You’re having a baby and it’s time to plan your maternity session! Congratulations! As a maternity and family photographer in Northern California, I have the privilege of capturing some of the most magical and heartfelt moments in my clients’ lives. Maternity sessions are one of my absolute favorite types of sessions to photograph. They hold such a special place in my heart because they’re filled with love, excitement, and anticipation. The joy of spending an afternoon with soon-to-be parents, hearing about their hopes and dreams for their baby, and even discussing their fears about the unknowns ahead, is something I never take for granted.
I created this maternity session guide to help you prepare for your session, ensuring it’s everything you dreamed it would be! Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding another little one to your family, these tips will help you feel confident, relaxed, and ready to capture this beautiful chapter of your life! Let’s get started!
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
Timing is everything when it comes to maternity sessions. I typically recommend scheduling your session between 33 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This is the sweet spot for a few reasons! Firstly, around 33-36 weeks, your baby bump is beautifully rounded, but you’re not yet in the last few weeks when discomfort tends to increase! Secondly, this timeline allows me to edit and deliver your gallery well before your due date, so you can enjoy and share your photos without added stress! Lastly, scheduling within this window, we will have time to reschedule if needed due to unexpected weather or other circumstances.
If you’re carrying multiples or experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, we may adjust the timeline to ensure you’re comfortable and safe during your session!
Choosing the Perfect Outfits for Your Session
I love it when couples decide to do two different outfits for their maternity sessions. Having a casual outfit and a more dressy option makes the final gallery well put together. A casual outfit allows for more playful moments and movement in your photos. While the dressier option is perfect for getting those more still poses.
Location always plays a huge role in picking out outfits for your session! Depending on the location and vibes of the session, sometimes a casual outfit isn’t always best, which is totally fine! It’s so easy to adapt our session together to best fit the vibe of the couple and location. The most important tip is to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you decide to wear! The more comfortable you are in your clothes, the more comfortable you will feel during your maternity session in front of the camera.
Incorporate Meaningful Props
Including a few personal touches can make your maternity session even more special! Props don’t have to be elaborate, they just need to reflect your journey as parents and the excitement! Here are a few ideas:
- A pair of baby shoes or a tiny outfit
- An ultrasound photo
- A blanket or toy handmade by a loved one
- A letterboard with a meaningful message, such as your baby’s name or due date
These small details add depth and emotion to your photos, creating keepsakes you and your loved ones will love and obsess over forever!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and stay tuned for what I’m working on next and find me on Pinterest for all your maternity photoshoot inspiration needs!
Preparing for Your Session and What to Expect
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable maternity session. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before, stay hydrated and eat a light meal before the session, and pamper yourself a little with a manicure or anything else that will help you feel extra confident! Be sure to bring both your outfit options including shoes and accessories, any props you’d like to include, a brush and makeup bag for touch-ups, and water and snacks to stay energized and comfortable!
My maternity sessions are designed to be relaxed and enjoyable! We’ll start by chatting and easing into the session. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. I’ll be guiding you through poses that flatter your bump all while capturing authentic moments that highlight your personality and connection as a couple!
Let’s Capture Your Journey into Parenthood
My goal as your maternity photographer is to create a stress-free, joyful experience that results in photos you’ll treasure forever. Whether we’re wandering through a sunlit field or snuggling on your living room couch, every moment we capture will tell the story of your journey to parenthood.
If you’re ready to book your maternity session in Northern California, let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your vision and help you create memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
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