuate your bump. For a flattering touch, bend the leg closest to the camera. Don’t forget to include your partner for a heartfelt family connection.



A maternity portrait taken at the Reading, Pa museum gardens. The women is standing on the stairs and is wearing a white form fitted gown with a black mermaid fair bottom. She has one hand rested on the top of her pregnant belly and the other hand is underneath her pregnant belly


Third Trimester: Celebrating Full Bloom


You’re in the home stretch! This is the ideal time to book professional maternity portraits in Reading, PA to capture your pregnancy. A professional session will capture the full beauty and power of your pregnancy. These photos can provide a confidence boost during a time when you may not always feel your best—remember, you are stunning, mama!


If professional portraits aren’t your preference, revisit the outfit and posing tips from your second trimester to continue creating a cohesive series.



A maternity portrait of a husband and wife. The woman is wearing a beige fluffy maternity gown and has one hand on the dress and the other resting on her husbands jaw. Her husband is wearing a white button up shirt and beige dress pants. He has one hand resting on her pregnant belly and the other hand behind her back. There is cream colored flowers framing them in the background.



Making Your Milestone Photos a Cohesive Series


  • Create a Bump Album: Combine all your trimester photos into a beautifully crafted photo album. This keepsake will tell the story of your pregnancy journey from start to finish.


  • Wall Art: Select one favorite photo from each trimester and print them in the same size. Display them side by side on your nursery wall or make a bold statement by showcasing them in your living room.



A living room space with a brown leather couch and a tall green plant sitting to the left of it. There are three maternity portraits hanging on the wall behind it


Why You Should Document Each Trimester of Your Reading, PA Pregnancy


Capturing the Transformation:

These photos allow you to look back and appreciate the incredible changes your body has undergone. You’re growing a tiny human—that’s nothing short of superhuman and deserves to be celebrated.


Creating a Family Heirloom:

By photographing each stage, you’re crafting a visual legacy for your family. These images will become cherished memories for your baby and generations to come.


An Emotional Keepsake:

Beyond the aesthetics, these photos capture the love, joy, and anticipation of this special time. They become irreplaceable treasures that hold the emotions of your journey into motherhood.



A husband and wife sitting on the floor together leaning into each other kissing. The wife has one hand resting on her pregnant belly and the other resting on her husbands knee.


Documenting your pregnancy milestones is about more than just taking photos—it’s about celebrating the magic of creating life. These moments deserve to be cherished, remembered, and shared, so embrace the journey and capture every beautiful step along the way.



A professional maternity photo of a pregnant woman outside surrounded by ferns. She is wearing a purple tulle gown with a white lace top. The front of the gown is open showing her swollen belly. She has one hand holding the side of her dress and the other cradling her belly.


Are you interested in having professional maternity portraits taken? Visit here for more information about my portrait experience in Reading, PA.




Reading, PA maternity photographer; Ashlie Bradley, hanging up a beige tulle ruffle maternity gown in her photography studio

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