Chicago Maternity Photography
Celebrating the magic of creation.
Intimate, artful, and completely customized to you. Maternity sessions designed to slow down the season, honor what your body is doing, and leave you with images you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
✦ Studio & Outdoor Sessions
✦ 30+ Edited Images
✦ Partners & Siblings Welcome
✦ Sweet Spot: 30–34 Weeks
✦ Le Loft Studio, Wicker Park
✦ Bundle Packages Available
The Experience
Your space to feel beautiful and seen.
Soak in the power of your body and your spirit with a maternity photoshoot — an experience designed for you. This is your space to feel beautiful, even on the days you don’t feel like yourself, and to be fully seen in the middle of a season that’s doing the most.
If you’re hesitant, you’re not alone. Pregnancy can feel tender, exhausting, and emotional. A maternity session isn’t about performing or posing perfectly — it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with your partner, and honoring what your body is creating.
The kind of experience that can feel surprisingly grounding — and leave you walking away a little more recharged than when you arrived.
What to Expect
From first hello to your gallery.
01
Reach Out
Send me a message or book a 15-minute call. We’ll talk through your vision, timing, style preferences, and any questions you have.
02
Plan the Details
I’ll help you nail down timing, location, wardrobe, and whether to bring your partner, kids, or pets. No detail is too small.
03
Your Session
I guide you through every pose — you don’t need to know what to do. The session is unhurried, warm, and completely in your comfort zone.
04
Your Gallery
Within 10 days, you’ll receive a private online gallery of 30+ retouched images — ready to download, print, and frame.
Studio & Outdoors
Every setting is beautifully lit.
My studio — Le Loft — is located at North and Western in Wicker Park, with over 4,000 sq ft of gorgeous natural light. It’s perfect for intimate, editorial, and bump-out maternity sessions in a private, comfortable space.
Prefer the outdoors? Chicago has incredible backdrops — from golden lakefront light to lush parks that feel miles from the city. During our consultation, I’ll match you with the perfect location for your vision and style.
Common Questions
Questions, answered.
Everything you need to know before booking your maternity session.
Which maternity photography style is right for me?
Maternity photography can range from intimate boudoir-style sessions to natural, candid outdoor imagery. Every session is completely customized to your taste and comfort level. We’ll chat before your session to discuss what you’re looking for and ensure you feel confident going in.
When should I come in for my maternity session?
The sweet spot is between 30 and 34 weeks — ideally, when you have a nice popped bump with minimal swelling. All pregnancies are different: if you’re popping early (common with second or third-time moms) or late (common with longer torsos), we’ll adjust accordingly.
What should I wear for maternity photos?
Let the bump take front and center. Form-fitting dresses, button-down shirts open at the waist, activewear sets, and robes all photograph beautifully. I’m happy to send links to options I’ve seen work well — just ask. Most importantly: stay true to yourself and your style.
Can I bring my partner, kids, or pet?
Absolutely. Partners are a huge part of the experience — many clients have their S.O. join for the last 15–30 minutes. Older siblings and pets are welcome too. I just ask that if they’re not in every shot, someone else comes along to help supervise during those moments.
How many images will I receive, and when?
Your session includes at least 30 images. I’ll have them uploaded to a private online gallery within 10 days of your session, where you can view and download them. Each image receives complimentary retouching for blemishes, bruises, and garment details.
I want to go bump-out — is that okay?
Completely. You’re in a safe, private space. I’ve worked with hundreds of women over the last decade and have a lot of practice directing poses that flatter every shape and size. Images remain private by default unless you give specific permission for use.
Do you offer maternity + newborn bundles?
Yes! You can bundle two, three, or four sessions in a single year. The most popular option is maternity + newborn + one milestone mini (perfect for holiday cards when baby is sitting or walking). Ask me about bundle pricing when you reach out.
Why Rife Ponce
Maternity photography that feels different by design.
A Warm, Guided Experience
You don’t need to know how to pose. I guide you through every moment so the session feels comfortable, easy, and genuinely enjoyable.
Fully Customized to You
From intimate boudoir-style to natural outdoor sessions, the style, setting, and feel of your session is shaped entirely around your personality and comfort.
Beauty and Real Life Together
My work blends editorial polish with honest emotion. Your photos will feel timeless and true — not overproduced or stiff.
A Private, Beautiful Studio
Le Loft in Wicker Park offers 4,000+ sq ft of natural light in a completely private setting — ideal for sessions that require space, comfort, and discretion.
Helpful Resources
Keep reading.
More articles to help you plan, prepare, and feel great about your maternity session.
Let’s Connect
Ready to book? I can’t wait.
Schedule a quick 15-minute call — or just send a message. Either works perfectly. No pressure, no long forms.
Interested in maternity and newborn bundles? Learn more here.