WHAT TO EXPECT FOR YOUR MATERNITY PHOTO SESSION
Many times when I speak to expectant moms during their consultation there are a few objections that come up when deciding whether or not to even have maternity photos taken. It’s something they really want to do but that annoying little voice pops in that talks them out of it. If you are going back and forth about having your maternity photo shoot then I hope this post helps!
DO I EVEN NEED A PHOTO-SHOOT? I CAN JUST WAIT UNTIL THE BABY GETS HERE
This is a once in a lifetime experience, even if this is your third baby. Each pregnancy is different and life through each one looks and feels just as different. While a newborn session is a beautiful experience, celebrating YOU is always necessary too. BONUS: years after your session wraps you’ll be able to show your little one his/her first photo shoot with you ;-)
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY SESSION?
After the morning sickness dies down and you can concentrate I say start looking for your photographer. Most can be booked at least 3 months in advance but you’ll need time to make sure your aesthetics and energy mesh well together. This is for YOU and you should have what you’re looking for. Do your research, choose your price point and choose the photographer that shares your vision. Do you want something outdoors, in-studio, with your partner, or completely solo? All of these things should be considered.
I’M NOT PHOTOGENIC
This is probably the number one objection so let me put your heart to rest, EVERYONE is photogenic! It is your photographer’s job to pose and direct to capture your very best angels and expression. Be sure to discuss this at your consultation. Pregnancy might not always feel that amazing, cankles are the devil, but it really is a powerful and magical time and moms simply glow when they’re reminded of that.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
If you feel good, you look good. This is why your outfit selections are very important to your session. If you will be buying options be sure the try them on a week before to get the proper fit. Form fitting gowns and dresses accentuate your growing bump the best and the colors you are drawn to should be your first pick, don’t be limited to just pinks and blues and pastels. Bold is good too.
WHO SHOULD I BRING WITH ME TO MY SESSION?
This can be a day all about you and that is 1000% OK. Take the time to get your hair done, nails done, wrapped in the prettiest gowns and silks. Celebrate this life you get to help create.
You can also have the majority of the session in full on pamper mode and then bring others in at the end. Dad is a vital part of your journey as a Mom and the first superhero your children will ever love so consider bringing him in on even a few frames (even if he pretends to hate being there lol). If you have other children, nothing’s sweeter than welcoming them into their new role as big brother/sister than capturing their own time with their soon to be sibling.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Hydration is important, be sure to up your water intake at least a week before and eat something before your session, so you aren’t worried about how hungry your or baby are. Timing is everything. Select a time and date that works for you and your family so no one feels rushed and/or tired. Plan a date night or girls night out, you'r hair and make up will be done and you should be leaving your photo shoot feeling like a star, savor the moment for the rest of your day complete with the all the selfies you can take!
ENJOY YOUR SESSION! You’re doing an amazing thing bringing new life into the world be sure the capture it just the way you want. Your images will become a prized heirloom you and your children will cherish for years to come.
If you are in the New York City area and are interested in scheduling a Maternity or Motherhood session in the coming months, I would love to get you into the studio. Feel free to send me an email so we can design your dream session together!