Preparing for a Maternity Photo Session: Tips and Tricks
Expecting a baby is a beautiful and exciting time, and a maternity photo session can capture these special moments forever. However, preparing for the shoot can be nerve-wracking. You want to look and feel your best, but you may not know where to start. In this post, we'll provide tips and advice on how to prepare for a maternity photo session.
1- Schedule your maternity session between 31 and 36 weeks
Timing is an important factor when it comes to maternity sessions, as you don't want to wait too long and end up feeling rushed. Ideally, you should plan your session between 31 and 36 weeks, to ensure that your bump is at its most photogenic, with plenty of time for the images to be shot and edited. By this stage, most of the uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy will have subsided, allowing you to get the most out of your session. Plus, this gives you enough time to plan out the perfect look for the occasion, choosing any props and outfits that you would like in the pictures. From coordinating with your partner to picking out the perfect accessories, a maternity session is a great way to document this special time in your life.
2- Take the time to pick the right outfit for the maternity shoot.
The reason you're booking this maternity photo session is to show off that beautiful bump, so make sure to wear colours that will show it off. 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, maternity maxi dresses are all choices I would recommend.
If your husband or your other children will be in the photos, it’s important that your outfits look coordinated. Coordinated doesn’t mean matchy-matchy either, it just means that each outfit should complement the others.
In terms of colours, you can visit my what to wear guide.
3- Get your hair and makeup done professionally
If possible, it will help you feel so much more confident and let’s be real you deserve that pampering anyway!
4- Trust your photographer for poses
It's important to trust your photographer for their expertise regarding poses. I will be able to direct you to comfortable and flattering poses that will look great in photos. Poses can range from close-up shots of your baby bump to more traditional poses with the family, to solo pictures of yourself. Also, expect lots of movement as it is creates more natural photos. Ask questions and share any ideas you have, but overall be open to your photographer's guidance and trust their vision – they know how to capture the most beautiful and memorable images.
5- Bring Along Sentimental Items
Though no two sessions will look the same, one suggestion to consider when prepping for a maternity session is to bring along any sentimental items or props that have special significance to the mom-to-be and her family. These items can range from classic pieces of jewelry that have been passed down through generations, to adorable stuffed animals and other things that have special meaning. A maternity session might also include a toy that will belong to the new baby, like a teddy bear or a wooden baby toy. These items can evoke emotional memories or have traditional connections that can make the maternity session extra special and meaningful.
My wife and I did a photo shoot with Sarah Dja photography recently and all I can is WOW! Thank you so much for these beautiful pictures and memories that we will cherish for our whole life. Sarah and her team are very professional and were very easy to talk to. From the get-go you feel very comfortable. Thank you again Sarah for this amazing experience!
6- Relax and enjoy the moment
Make your maternity session a date night, make reservation in a nice restaurant and enjoy the experience. With the arrival of your new baby, date nights will be harder to plan and have!
A maternity photo session can be a fun and memorable experience. By choosing the right clothing and accessories, getting professional hair and makeup done, practicing poses and facial expressions, and focusing on relaxing and enjoying the moment, you can ensure that your photos are beautiful and meaningful. So, take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy the experience. Your pregnancy is a special time worth cherishing.