How to Plan for a Beautiful Maternity Photoshoot
Maternity Photos Are Magical
I have written before on how when I was having kids, Maternity Photos were not really a thing. So I count myself as very fortunate that I get to photograph pregnant women. Because I wasn’t able to document my own pregnancies with pictures, I want to be sure my clients are comfortable and get amazing photos. I truly believe that it is a special experience to document your pregnancy with images. To that end, I have a few suggestions for how to plan for a beautiful Maternity Session.
Timing is everything! I have found that week 30 to week 36 is just perfect for pregnancy photos.
Timing Your Maternity Photoshoot:
Loved the neutral wardrobe choice with the strong greens of the garden.
I feel like the best time to have Maternity Photos created is around 30-36 weeks. You want to have a nice round belly, but you don’t want that super uncomfortable swollen feeling you get at the end. I remember the last two weeks of my own pregnancies, I felt like even my nose was swollen and about to burst. Plus I wasn’t sleeping all that great at the end, so there’s that.
This gown Carina is wearing is one of my personal favorites in my wardrobe closet that is available for my clients.
Maternity Photoshoot Wardrobe Options:
I have several amazing Maternity gowns in my stash, but you can always get something on your own. There are several sites that sell really fabulous Maternity dresses and gowns that photograph unbelievably well. Some people opt for a simple T-Shirt/jeans outfit, which can be super cute too. I have even wrapped women in fabric. Whatever you decide, it is really important that you feel comfortable and like the look. Since the point of a Maternity Photo Session is to highlight your lovely round belly, you want something that hugs your curves, not a huge tent. I have found that V necks can be especially flattering at this time for women. And if you like your legs, go with something short!
I love that Danielle and Chris brought their regular clothes for this Fall Maternity Session.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:
I tell this to all my Portrait Photography clients, not just my Maternity Photography clients. When you are well hydrated, it is great for your skin.
Looking like a Goddess.
Rest Up Before Your Maternity Photoshoot:
Do try to get a good night’s sleep the night before your shoot. I know this can be difficult, but you will need your energy.
This is an in studio portrait we created with studio lights and a garland.
Other Family Members:
How cute is this little girl?
We like to include the Dads and the Littles. Just be sure everyone is rested and ready to cooperate! Bribes go a long way with the Preschoolers (and Dads too)! A non-messy snack and some water is a good idea. Always take the nap schedule into consideration if you want to include your younger family members. Cranky kids are generally uncooperative kids.
Relax:
I think all pregnant women look like goddesses and I really want them to look amazing in their Maternity Photos–I’ve got you! Just bring your smile!
Did you enjoy this post on Maternity Photos? You might also enjoy this article on Why You Should Have a Maternity Photo Session. Be sure to also check out our Newborn and Maternity Photo Gallery.
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Susan Blackburn is a Maternity and Newborn Photographer located in Saratoga Springs NY and serves clients in Upstate NY and the New York Metropolitan Area.