11 tips for your maternity session.
First of all, I just have to say that Sarah just radiates in these images. I love doing them as they are just magical. There’s an inner calmness to them.
I’ve been getting a few requests for maternity sessions so I thought I’d chat about them here. Speak my mind, answer some common questions, et cetera. Let’s begin.
The best time to do a maternity session is between 28-34 weeks. This is the golden time for a maternity session. You’re far enough along to have a nice baby bump but not so far along that it’s uncomfortable. Also, you have enough of a buffer zone so that, if you have to cancel because of bad weather, you just don’t feel well or whatever, there’s still time to get it in down the road.
As always there are exceptions. If you are having more than one baby, have a high risk pregnancy, or want to use the images for announcements, then you should have it done sooner. In these cases, I would suggest early second trimester to get in your session.
Choose the best photographer that matches your style and makes you comfortable. Find ones that matches your vision of the final images. I’m not for you if you’re thinking about highly stylized images, for example. That’s not to say that I know photogs who are, mind you, and have no problem giving you their names. I’m more about capturing the moment and relationships. That’s what I love photographing.
Moisturize often in the weeks and days leading up to the session for soft, glowing skin.
Get a good night’s sleep. I mean, try your best to do this.
Don’t wear tight clothing to the session. This can leave marks on the skin that are hard to retouch in your maternity photos.
Bring a variety of comfortable, yet belly bump-friendly, outfits. Always choose simple clothes that can accentuate the subject’s body. Avoid distracting patterns so that the bump can truly shine.
Pamper yourself before the session. Get your nails, hair and make-up done by professionals. Make it a day. Make it your day.
Tell your photographer if any poses causes any kind of discomfort.
Take breaks often. If you need a rest, just let us know. We don’t want you to overheat and/or faint.
Stay hydrated.
Communicate with the photographer before, during, and after the session. Let us know what you’re thinking, what you’re feeling, any ideas you might have, et cetera.
I hope that helps you in preparing for a maternity session.
Mark Knopp is a photographer with over 40 years of experience. He is based in Yorktown and covers Hampton Roads, Richmond and beyond. Contact him today at mknopp1(at)cox.net to book your session.
Photography by Mark K 