Maternity and newborn photography is about so much more than beautiful images — it’s about safety, connection, and helping families feel seen in one of the most important seasons of their lives. From intentional posing that helps expecting moms feel radiant to embracing the chaos that toddlers bring, these 10 tips will guide you toward sessions that are confident, creative, and client-centered. And if you’re ready to go deeper, my course Parenthood in Focus: A Maternity and Newborn Course gives you the behind-the-scenes insight, safety training, and real client sessions you need to take your work to the next level.

What if I told you that no matter where you are—an uninspiring office building, a cluttered home, or even a random gas station in the middle of nowhere—you can create breathtaking photos? The secret lies in your ability to harness and shape light.

As a family photographer, your passion lies in capturing special moments and creating beautiful memories for your clients. But how do you ensure that potential clients find your work in a crowded online space? That’s where SEO—Search Engine Optimization—comes into play. If you’re new to SEO, don’t worry! This guide is here to help you understand what SEO is, what it isn’t, and how you can start implementing some simple strategies today.

While mini sessions can be challenging, they’re also one of the best ways to book clients in bulk, generate a buzz, and yes, make more money in less time. The trick is knowing how to make them work for you, instead of running yourself into the ground. Let’s talk about a few key tips to get you started.

In this post get to know photographer, Melissa Ortendahl, and get a special free behind the scenes video on how to make ANY location and ANY lighting work for photos!