If you are expecting a baby, congratulations! You may have a lot of things to take care of already, and getting a professional photography may not be your top priority. However, it is highly recommended to immortalize this special time in your life through a photograph. You deserve to cherish this extraordinary moment, celebrate with your loved ones, and forever remember the joy of welcoming a new member into your family.
If you've already made the decision to proceed with your pregnancy photos, simply scroll down to discover the Top Tips on how to get ready for your maternity photo shoot:
When to book your maternity photoshoot?
If you are new to maternity portrait sessions, you might be uncertain about how to get ready or how to anticipate. It is advisable to schedule your session sooner rather than later. Ideally, aim to schedule your maternity session between 20-25 weeks of pregnancy to secure your slot. If you have a particular photographer in mind, it is crucial to secure your booking as soon as you can to ensure their availability.
Photo session in the third trimester...
For the best outcome, it is advisable to plan your maternity photoshoot for the third trimester, ideally between 28 and 32 weeks. This timeframe allows for a lovely display of your baby bump while still enabling you to move comfortably and pose for the camera. While it is feasible to have your maternity session later in the pregnancy, you might face challenges with posing and standing for prolonged periods.
Including family members.
You are more than welcome to have your family members join you at your maternity session, especially if you wish to include your spouse or other children. However, it's important to consider that having additional people present can be distracting and may affect your comfort in front of the camera. It's best to refrain from inviting friends and extended family members. If you plan to involve your older children in the session, it's advisable to arrange for someone to pick them up once they are done. This way, they won't have to wait through all the individual photos of you, and you won't have to worry about keeping them calm or entertained.
What to wear?
Before your session, carefully select your outfits to ensure they fit well and reflect the look you desire, whether you prefer a casual style with jeans and a blouse, a flowing maternity dress, or a combination of both. Opt for fitted clothing to highlight your belly and choose stretchy fabrics for comfort. Avoid elastic materials that may create indents or red marks, aiming for a naturally smooth appearance.
Also think about your loved one's outfit as well. Try to compliment each other, but do not match.
Bring your sentimental items.
Consider bringing small sentimental items to the session that we can incorporate into the photos. This could include cute booties, toys, or your ultrasound picture. You might also bring a cherished locket or blanket. Feel free to bring these items to the photoshoot.
Consider to have your hair and makeup done for the photo session.
If you’re unsure how to have your hair and makeup done, think about what you want your photos to look like. If you’re going for a more casual look, a loose and simple hairstyle and natural makeup may be the perfect option. But if you want your images to look a little more formal, don’t be afraid to go dramatic with an elegant look.
Don't stress out!
While it may be challenging, try your best to stay calm and not stress about your session. Your photographer will guide you through each pose and position. Just focus on being your authentic, lovely self!
If you would like to book in for a full maternity session, all the details can be found on my Maternity Photography page.