As you prepare for your little one to enter the world and join your family, your to-do list is probably a mile long. [It was with my wife] Having a professional maternity session may seem like just another item to add to your list, but a maternity shoot can be a perfect time to remind you of the power and beauty of your body during your pregnancy journey.

You deserve to have this incredible moment in your life captured, to celebrate with your partner and family the joy of a new baby entering your life.

If you’ve never had a maternity session before, you may not know how to prepare or what to expect. I’ve put together these Top Ten Tips to make the most of your session, and get images that you will love.

1. Schedule your session early

The earlier you book your session, the better. Your best bet is to book your maternity session somewhere between 12 and 16 weeks, around when you find out the sex of your baby. Especially if you have a specific photographer you want to work with, it’s important to book as early as possible to make sure they will be available.

2. Plan to book a shoot for your third trimester

The best time to take your photos is in your third trimester, between 28 and 32 weeks. At this point, your bump will be showing well and look great in photos, and you will still be able to move around and pose comfortably. While you can do your maternity session later in your pregnancy, there’s a good chance you will have more trouble posing and standing for long periods of time.

3. Talk to your photographer about your desires

Every photographer is different and every mom-to-be is different as well. If there are specific images you want—or don’t want—be sure to let your photographer know. Talk to your photographer about what images are important to you and whether you’re interested in doing partial or implied nudes. It’s important to let your photographer know what you’re comfortable with before your session so they can better plan out what shots and poses to do.

4. Pamper yourself

Your hands will appear in almost all of your images, so you want them looking good! Your maternity session is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself a little with a professional manicure.

5. Have your hair done professionally

Continue the pampering with a visit to your hair stylist. If you’re not sure how to have your hair done, think about what you want your photos to look like. If you’re going for a more casual look, a loose and simple hairstyle may be the perfect option. But if you want your images to look a little more formal, don’t be afraid to go dramatic with an elegant look.

6. Consider hiring a makeup artist

While some photographers may include makeup and hair as part of your session, others may allow you to make your own choices about how you want to look. If you really want to look your best, a professional makeup artist is the way to go. A pro will know how to do your makeup so it shows best in photos. If you decide to do your makeup yourself, you want to go a little bolder with your makeup than you normally would to make sure your eyes and lips are well-defined in your images.

7. Get plenty of rest the night before

I know, it can be hard to get any decent sleep during pregnancy, but if you’re able to, go to bed early and try to get a full night’s sleep. That way, you’ll be refreshed and relaxed at your session the next day.

8. Stay hydrated—and don’t skip breakfast

It’s critical to drink plenty of water both before and during your session. Hydrated skin will look fresh, and staying hydrated will help keep your energy up throughout the shoot. And even if you have a case of nerves about stepping in front of the camera, be sure to eat breakfast before your session.

9. Decide who to bring with you

Your family members are absolutely welcome at your maternity session, especially if you want to include your spouse or other children. Just keep in mind that extra people can be a distraction and can even make you feel less comfortable in front of the camera, so avoid bringing friends and extended family members along.

10. Bring along sentimental items

Anything special you want to include in your photos is a great addition. Whether that’s a family heirloom, your ultrasound, or even your own baby blanket or favorite childhood toy, these mementos can add special meaning and a personal touch to your images.

MOTHERLY PORTRAITS

Antonio specializes exclusively in fashion and fine-art inspired maternity portraits. For more of MOTHERLY PORTRAITS please visit our maternity gallery. For bookings and information on maternity photography please reach out to us by filling out the contact form here. We are excited to learn about you and your baby so we can provide you with a fully customized experience.