Things to Consider When Planning your Maternity Shoot
One of the biggest things to consider when planning your maternity shoot is, am I sure I want to do this?? It can be a very vulnerable time for you as a new mother, and you may understandably be hesitating on how you want to document this stage of your body, mind and life.
If you’re on the fence, just imagine someday explaining to your toddler, “hey, look, that’s you in mom’s belly!”
Maternity photos are a beautiful way of documenting this short and miraculous time, and really honoring the incredible thing your body is capable of.
If/when you’re confident you want maternity photos as a keepsake, here are some things to consider when planning your maternity shoot:
Finding an outfit for your maternity shoot
Your maternity outfit should:
✅ BE COMFORTABLE
✅ Make you feel confident
✅ Flatter your body in a way that you like
✅ Be easy to move in
The right outfit is probably the biggest thing on your mind when preparing for your maternity shoot. It’s really important you choose an outfit that is both flattering AND comfortable. You want to pick something that makes you feel confident, whatever that means to you! You should also be able to move easily, with no discomfort, and feel like yourself. Form fitting outfits, or outfits that show off your belly are great for highlighting your bump, but they shouldn’t feel painfully tight or awkward.
Remember, you can also change into certain outfits for a few photos, then put on something more comfortable.
How to time your maternity shoot
I recommend timing your maternity shoot around 28-32 weeks. It’s at this time that your bump is visible, but you’re not super uncomfortable or easily tired.
Where to do your maternity photos
Consider the weather and time of year first - you don’t want to be too hot or too chilly during an outdoor location. Stay reasonable and within your comfort zone. Choosing a time in the early morning or later evening not only means the light is beautiful, but also outdoor locations tend to be less busy at these times.
In-home sessions are also intimate and sweet. You can scout out locations in your home with good natural light, and plan a few different “locations” to shoot right there in your house. Another benefit of in-home sessions is that it’s super easy to recreate the same image before and after the baby arrives!
Last thing to consider when planning your maternity shoot: should your partner join or not?
One of the last things to consider when planning your maternity shoot is if you want to be alone or with your partner. It is totally up to you if you want your partner in the photos or not. I always suggest doing some with and some without so you get a variety of images.
You can also consider doing a fun activity together, like making food, watching a show or preparing the baby room. This makes for natural images that have you each focused on a task rather than having your photo taken.
This is also a great way to include kids that you already have by keeping them engaged with something fun during the photos. It shows your natural interactions as a family.
Once you’re more comfortable, we can move on to more direct images, and then some of just mom!
Hi, I’m, Kelsey a Maternity and Family photographer based in North Carolina
If you’re in my area and looking for someone to capture your maternity session, reach out! It’s important to me that this moment in your life is captured in a no-pressure and fun way. It doesn’t matter if you prefer a maternity shoot alone in the outdoors, or an at home session with your partner, pets and other kids. I’m happy to help you put it all together!