Just as every baby is a gift, so is every pregnancy. Even though it can be fraught with discomfort and challenges, it is an opportunity to cherish the amazing abilities of the body and fall in love with the child growing inside of it. No matter how many children you might have, each pregnancy is its own unique journey and one that you will want to remember.

Let’s discuss some reasons why you should plan for a professional maternity photoshoot and go over some tips to make the most of this special session.

Why a professional maternity photoshoot is a must

A maternity shoot is a very special session that captures the expectant mother, and sometimes both parents, at a momentous time in life. It highlights the woman’s beautiful, growing baby bump and the months when mother and child are literally inseparable! And because a pregnancy can be uncomfortable and challenging, this professional photoshoot can be a wonderful reminder of the amazing thing your body is doing: growing a human being!

We emphasize the word, professional because a professional photographer will make all the difference in your maternity shoot when you want to look and feel your best. Professionals understand composition and lighting choices that will show you and your bump off. They will be able to help with wardrobe, backdrop, and prop ideas. They also have all the equipment and experience that take everyday photos to exceptional photos. A professional photographer will help you realize just how beautiful you are as an expectant mother while capturing an important time! 

Perhaps the most important reason for a maternity shoot is that it starts documenting your child’s life. And believe it or not, you’re going to miss being pregnant with your little one, just as you’ll miss the many stages of their life as they grow up way too fast.

Celebrate your body, your role as a mother, and the child growing inside you with a professional maternity photoshoot. Book thru March 31st with the code GROWITHUS to get $30 off your session! Also good towards Gift Cards for the expectant mothers in your life.

Tips to help you prep & enjoy your photoshoot

• Pack snacks & essentials

As an expectant mom, you need a little bit more in your “toolkit” than the average model, because you’re modeling for two! For example, you might be running warmer than when you weren’t carrying a “passenger.” Have a fan or air-conditioned car standing by, especially during summer shoots. You may also need a restroom handy thanks to the baby putting pressure on all the right spots, so plan the shoot near the proper facilities. Whatever it is you need right now to be comfortable, plan ahead and have it in hand: snacks, hat, comfy shoes, your personal valet!

• Use props 

Props are great for every photoshoot. Not only do they allow for creativity and spontaneity but they can help you feel less awkward, giving you something to focus on rather than posing. Props can be as simple as a wreath of flowers in your hair or a flowing scarf. Some tried and true ideas are the baby’s first shoes, a onesie, a recent sonogram, or a toy from the nursery. Body paint and milk baths have become popular ways to celebrate the beauty of the body and baby bump. Your “prop” might be your significant other, a beloved pet, or your other children! Explore Pinterest and share your ideas with your professional photographer.

• Choose your wardrobe

This is one of the most fun parts of planning for your shoot and where your personality and creativity can really shine. First, check in with your photographer on how many wardrobe changes they’ll be time for. Then, pick a few different options, from flowing garments to tight-fitting dresses, and anything in between. If you decide to do your photos in the privacy of your home or in a secluded spot in nature, you may feel more free to show as much or little as you want. What’s most important when it comes to what you wear (and don’t wear) is that you’re comfortable. The more you are the more relaxed you’ll be able to enjoy the moment. That’s when you’ll shine!

• Choose the right time

Most photographers will suggest a photoshoot when your belly is at its largest but you still feel comfortable enough to enjoy the shoot. This will usually be the 7th or 8th month of the pregnancy, or the beginning of your third trimester. And these times do result in great shots of your round belly and pregnancy glow. But remember, there are no rules! Maybe you want a maternity shoot earlier on to announce the baby, or you want a few different shoots to document the growth of your belly and baby. It’s completely up to you.

Capture your pregnancy at different stages by using the code GROWITHUS as many times as you want between now and March 31st. Save $30 on each photoshoot!. 

• Choose the right attitude 

On the day of your shoot, getting dressed up and smiling in front of a camera may be the last thing you want to do. Your back may hurt, your feet may be swollen, you may feel miserable and uncomfortable and far from photogenic. If you can take a few moments before the photoshoot to focus on why you’re doing this: the baby growing inside of you and the love you already have for them. As soon as you remember your “why” the smiles will come easier, the joy and love will show on your face, despite the aches and pains. Let yourself focus on the excitement of the moment, be yourself, and know you’ll be so glad you did the photoshoot when you’re looking at your beautiful pictures.

We know you’re going to enjoy your maternity photoshoot and we can’t wait to see the pics. Tag us on Instagram at @angleplatorm when you share!