As an expecting parents, you’re ecstatic about your growing baby… and not to mention the growing bump! There’s no better way to commemorate this monumental moment in your life, than with a professional maternity portrait session. Maternity photography not only captures your beautiful round baby belly, but also the love and emotions that accompany the final weeks of your pregnancy. You will always be able look back at these photos and remember the joy and anticipation you felt, knowing you were about to meet your new baby.
I’ve worked with plenty of Moms who are excited to have their maternity portraits taken, but arrive a little apprehensive because they don’t know what to expect. For that reason, I’ve decided to look at how you can come feeling prepared, confident, and beautiful for your maternity portrait session.
When it comes to outfits, there are a few tips that can help you feel all the more beautiful and ready for the session. Again, the final choice is yours to make, but I would highly recommend that you make comfort a key factor in any outfit that you choose.
No matter how much you might love having your photo taken, or how gorgeous you look on the day of the session, wearing clothes that are a little too tight, or restrict your movement a little too much, will make you uncomfortable. That discomfort tends to show up through the pictures. Outfits that are comfy and easy to move around in are a huge plus.
Choosing the right clothes for the shoot
Of course, as it’s a maternity shoot, I recommend choosing clothes and accessories that show off the bump, as well. Stretchy fabrics that cling to your belly, dresses belted beneath the bust, and long flowy maternity maxi dresses photograph well.
Take the time to pick the right outfit for the maternity shoot. Be comfortable! But make sure that your clothing doesn’t detract from your tummy’s shape and your natural glow. Avoid large, bold patterns or clothing that is too loose. Empire waists, drawstrings, flowing tops and wrap dresses are perfect for enhancing your shape. I’ve put together a pinterest board of ideas.
Come to the shoot feeling your best
I like to recommend that my clients think about arranging their shoot for the same day as a regular hair appointment. Few things make us feel as confident and as beautiful as getting freshly styled, and that confidence can shine through in the portraits, helping you feel a lot more comfortable with the session and allowing you to really get into it.
An indulgent pamper session before the shoot can have much of the same effect. Whether it’s a manicure, a pedicure, or a session with your local makeup artist, do what you can to get you in the mood for feeling gorgeous.
Arrange a dinner date after the session
Your maternity portrait session is an occasion worth celebrating. It’s a day dedicated to capturing a huge moment in any woman’s life, and most of my clients will agree that it’s super fun, as well. So, why not enjoy a dinner date with a significant other, to make the day feel extra special.
Relax and know that you’re in good hands
If you’ve never arranged a professional photoshoot before, or you simply forget how it went the last time, you might not know what to expect from the day. Even if that’s the case, it’s no need to worry. Choosing the right photographer means that you have a lot less to worry about. Make sure you choose one you can feel confident in by taking a good look at their past work, and making sure they have the style and quality you’re looking for.
I’ve photographed a lot of bumps throughout my career. I know how to position subjects, how to frame shots, how to light, and how to work with women of all body shapes and sizes to help them feel comfortable and beautiful for the shot. It’s your big day, so I’ll make sure to use all my years of experience and training to ensure you feel confident, and that the photos come out looking fantastic.
Include your significant other and children, to capture those special memories.
Schedule your maternity portrait session today!
Schedule your session between 31 – 36 weeks, as it’s the ideal time to show off the beautiful baby bump.
With the tips above, hopefully you’re ready to really shine for the camera, and to capture a moment that you will want to remember for the rest of your life.
You can arrange for the maternity shoot alone, or it can be the first in a series of four sessions, as part of my Baby’s First Year Collection.
Interested in scheduling your maternity portrait session? Get in touch, and let’s chat here.