This is my first pregnancy, so my first maternity photos. I had thought long and hard about if I wanted to capture this magical time and I am so glad I went for it. I know that many woman can feel that they don’t want to highlight their changing body. So for those that do want to hold onto the memories of their body working in such a magical way, here are some tips for taking maternity photos:
1. Timing! It is recommended that you look to do your photos between 28 and 32 weeks pregnant. The hope with this date range is that you are round but not too round and you are still comfortable with your body. I waited later than it was recommended because I didn’t feel that I was getting round. I ended up doing mine late…very late… 37 weeks. It can be a little nerve-wracking because there is no telling if I would go into labor before the shoot or even before I would get the photos. So to be safe, check the calendar and know when you will be within 28-32 week range so then you can…
2. Secure a photographer. I recommend someone you know or feel comfortable with. This could be someone who did your engagement photos, your wedding, or if you do not have someone close to you I suggest taking recommendations from friends and even interviewing a photographer. This can be a very intimate shoot or even an emotional shoot and you want to feel as comfortable as possible. I was fortunate enough to work with a friend, Jimmy Glynn. On instagram @jimmy_glynn_photography
3. Have a plan. Photographers are amazing and know all the lighting and great locations but it is your job to be inspired and know what props you want to include. I was looking for elegant and whimsical. I also, love the outdoors so that helped my photographer and me pick a location.
4. Location, location, location! I love the outdoors and what the natural light can offer. I am fortunate to live in Orange County with so many amazing open spaces around (which was the look I was going for). The time of my shoot was determined by my photographer as we went around sunset. Also, with your location, know where you are going so you know how long it takes to drive there (if you are not doing them at your home), and know what is around (bathrooms).
5. Outfits. It is best to have at least two outfits for your shoot. Remember your belly is the main event and you will want to highlight that. The right dress can highlight your belly and depending on what you wanted your theme to be you may want to stay with dresses, or do a dress and then something casual or a you may want to go with something comfortable to allow for your to bare your belly. I was fortunate to be given an Isabella Oliver dress to wear for this shoot. I wore the Ruched T-Shirt Maternity Dress in Deep Bordeaux. This dress is extremely comfortable, form fitting, flattering, and shows off the bump perfectly. It is very simple and offers one multiple outlets for adding one’s own style.
6. Include your husband and or family. I felt it was very important to include my husband. He is very much on this journey with me as I am. My husband was aware of the idea of what I was looking for as the overall theme. He also knew what I was wearing and he planned his outfit accordingly. My husband was very helpful when he was not in the photos in holding some of our props or making sure my floral crown was laying well on my head.
If you include animals or other children it might be best to bring along a friend or other family member to help coordinate everyone, or keep them occupied. You can always do photos with the children or animals first and then have your friend or family member take them home while you finish.
7. Be confident… not critical! Pamper yourself before your photos, get a manicure, pedicure, and get your nails done. Do whatever makes you feel as beautiful as possible. Just know that this is not the time to try a new style, go with what you know and what is truly you. Remember to embrace the moment and not to be critical of your body, you are beautiful, your body is working to create a life, and you are amazing! How you feel will indeed be portrayed in your photos.
Photographer: Jimmy Glynn
Dress: Isabella Oliver (burgundy)
Nordstroms (teal)
Hair & Makeup: Self
Floral Crown: Self
Location: San Juan Capistrano Northwest Open Space
My husband and I could not be more excited to welcome our little one to our family, but we want to make sure we treasure this exciting time of pregnancy and it looks like these maternity photos are a great way to do it. I like the suggestion you give of having them taken when you are between 28 and 32 weeks pregnant. I imagine that a benefit of that is that you have a nice, larger belly but not so big that you are uncomfortable. Thanks for sharing these ideas!
My pleasure. The suggestion of when to do it comes from many photographers. I waited till I was 37 weeks and really pushed it. I delivered 12 days after my photos were taken. It’s best to make sure you get them take to ensure that you are not stressed.
Congratulations on your pregnancy.