Look and Feel Amazing at Your Maternity Photography Session!

1.  Don't Wait Too Long - I can't stress this tip enough!  Don't wait too long to book your maternity photo shoot.  I can't tell you how many people contact me last minute (37/38/39/40 weeks) and then end up having their baby earlier than their due date and missing out on pregnancy photos.  You just never know when baby will decide to arrive!  The best time for photos is between 30 and 36 weeks when you have a nice round belly but hopefully are not feeling too uncomfortable to move around easily.

2. Communication With Your Photographer - Talk to your photographer before your session either in person, by phone, or by e-mail.  Make sure they know what type of images you are looking for and make sure it's a match to the photographer's style.  Talk about images you like and dislike, discuss props you are thinking of bringing, discuss if you want to do nude, partially nude, or fully covered photos.  Making sure everyone has the same expectations makes the day of the photo shoot so much more comfortable and relaxed.

3. Location Choice - Think about where you would like to have your pregnancy photographs taken.  Outdoor locations, studio pictures, or a session in your own home are all amazing choices.  Also consider the weather in your area.  If you are having a winter baby and live in cold climate you may need to be creative if you want to have outdoor photos done (for example use an indoor botanical garden or greenhouse or dress warmly for outdoor photos).

4. Clothing Choices - Think about your clothing at least several weeks before your maternity photo shoot.  Try things on, see what styles and colors make you feel beautiful.  There's nothing worse than trying to figure this out right before you have to leave for photos.  Make sure you are comfortable.  

I suggest bringing several outfits and ask your photographer if they have pregnancy dresses/gowns available for you to use.  Photographers usually have gowns specifically tailored to be flattering and comfortable for the pregnant figure.

If you will be having maternity photographs done at an outdoor location be sure to dress for the weather and wear appropriate shoes.

5. Wear Appropriate Undergarments - This is something people don't think about but it is so important. Especially, if you are going to be wearing a white or sheer dress/gown to show off your belly.  Choose nude or neutral toned underwear.  I've had clients come with hot pink bras and underwear and there is no way to stop that showing through a white gown.  Photoshop can only do so much!

6. Understand How Your Partner Feels About Being Photographed -  A lot of spouses/partners don't feel comfortable being photographed.  If your partner is a little uncomfortable your photographer can work with that.  They will try to keep the mood light and get pictures with your partner quickly.  Then he/she can take a break while the focus is on you.  

That being said...if your partner is completely against having photos done and is extremely negative about the process...then leave them at home.  Nothing can ruin a photo shoot faster than someone who does not want to be there.  There's nothing wrong with coming solo and getting beautiful pictures of you!  Come solo, be pampered, and rock your session!

7. Include Your Children - It's always great to include your older children in your maternity photo shoot.  It's amazing to capture these special moments with your child before the arrival of your little one.  Some things that make it easier to include children are: planning around nap times, bring snacks, and sometimes bribes are needed.  Go with the flow, relax, and have fun!

8. Bring Snacks - No explanation needed!  You are pregnant; you will be doing a fair amount of movement through posing and walking around (if outside).  You will get hungry, so please bring something to snack on.

9. Relax and Have Enough Time for the Photos - Think of your maternity photo session as a way to pamper yourself before your baby arrives.  Consider having professional hair and makeup done before your session so you can feel at your most beautiful without the stress.  Don't plan a whole bunch of other activities before or after the shoot.  The more relaxed you are the more comfortable and amazing you will look in the photos.

10. Select Your Maternity Photos Before the Baby Arrives - If you have chosen a photography package that allows you to select your images...choose them before your baby arrives.  While you are still pregnant you have a bit of time to relax and make your selections before the stress of a newborn demanding your attention.  You can also can use your pregnancy pictures for decor at your for baby shower or as decoration for the baby's nursery.

Hope these tips help!  Interested in booking a maternity session?  I'd love to chat to help you book a session or answer any questions.  Contact me!

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Copyright for these photographs belongs solely to Suzie Broadbent. Images may not be copied, downloaded, or used in any way without the express, written permission of the photographer.