You’re in your third trimester, looking back on all that you’ve accomplished, and feeling happy about the baby’s progress. But, there’s something important you may have overlooked: when is the best time to book a maternity photographer?
If you have been scouring the internet for pricing and scheduling information, then you’ve likely stumbled upon a few blogs that advise against booking maternity photographers too early.
Choosing the perfect maternity photographer is hard. But, choosing the best time of year to book with one isn’t. Some months are better than others and this article will get you started on the right foot.
I am a maternity and newborn photographer and I just wanted to share with you my thoughts about the best time of year to book a maternity or family photographer.
Finding the right photographer
The first thing to do is to find a photographer who has done tons of pregnancy shoot when booking a maternity photoshoot. It’s important that you feel comfortable and that you’re able to show off your body without feeling awkward.
Make sure the photographer, such as myself, can do what you want. If you want natural lighting and low-key backgrounds, then make sure they have experience in doing this type of photography. In addition, make sure they know how to pose pregnant women so they don’t look like they are about to drop at any moment.
Ask questions about the photographer’s experience with other clients who have been pregnant before so that you know what kind of experience they’ve had with this type of shoot before deciding on whether or not you want them for your shoot.
Choosing an outfit that flatters your body type
A maternity photo shoot is not just about capturing the miracle of pregnancy; it’s also an opportunity to show off your gorgeous baby bump. You want to feel good about yourself as much as possible while posing in front of the camera, so choosing clothes that compliment your figure can help make this happen.
I’ve got you covered — literally! You will be able to choose from my extensive collection of stunning imported maternity gowns. I normally offer up to three gown changes for outdoor sessions. All you need to provide is hair, makeup, and undergarments that closely match your skin tone. Studio sessions can be semi or fully nude, with gowns, or a combination of both!
When is the best time to take maternity pictures
A lot of moms-to-be I work with are surprised to hear that there is no one right time to take maternity pictures. There are a few different options for when you can take your photos.
The first trimester is the most common time for women to have maternity photos taken because they’re not showing much yet and they feel good in their bodies. The second trimester is also a great photoshoot time to take maternity pictures because you’re starting to show and your belly has grown some! These are both great options but don’t feel like you have to do them at these times if it doesn’t feel right for you.
I generally shoot maternity sessions between 30-34 weeks, but it does depend on your belly size, session type and preference.
If you are wanting a semi-nude studio shoot, it’s sometimes better to schedule it a little bit earlier when your belly is slightly smaller. If you are wanting an outdoor session with gowns, then it’s better to wait a little longer so your belly doesn’t get “lost” in all the fabric.
Takeaways from this blog
Well, I think I’ve pretty much covered it for you. The best time to book a maternity photographer is as soon as you start trying to get pregnant, and before you hit the eighth month of pregnancy. Scheduling your photoshoot for pregnancy early also ensures that you’ll have a maternity photographer available closer to delivery if need be. At that point in your pregnancy, there’s no telling how many weeks you might be away!
And regardless of your worry level, these are some memories that won’t get re-created! So don’t let your stress/worry level dictate when you book; rather let your excitement about the occasion set the perfect time for maternity pictures.
We offer other services like: Maternity Photography, Newborn Photography, Family Photography.
