how to make the most of your maternity portraits and get photos you will adore
“Life is always a rich and steady time
when you are waiting for something to happen or hatch.”
E.B. White
Hey mama-to-be; you look stunning today! Your skin is glowing like you are lit from the inside out. Your hair, oh your gorgeous pregnancy hair, it has never been more beautiful. And of course, your perfect little baby belly that you just want to hold on to all day long. You are a walking miracle that needs to be photographed!
Take it from someone who never had maternity portraits done-you will want these photos someday! Even if you’re convinced you won’t care about them in the future, I’m willing to bet that your children or grandchildren would cherish them.
I remember coming across a photo of my mother-in-law when she was pregnant and it was so fascinating to me. It was like looking at a photo of a completely different person who you never knew, and imagining what their life was like. A page out of a history book; except all the names and places are personal to you.
Ok, now that you’re convinced that the world needs your maternity photos in it, let’s make sure you really rock this thing and get the portraits you are now dreaming of.
Here are my top 5 tips for a flawless maternity session.
1.Choose an epic outfit.
This is your chance to dress up a little, have some fun, and wear something you might not get to wear in every day real life.
Tips for choosing an outfit:
Your outfit choice should make you feel beautiful and be something you love. Consider ultra feminine dresses in solid colors or floral prints, flowy fabrics like chiffon, empire waistlines, and textures such as lace.
Your outfit choice should be comfortable. Consider a floor length dress, stretchy fabrics, and make sure it isn’t accidentally sheer!
Your outfit choice should take your location into consideration. If you know you’ll be photographed against a backdrop of evergreen trees, don’t choose a green dress. If it’s January, and you live in a cold climate, maybe don’t choose a strapless gown-this leads back to the comfort point.
2. Have your hair and/or makeup done for you.
It will make you feel a little extra special- plus it looks fantastic on camera.
You could go all out and schedule time with a professional before your session-make an event out of it! Or, if you’ve always liked the way your friend or sister does their hair or makeup, you could ask them to do yours for you. I would suggest doing a trial run before your session; just to make sure you like it before it’s captured forever.
3. Bring meaningful props and special details.
Ideas for props to use in maternity sessions are endless-Pinterest will back me up on this one! My suggestion would be to keep your props small and meaningful to you.
Props not your style? A few special details here and there will take your portraits to the next level. A flower crown, a kimono, a blanket, or a hat could make everything look put together.
If you have an idea for something you would like to include in your portraits, but don’t have it, ask your photographer. We tend to have an embarrassing amount of photo props and details stashed away-or so I’ve heard.
4. Don’t forget about Dad.
Of course you’ll have photos of just you, but it’s also sweet to include Dad in some of the portraits as well. Besides, maybe it’s been awhile since you had any professional photos of the two of you together?
Choose a fun outfit for him, something that compliments yours, and give him a pep talk beforehand-then he’s good to go!
5. Relax & Enjoy!
You’re fully prepared-all that’s left is to relax and enjoy your maternity portrait session. Reflect on this season in your life and cherish it- it passes before you know it!
26 EVERGREEN PHOTOGRAPHY 