Cosy Christmas Maternity Photoshoot Inspiration in Derbyshire and Leicestershire
There is something ridiculously magical about bump photos at Christmas time. Maybe it is the fairy lights, maybe it is the endless hot chocolates, maybe it is the fact that December already feels a bit nostalgic. Either way, if you are pregnant over the festive season, it is the perfect excuse to get some photographs that feel warm, cosy, and a little bit twinkly.
This particular shoot was in Leicestershire, but the ideas work just as well in Derby, Nottingham, or anywhere across the East Midlands. The beauty of Christmas is that it creates its own backdrop. You really do not need much more than your tree, a few fairy lights, and the people you love.
Photos in Christmas Pyjamas
If you cannot wear matching pyjamas for a maternity shoot in December, when can you? Honestly, festive PJs are always a win. Think tartan sets, deep reds, or even silly Christmas jumpers if that feels more “you.”
The photos never look staged because you are just hanging out on the sofa, mug of hot chocolate in hand, showing off the bump without even trying.
Tip: If you already have little ones, get everyone in their pyjamas. It is chaos, but it makes the sweetest photographs (and doubles up nicely if you want to send out Christmas cards).
Photos Beside the Christmas Tree
The glow of fairy lights is basically a free filter. Stand beside the tree and suddenly everything feels golden and magical. These are the photographs you look back on and instantly remember the season.
You can go classic, hand on bump, profile shot, or just plonk yourself down cross-legged in front of the tree. Both work, and both feel festive without trying too hard.
Tip: keep a few decorations handy for detail shots. The bauble your mum bought for your first Christmas together? The paper angel your eldest made at school? These tiny things are what make the photos feel like yours.
Photos by the Fire
If you are lucky enough to have a fire, use it. Nothing says cosy quite like sitting on a rug in front of the flames with fluffy socks and an oversized jumper. Even if the fire is not lit, a decorated mantle makes a beautiful frame.
Tip: Oversized shirts or sweaters are perfect here. They fall really nicely over a bump and keep the mood casual. A chunky cardigan never hurt anyone either.
What to Wear for a Christmas Maternity Session
Clothes should feel like you. The last thing I want is to photograph you in something you would never normally wear, just because you thought it was “right” for photos. That said, there are some things that really do work well on camera:
An oversized jumper or shirt with cosy socks… effortless, flattering, and comfy.
Pyjamas (obviously).
A simple dress in cream, beige, or navy because it looks gorgeous against Christmas colours.
A cardigan layered over leggings or a dress.
Textures are your best friend: knits, cotton, flowy fabrics. Basically, anything you can move around in without feeling awkward.
Final Thoughts
A Christmas maternity session is not about looking perfect. It is about capturing how this season feels for you right now. The tree lights, the messy wrapping paper, the excitement of waiting for your baby. These are the little details that matter.
If you are expecting around Christmas and want to book a cosy, festive maternity session, I would love to hear from you. Derbyshire, Leicestershire, or anywhere nearby; let me make photos that feel like your Christmas story.
👉 While you are here, have a look at my guide on how to prepare your home for a family photo session.
👉 Or check out some more Derbyshire maternity photographs here!
More real maternity features:
