It’s no secret that being pregnant can be, well, overwhelming. You have seemingly constant pregnancy symptoms to deal with, and you’re also busy preparing for a baby in every way possible. You’re babyproofing your home, flipping through baby name books, and figuring out your work plans once your due date arrives. On top of all that is mommy brain: You’re swamped.
Planning a photoshoot might not exactly be your top priority right now, but trust us when we say that this is something you should consider, even if you never thought it was for you. A maternity photoshoot can be a great way to commemorate and remember your pregnancy. It can also be a huge confidence boost and a fun moment in your pregnancy that you’ll never forget.
If you’re at all interested in having a maternity photoshoot, keep reading — we’ve got all of your FAQs answered right here.
What Is a Maternity Photo Session? What Pregnant Women Should Know
So you’ve heard the buzz about maternity photoshoots with professional photographers and are curious about what they actually entail. (Even if you’re not curious about this new approach to family photos, keep reading and let us convince you! Because, TBH, we’re obsessed.)
A maternity photoshoot is essentially a professional photo session with a family photographer that focuses on capturing the beauty and essence of pregnancy. It’s a chance for expecting moms to celebrate their growing baby bump and create tangible memories to look back on. Maternity photoshoots typically take place between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy, when the bump is nice and round but not crazy uncomfortable yet.
Not every woman has a maternity photoshoot, and whether or not you want to commemorate your pregnant body is totally up to you. But there’s definitely something to be said for celebrating the magic of what your body can do.
Maternity Photoshoot Ideas: The Sky’s the Limit
The exciting part of having a maternity photoshoot is that when it comes to the artistic direction or theme of the shoot, the possibilities are totally up to you. Some mamas-to-be opt for a classic, timeless look with simple outfits and a focus on their belly. Others go for a more playful or whimsical theme, incorporating props or a specific color palette.
Other ideas include:
- Nature-inspired family portraits: If you love the great outdoors, why not take your maternity photos in a scenic location, like a forest, park, or beach? When taken at the right time of day (i.e., golden hour), outdoor photos can be truly spectacular, especially when paired with a chic flowy jumpsuit or similar stylish look.
- In-studio chic: For a more polished and sophisticated look, a photography studio photoshoot might be right up your alley. Opt for clean lines, flattering and classic maternity outfits, and simple backgrounds to make your bump stand out. This is a fantastic option if you’re envisioning more of a traditional photo shoot.
- Fun and funky: If you’re a creative type with a boho aesthetic, you might enjoy a more playful, offbeat theme. Incorporate bold colors, photography props, popping patterns, or a more chill outfit. Maternity overalls, anyone?
- High glamor: If you’re feeling extra fancy, why not go all out with a glamorous photoshoot? Think pics with flowing evening gowns, dramatic makeup, and all the bling you can handle. It’s a chance to feel like a celebrity for a day and create some truly stunning photos.
Why Should I Try Maternity Photography?
Okay, clearly, taking maternity portraits and showing off your pregnant belly is a blast. But maybe you still aren’t quite convinced that it’s for you. Keep reading for all of the reasons why you should schedule a photography session ASAP!
First off, let’s talk about memories. Pregnancy is difficult — crazy cravings, aches in your back, and more. It’s also a special time in your life that’s going to go by FAST (even though some days it might feel like it’s dragging on forever).
To Remember the Beautiful Moments
A maternity photoshoot is a chance to capture those fleeting moments and create tangible memories that you can look back on for years to come. Even if your pregnancy is a nightmare, trust us, when your little one is all grown up, you’ll be so grateful to have these photos to look back on.
To Treat Yourself
Another reason to schedule a maternity photoshoot is the opportunity to pamper yourself. Let’s face it: pregnancy isn’t always glamorous. In fact, it can often feel like the least glamorous thing you’ve ever done after you spend entire trimesters feeling bloated, tired, and vomity.
A maternity photoshoot is a rare opportunity to get dolled up, wear a cute outfit, and feel like a queen for a day. It’s a chance to focus on your beauty and celebrate all the amazing things your body can do.
With the right photographer, it doesn’t matter how gross or blah you’re feeling the day of — they’ll make you look and feel like superwoman. Speaking from experience, you’re going to look back and be completely amazed at what you and your body went through.
To Give Yourself a Confidence Boost
A maternity photoshoot is also a chance to embrace your bump and feel confident in your skin in a way that many women struggle with during pregnancy.
Let’s be real: Society doesn’t always make it easy to feel good about our changing bodies during this time. A photoshoot is a chance to celebrate your unique, beautiful body.
There’s just something incredibly empowering about seeing yourself look absolutely stunning in a photo. Picture the feeling of a perfect selfie times three — that’s the power of a great pregnancy photoshoot.
To Have Fun
Maybe the best reason to schedule a maternity photoshoot is that it’s just plain fun! It’s a chance to get creative, try out different poses and outfits, and make unforgettable memories with your partner or family.
Plus, when else are you going to have an excuse to take a bunch of gorgeous photos without feeling vain? It’s a chance to be a little extra and revel in the spotlight, and we, for one, love that type of opportunity.
Planning a Photoshoot
Planning a maternity photoshoot is less work than you might think. Most of the job is simply finding a fab maternity photographer.
Do your research before your maternity session, check out baby photography portfolios, and read reviews from other moms to find someone whose style and personality align with yours. Once you’ve booked the photoshoot, it’s time to start thinking about the theme and location and (most important of all!) your outfits.
There you have it — maternity photoshoots are a must. Whether this is something you’ve always wanted to do or you’re beginning to consider it, we’re firmly rooting for you to book the shoot. It’s a chance to feel beautiful and celebrated during your pregnancy. As far as we’re concerned, that’s something every mom deserves.
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