What is the Average Cost of a Maternity Photographer in New York?
As a boudoir and portrait photographer in New York, one of the most common questions I hear from expecting moms is, “How much does a maternity photoshoot cost?” It’s an important question, because planning maternity photos is not just about capturing memories—it’s also about setting a budget and knowing what you’ll get for your investment.
Living and working in New York, I’ve seen how prices can vary a lot depending on style, experience, and the kind of session you want. Some photographers offer short and simple packages, while others create luxury experiences with professional makeup, custom gowns, and albums you’ll keep forever. The average cost of a maternity photographer in New York really depends on what you’re looking for.
Let me share my perspective as someone who works in this field every day.
Why Maternity Photography Costs What It Does
First, let’s talk about why there’s such a range in prices. Maternity photography isn’t just snapping pictures—it’s an art form that takes time, skill, and planning. Photographers invest in professional cameras, lighting, editing software, and sometimes studios. Many of us also provide gowns, lingerie, or accessories to make clients feel amazing during the shoot.
The cost also covers our time—not just the hour or two of shooting, but also planning, editing, and sometimes even guiding clients on hair, makeup, and styling. A single session can mean many hours of work behind the scenes.
The Average Price Range in New York
From my experience, here’s what you can usually expect when looking for a maternity photographer in New York:
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Budget Photographers: $200–$400
These are often newer photographers who may offer shorter sessions with a small number of edited images. They may not have a studio, but they can meet in a park or your home. -
Mid-Range Photographers: $500–$1,000
This is the most common range. For this price, you can expect a one- to two-hour session, multiple outfit changes, a set number of high-quality edited images, and sometimes access to maternity gowns. Many photographers in this range also offer both indoor and outdoor options. -
Luxury Photographers: $1,200–$3,000+
These photographers often specialize in high-end experiences. They may provide professional hair and makeup, a full wardrobe, a styled studio, and heirloom-quality albums or wall art. This type of session is more of an experience than just a photoshoot—it’s designed to pamper you and create artwork you’ll treasure forever.
On average, most expecting moms in New York spend between $600 and $1,200 on maternity photography.
Factors That Affect the Price
There are a few things that influence where a photographer’s pricing falls:
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Experience and Style – A seasoned photographer with a signature style will usually charge more. You’re paying not only for their time but for their creative vision.
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Location – A simple shoot in Central Park may cost less than a studio session with custom lighting setups. Renting space in New York can also raise prices.
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Products – Digital images cost less than physical albums, canvases, or framed wall art. Packages with printed keepsakes tend to be on the higher end.
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Session Length – Mini sessions are shorter and cheaper, while full sessions with multiple outfit changes and settings will cost more.
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Extras – Some photographers include professional hair and makeup, wardrobe access, or even boudoir-style maternity photos. These extras raise the price but also create a more luxurious experience.
Why I Believe It’s Worth the Investment
I know it can feel like a lot of money, especially when you’re already preparing for a baby. But maternity photos are one of those investments that grow more valuable over time. The pregnancy stage is short, and once it’s over, you can’t get it back.
Years from now, you’ll look at those photos and remember how you felt carrying your child. Your child will see them too, and it becomes part of your family’s story. That’s why so many moms decide it’s worth paying a little more for a photographer whose work they love and trust.
A Personal Story
I’ll never forget a client I worked with last fall. She was around 32 weeks pregnant and booked a full maternity session in my studio. She told me at first she wasn’t sure about the price—it was close to $1,000—but once she saw the final images, she cried.
She said, “I didn’t even recognize myself in the best way. You made me feel so beautiful at a time when I wasn’t feeling like it.”
Her album now sits in her living room, and she told me she looks at it every week to remind herself of how strong and radiant she was. To me, that’s priceless.
Budgeting for Your Photoshoot
If you’re planning maternity photos in New York, here are my tips for budgeting:
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Book Early – Most photographers recommend booking between your second and early third trimester. This way you get your preferred photographer and have time to save.
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Decide What’s Important – Do you want just digital images, or do you dream of a printed album? Knowing this helps you plan your budget.
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Consider Bundles – Some photographers offer maternity + newborn packages at a discounted rate. If you already know you want newborn photos, this can save money.
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Ask About Payment Plans – Many photographers, myself included, allow clients to split payments, making it easier to manage.
Why New York is Special for Maternity Photos
New York adds its own charm to maternity photography. From the cherry blossoms in Central Park to the skyline views from Brooklyn, every session can feel unique. Of course, living here also means higher costs—rent, studio space, and permits can make New York prices a little higher than other places. But the results are unforgettable.
When you hire a maternity photographer in New York, you’re not just paying for photos—you’re paying for the experience of capturing your story in one of the most iconic cities in the world.
My Final Thoughts
So, what is the average cost of a maternity photographer in New York? Most moms spend $600 to $1,200, depending on what kind of session and products they want. You can find lower-cost options, and you can also invest in luxury sessions that cost much more.
The most important thing is to choose a photographer whose work you love and who makes you feel comfortable. Price matters, but so does trust, style, and connection. After all, these photos will be with you for a lifetime.
Whenever I look back at the maternity sessions I’ve done, I always feel honored. It’s not just about the money—it’s about helping women see the beauty in themselves during one of the most transformative times in life. And to me, that’s the true value of maternity photography in New York.
Contact us:
Boudoir Photography by Your Hollywood Portrait
247 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
646-209-8198
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