Kimberley 
Expecting a baby is super exciting. I couldn’t be any more excited for you. However, the thought of planning for a maternity photo session, right before the baby is coming, can be overwhelming. But do not worry! I got you! Here are some tips and tricks on how to prepare for your maternity photo session.
One of the most exciting parts of expecting a baby is planning for the maternity photo session. This special time captures the joy and anticipation of becoming a parent, and it is something that you will cherish for years to come. But with so much to think about, the thought of preparing for a maternity photo session can be overwhelming. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get ready for your big day.
Finally, remember to relax and have fun! This is a special time in your life, so savor every moment. Your maternity photo session should be a joyful experience, so allow yourself to relax and enjoy it. These photos will be a cherished reminder of this special time in your life. So go ahead and strike a pose!
When to schedule your maternity photo session?
I highly recommend scheduling a maternity photo session between 32 and 36 weeks of the pregnancy. This will allow for a beautiful round and showing bump, but also for mom not to be extremely tired. Things can get really heavy those last few weeks of the pregnancy, so do not wait until the very end to schedule your maternity photos. I recommend booking and securing your photo session date when you are about 6 months pregnant. This will help make sure you get to choose a date that works great for both the people who will be in the photos and the photographer. Depending on the season, I can book up quite a few months in advance, therefore I recommend booking your session a few months in advance.
What to wear for your photo session
Next, decide what type of clothing you would like to wear. Maternity photos are all about celebrating your changing body, so choose something that makes you feel beautiful and confident. A flowing dress or skirt is always lovely, or you could go for a fitted shirt or dress that accentuates your curves. Whatever you choose, make sure you are comfortable in it and that it reflects your personal style.
If you are not sure what you want to wear, or if you do not want to purchase a maternity gown, because you will only wear it once, keep in mind that I have a maternity client closet. I offer maternity gowns in the sizes small through XXL. You will receive access to my maternity client closet after you’ve scheduled your photo session, where you can browse all dresses I have available for rent. The rental fee is $25,-. Here are some of the maternity gowns I have in my client closet.
Do not get your maternity gown too early!
I speak from experience when I say I have worked with expecting moms, who were so excited, that they ordered their maternity gown at 12 weeks, at the size they were wearing before pregnancy, and on the day of the photo session, they find out they don’t fit the maternity gown anymore. Though I have a maternity client closet available for my clients, I highly recommend not to purchase, or rent anything, until maybe a few weeks before your photo session date. This will allow you to see what fits comfortably and not have to stress at the very last minute.
Choosing a location
When choosing a location for your maternity photo session, think about a place that has special meaning to you and your partner. It could be the location where you first met, or a spot where you enjoy spending time together. As your photographer, I have a client portal where you can see all the locations I have photographed before, and you can picture yourself in those settings to get an idea of what would work best for you. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and relaxed in your surroundings so that your photos will truly capture the joy and anticipation of this special time.
The day of your photo session
On the day of your maternity photo session, there are a few things you can do to ensure that everything runs smoothly. First and foremost, make sure you are well-rested and hydrated. This will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during the shoot. Also, try to eat a light meal before your session to avoid feeling lightheaded or dizzy. Lastly, make sure to arrive at your chosen location a few minutes early to allow time for any last-minute touch-ups or adjustments.
During the session, my goal is to make you feel as comfortable as possible. I will guide you through poses and help you feel at ease in front of the camera. Remember, this is your special time, so have fun with it!
After your photo session
After your maternity photo session, you will receive a proof gallery within 1-2 weeks. This gallery will contain a selection of images from your session, and you can choose which ones you would like to have edited and included in your final gallery. Once you have made your selection, I will carefully edit and retouch your chosen images to ensure that they are of the highest quality.
Within another 1-2 weeks, you will receive your final gallery. This gallery will contain all of your edited photos in high resolution, which you can download and keep forever. You will have the option to print and display your images as you wish, or share them with loved ones who are eager to see your beautiful maternity photos.
In conclusion, preparing for your maternity photo session with your family involves choosing a location, timing, clothing, hair and makeup, involving your family, and relaxing and having fun. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create beautiful and meaningful images that you’ll treasure for years to come. If you’re interested in booking a maternity photo session with me, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I would love to hear from you!
One of my closest friends is due in May and she’s been talking about getting maternity photos done! I’ll be sending this her way, as the information is incredibly helpful. 🙂
Thank photos looks great and thanks a lot for sharing these tips! This is a very important moment of a mother’s life, and it’s great there’s something to be prepared, making it perfect 🙂
Such a smart way to document a special moment that only happens one time for each child. I still look at my photo shoot from 1988 and it as far more rudimentary than we do them today, but still just as special. These types of photos preserve memories.
I am a photographer, although I’ve never done maternity photos. I like the way you’ve composed your pictures and posed the subjects.
How I wish I had taken maternity photos – these are wonderful. Some great tips for expecting parents here to ensure they get the best photos possible. They will treasure the photos forever!
I never had a maternity session, and I wish I did! But they weren’t as popular back when my kids were born. These are great tips to prepare and make the most of your photo session.
I really wish I had this done! I love the flowing gowns.
Your maternity pics are so beautiful. It’s a great blog for anyone planning a maternity photo session. You have captured everything beautifully and in detail.
Maternity photos are so touching! I bet your tips on organizing a maternity session will help many new parents.
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This is such great advice! I feel like a maternity shoot might feel a little bit daunting if you’ve never done it before.
I never thought about what one should expect after the photo session! You get in your head and consumed with thinking about the shoot, but it’s good to know what to think about after the fact.