Gearing up for your first maternity photoshoot can be nerve-wracking– After all, preparing for your little one to enter the world is enough of an undertaking on its own. Luckily, with a little preparation, your maternity photography session is bound to be a rewarding, beautiful experience that you’ll look back on and cherish for years to come.
Here are some quick guidelines to keep in mind so that you can look and feel your best during your photoshoot.
1. Timing is Everything for a Maternity Photoshoot
Timing is essential with every photo shoot, but especially when you have a bundle of joy on the way. While it’s key to book your maternity photoshoot session as soon as possible, note that you’ll probably be shooting within the 30 – 34 week range of pregnancy. With that in mind, every woman is different, so it’s entirely possible that your ideal date may shift, especially if you’re having twins.
2. Consider Your Unique Beauty
Pregnancy is one of the most precious times in a woman’s life. While your shoot is crafted to celebrate the beginning of your baby’s life, it’s also a time to celebrate you! Take time to consider what makes you truly unique, and most importantly, what makes you feel the most beautiful. What colors, fabrics, and clothing (or none at all) help capture your style? These are all factors you’ll want to take into consideration and communicate prior to your shoot.
3. Communicate With Your Photographer
In order to make sure that your maternity photoshoot is a success, you’ll need to communicate clearly and openly with your photographer. Regardless of how small a preference may be, it’s wise to speak your opinions. After all, this is an extremely precious time, and any great photographer understands the importance of allowing you to incorporate some of your creative voice into the shoot itself.
In preparation of your shoot, voice any concerns (big or small) with your photographer, but also speak to what you’re most excited about– Is there a particular pose that you’re hoping to recreate? Is there a specific set design that you love? What makes you feel the most beautiful? Any and all details will make it easier for your photographer to direct the shoot in a way that showcases your beauty and strength.
4. Decide Whether Your Maternity Photoshoot Will Be Solo
For many expectant mothers, pregnancy is a journey that involves many. In which case, you’ll want to consider bringing a future sibling, partner, or even a parent to the photoshoot. Discuss your plans for guests ahead of time to see what makes the most sense for the studio or selected location. If you do have a plus one, make sure they’re just as prepared for your maternity session as you are. If you don’t have anyone in mind– Don’t worry! Solo sessions can be just as beautiful.
5. Find an Outfit That’s Fitting
One of the most important aspects of any photoshoot is your wardrobe, and maternity photoshoots are no exception to the rule. You’ll want to work with your photographer to develop a set of outfits that makes you feel effortlessly beautiful while still feeling comfortable. Keep in mind that this doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to go with a traditional gown or style. Every mother is different, so find some options that speak to you!
I also have a collection of designer maternity dresses ranging from S-L that are designed to flatter your physique whilst feeling breathable and roomy while posing. These gorgeous gowns can be tried on ahead of time to ensure that they’re a great fit for your shoot. You can also go fairly minimal with a nude or semi-nude shoot. In these sessions, the difference is in the details– Whether that’s gorgeous styling or a stunning posing, small flairs can make a big difference.
6. Gather Any Important Momentos
Your photoshoot should be individualized to you, so it’s a good idea to bring along any important momentos that might add some sentimental value to your collection. Whether that’s a sonogram, your favorite toy as a child, or a baby blanket, bringing along a handful of meaningful items can help communicate your story. Discuss what you plan to bring ahead of time so that you can incorporate these items appropriately.
7. Indoor or Outdoors Maternity Photoshoot?
Location is key to setting the scene for your photoshoot. Depending on your style, it may make sense to set up an outdoor maternity shoot for a candid, natural, relaxing setting. With that in mind, in-studio photos can be just as stunning if not more captivating with the creative use of lighting, wardrobe, props and set designs, not to mention may be more comfortable for some expectant mothers. In-studio sessions have the flexibility of creating a variety of different backdrops and setups without the need of having to walk and travel from one location to the next. are Speak with your photographer about your ideas surrounding settings particular poses and wardrobe ideas to have a better idea if an outdoor or in-studio session if right for you.
8. Pamper Yourself Before The Big Day
As an expectant mother, you likely have an endless list of tasks to complete before your bundle of joy enters into the world. You owe it to yourself to take a break, especially following up to your photoshoot. The day before the shoot, try to do anything you can to relax and recharge your body. You’ll want to get good sleep, stay hydrated, and do anything else that makes you feel fabulous. Take some time to reflect on your pregnancy and celebrate yourself for the strong, beautiful woman that you are. Giving yourself time to cool down before the photo shoot will help your photos feel effortless.
9. Remember To Have Fun!
At the end of the day, remember that your maternity photoshoot is an opportunity to capture your baby’s beginnings and your one-of-a-kind beauty along the way. A set of stunning photos celebrates your strength throughout the pregnancy process and will serve as a collection of cherished memories long after your baby has arrived. While it’s easy to get caught up in the fine details of the big day, know that you can trust your photographer fully to ensure that you get gorgeous, everlasting images. The best way to prepare for your photo shoot is to communicate with your maternity photographer as much as possible ahead of time and have fun on set. Enjoy creating lifelong memories!
XS Sharon Photography is a Vancouver based luxury photographer specializing in magazine-styled maternity, motherhood and portrait photography. Inspired by fashion and fine art, she strives to create more than just a photo but a timeless work of art for her clients. Contact me today to find out more about my maternity photography services and how I can help create portraits of you during an extremely special and intimate moment in your life.