A quiet embrace between mother and child through a steamy glass shower door, photographed during an in-home session.

There’s something about water that invites us to let go. It softens the edges, quiets the noise, and brings us right back to presence, with ourselves, with our children, with the love that lives between us.

When I think about where the most honest, unfiltered moments happen between a mother and her child, the bath or shower often comes to mind. These sessions aren’t just about the photos, they’re about the feeling. The closeness. The way time seems to slow as you hold your baby to your chest, skin to skin, with warm water running over you both.

But I also know this kind of session can feel new. A little different. And that’s exactly why it’s so powerful. So if you’re wondering how to prepare, here are a few gentle suggestions to help you feel grounded and ready.

What to Wear (Or Not Wear)

These sessions are deeply personal, and what you wear (or don’t wear) should reflect what feels right to you.

Some mothers choose to go nude, leaning fully into the intimacy of the moment. Others feel more comfortable with a layer of softness, and that’s beautiful too. If you want to wear something, I recommend sheer or lightweight fabrics in neutral or muted tones. A nude-toned bralette, a loose cotton tank, or a gauzy dress can add lovely texture while keeping the focus on the connection, not the outfit.

For your little one, birthday suits are perfectly welcome, especially for babies and toddlers. Older kids can wear simple undies if that makes them feel more at ease. Plain, neutral fabrics tend to photograph best and keep the feeling of the session soft and timeless.

Soft detail of a mother’s pregnant belly surrounded by floating flowers in the bath. A gentle maternity moment captured on film.

Simple Add-Ons for Texture + Fun

A few thoughtful additions can help bring a little playfulness or beauty into the space. Flower petals floating on the water, a gentle bubble bath, or even bath-safe toys that your child loves can add layers of interest and also keep them engaged throughout the session.

If you’d like to include any of these, let’s talk about it ahead of time so we can plan for the best setup. I’ll always work with you to make sure everything feels aligned with your vision.

Preparing Your Energy

More than anything else, the energy you bring into your session shapes the experience. These aren’t photos you can force. They’re rooted in presence. In tenderness. In trust.

Give yourself extra time the morning of your session. Move slowly. Cuddle a little longer. Let the day stretch out, so there’s space for softness. When you arrive calm and open, your child feels that. And from there, the moments unfold naturally.

Say yes to the mess. Say yes to the splashes. Say yes to holding your baby close and letting the water blur the rest of the world for a little while. The more you let go, the more you’ll get to feel your photos, not just see them.