The Art of Celebrating Your Changing Body During Pregnancy

Are you ready to commemorate this unbelievable moment?

Let’s face it, pregnancy is weird. One day you’re not pregnant, and the next you are. Your body is literally growing a human being inside of you. You should be proud.

The problem is…

Maternity photo shoots can bring up feelings of insecurity for many moms. Even though you should be celebrating your body, recent research published proves many women feel self-conscious during pregnancy. Science also says women are harder on themselves than anyone else. So it’s perfectly understandable to feel nervous about your bump.

However…

Maternity photos aren’t what they used to be. Stiff poses in a studio aren’t the norm. Natural, candid maternity sessions that celebrate you are!

You’ll learn:

• Why You Should Invest in Maternity Photos
• When to Take Pregnancy Photos
• How to Pose For Pregnancy Photos
• Tips to Nail Your Maternity Photo Style

Why You Should Invest in Maternity Photos

Are maternity photos really worth it?

Aside from being incredible keepsakes to share with your child one day, they’re photographic proof of a fleeting time in your life. Every pregnancy is different and unique. Once your baby arrives, you’ll never be pregnant with them again.

Remember…

Your child will look back at these photographs one day. You can practically see them pouring over each image while sitting on your lap. They’ll point to their cheesy smiles and remember the day you brought them home. Elegant maternity portraits create a bonding experience between you and your baby even before you meet.

Plus…

There are other benefits too!

• Helping you appreciate your body during pregnancy.

• Create timeless family heirlooms.

• Most women feel more beautiful after seeing their maternity photos.

Promising, huh?

When to Take Pregnancy Photos

Timing is everything.

While you may feel ready to take photos any week of your pregnancy, there is actually an ideal time to schedule your session. Your window of opportunity is between 28-34 weeks pregnant.

Why?

Well 28-34 weeks usually offers the perfect balance. Your belly is round and can be seen, but you still have enough energy to get through a photo session.

Let’s break it down:

If you schedule your session too early, your bump may not be visible enough to show in the photos. If you wait too long your comfort may be limited, and your energy might be low.

Ideally, you want to book your session anywhere from 28 to 34 weeks pregnant. Every woman is different. You could be showing sooner or later than another. A photographer will work with your style and body.

Pro tip: Book your session as early as possible. Good photographers go quick! By booking your session in your second trimester you leave room for your baby to come early.

How to Pose For Pregnancy Photos

Ready to look like a pro?

Most moms get anxious about their body during pregnancy. Between weight gain, bloating, and stretch marks, it can be hard to feel attractive. But what you may not know is…

Photographers have a trick or two up their sleeves.

They know how to pose you so that you will look your best. Photography is all about lighting and angles. Once you are in front of the camera, your photographer will help you pose and position yourself to look slim and gorgeous.

According to BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, many women experience mixed emotions during pregnancy. They may feel anxious about body changes or even feel less feminine. But your photographer will help you feel and look your best.

Try these tips:

• Wear comfy clothes you feel good in. Flowy shirts are always a good idea. Solid colors look better than patterns when it comes to photography. Bring several options so you can choose what you want to wear on photo day.

• Hire a professional hair and makeup artist. This isn’t meant to change your look. But if you want that extra help, go for it! Many photographers offer this as an add-on service.

• Listen to directions. Your photographer will guide you into different poses and positions. Guide you on where to stand or lay depending on the shot.

Tips to Nail Your Maternity Photo Style

There is no one way to capture pregnancy.

Yes, you read that right! When it comes to maternity photo styles there is no wrong answer. You want to feel comfortable and happy with your final images, so choose a style that matches your personality.

If you aren’t sure where to start, check out these common styles:

Studio

Private studio sessions are typically done indoors with professional lighting. Since everything is customized for your session, this style is ideal for a more elegant and timeless shoot.

Outdoor

Photographing outdoors gives you the beauty of nature. Whether it’s in a park, garden, beach, or city-walk session. Capturing images with outdoor lighting is known as golden hour and will make you look radiant.

Lifestyle

Typically done in your element. Whether it’s at home, nearby parks, or your daily routine. Lifestyle shoots are great for a more candid feel.

Fine Art

Fine art shoots take each image and turn it into a masterpiece. Using dramatic lighting, poses, and editing you’re guaranteed to come away with something unique.

Remember…

Feel free to ask your photographer any questions you may have about style.

Tips to Enhance Your Maternity Photoshoot Investment

Seeing your photos isn’t where it ends.

After you take your pregnancy photos you should plan on printing some if not all of them. Many photographers offer prints and beautiful albums as part of your session.

Think about these things:

Do you want prints displayed around your home? Turn them into wall art! Create albums for your grandparents. Or keep them all as digital files so you can send them to family and friends.

Don’t be afraid to print your photographs. They’re meant to be enjoyed by others!

Wrapping it up

Having pregnancy photos taken allows you to celebrate your growing baby bump.

Many women feel insecure about how their body looks during pregnancy. But pregnancy is a weird time for your body. Don’t let silly insecurities ruin your session.

Here’s what you should remember:

• Schedule your session anywhere from 28-34 weeks pregnant.

• Wear what you love and feel beautiful in it.

• There are many different styles of maternity photos. Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for suggestions.

Trust your photographer to help you create beautiful images you’ll cherish forever.

Here’s the truth. Women who look back at their pregnancy photos never regret it. But the women who don’t take them always do.