Isn’t it amazing what the female body is capable of doing in just 9 months? True, during pregnancy it can feel unending and a bit uncomfortable… but let’s not get into the nitty gritty of what it takes to grow a human. In the scheme of things the time is so short, and for me it’s such a blur. Having photos taken while you are pregnant to remember the fleeting season of life is a must. You only get one GOOD shot at a maternity session, how do you prepare for beautiful maternity photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE MATERNITY PHOTOS?
The best month for a maternity session varies from mama to mama. Usually, 32-36 weeks is ideal, about 7-8months. However, take into consideration how you are feeling, if it’s your first pregnancy, or if you have any health concerns to think of. You may want to do your session a bit earlier if you’ve had at least one or more pregnancies as they can come a bit earlier than first babies (each of my babies came one week earlier than the one before.) If you are pregnant with your first you may consider waiting until closer to 36 weeks if you want your bump to be more noticeable. Most importantly, how do you FEEL? With my third pregnancy I could barely walk or stand for more than 10 minutes at a time. I did my third pregnancy photos 8 weeks before my due date for this reason.
HOW TO CHOOSE A LOCATION FOR YOUR MATERNITY SESSION?
First and foremost as a photographer, I’m always looking for locations with stellar light. A bonus would be if the location offers variety. Truthfully there is no one best location for your maternity session. It all depends on the vision that you have for your photos. Urban, field, trees, in home, and waterside are all beautiful ideas. The beauty of it is, you can get creative and personal in your decision.
WHAT DO YOU WEAR FOR A MATERNITY SESSION?
When it comes to styling your maternity session start with mama, always. I like long flowy maxi dresses that add an element of movement. If a dress isn’t your jam, you can do what fits your style best. The most important thing is that your bump is highlighted. You can see more tips on styling a family session here.
A few of my favorite ideas other than flowy maxi dresses would be:
- A tea length form fitted dress with a kimono
- Denim maternity overalls
- Non-maternity jeans un-buttoned paired with a crop top
- A skirt with a cropped or tucked sweater
WHAT ARE THE BEST POSES FOR MATERNITY PHOTOS?
You are already BEAUTIFUL. It’s all about making you look flattering and highlighting the bump. Number one tip for the best way to pose in maternity photos is to keep your hand on your belly and to bend the knee closest to the camera. If you are doing photos with your family get close and interact with each other. Don’t be afraid to move in your photos. Movement adds a more natural touch and brings our your personality in photos.
PERSONALIZE YOUR MATERNITY PHOTOS.
Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. You can add personalization into any part of your maternity session from your outfit choice to the location choice. The most important part is that the session captures the essence of your pregnancy. AND don’t be afraid to show your bump off – because YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL and you are doing something amazing mama.
Are you ready to book your maternity photos?
Contact me today to book your maternity photos!
Have a peek at my maternity gallery!
Are you expecting and considering a maternity session?
I would love to photograph this special time for you and your family!
