MUST-KNOW TIPS BEFORE YOUR MATERNITY PHOTOSHOOT
When I was expecting, with both of my kids, one thing I really wanted was Maternity photos! Being pregnant was such a joy for me that I wanted to capture every bit of that time that I could! I understand that not everyone is as comfortable jumping in front of the camera when they are pregnant, but if you want to be sure to capture that time, maternity photoshoots can be as simple or as themed as you want!
Let me tell you my top tips to know before your maternity photoshoot!
SCHEDULE YOUR MATERNITY SESSION AT THE RIGHT TIME.
The ideal time to schedule would be between your 28th and 34th week of pregnancy. This is a time when you’ll have a perfect visible bump and will still be comfortable moving around! According to a survey, over 80% of expecting mothers prefer scheduling their maternity photos during this sweet spot in their pregnancy journey. Remember, each body and pregnancy is different. The most important thing is to choose a time when you feel good and have plenty of energy to enjoy your session!
Special Timing Considerations.
Multiples. If you are having multiple babies, scheduling your maternity session earlier on might be better. You’ll be showing a little earlier, around 24-28 weeks even.
High risk pregnancies. In this case talk to your doctor about the best timing and consider a more flexible session date.
2. CHOOSE THE PERFECT LOCATION AND TIME OF DAY
I love photographing outdoors! Iowa weather isn’t always perfect, but the scenery is! The greens of summer and the colors of fall make the backdrop absolutely perfect for any session! Do you love that sweet glow right before the sun sets? Me too!
Some clients are happy to be indoors as well, or when weather doesn’t permit us outside, indoor sessions are just as dreamy! The studio is always ready for an indoor shoot, but your home would also be an ideal space!
Beautiful Locations around Knoxville, Iowa.
Lake Red Rock. Need I say more? I will! From the red rocks of Cordova Park cliffs to the sand on North Overlook Beach, trails and grassy fields and bike bridges. Red Rock has just about anything you can dream of for an outdoor location!
Downtown Pella is charming and colorful. There are so many different stops to be made around the square that will lend to a lovely background.
3. DRESS COMFORTABLY
Dress comfortably! When you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, your confidence shines through in your photos. The opposite is also true – if you’re uncomfortable, that discomfort will be visible in your expressions and posture.
When selecting your outfit, avoid highlighting areas of your body you’re not confident about. If you don’t love your arms, choose something with sleeves. Pregnancy amplifies all the changes happening to your body, so now is not the time to force yourself into a tight dress and stilettos if that doesn’t make you feel good.
For outdoor sessions, wear comfortable shoes or bring a pair to wear between shooting locations. You can always change into dressier shoes just for the photos!
4. WHAT EXACTLY TO WEAR FOR A MATERNITY PHOTOSHOOT
The star of your maternity session is your beautiful bump, so choose clothing that accentuates it! Some flattering options include:
Fitted dresses that hug your bump
Maxi dresses with empire waistlines
Wrap dresses that emphasize your shape
Fitted tops paired with skirts or pants
For a more dramatic look, consider a flowy dress or skirt that can be used in movement shots. These create stunning, romantic images that celebrate your pregnancy.
If you need a few dress options I am happy to share the ones I have here at the studio!
Color Recommendations:
Soft neutrals (white, cream, beige) for a timeless look
Pastel blues and pinks for a gentle, romantic feel
Rich jewel tones like emerald or burgundy for dramatic portraits
Black for classic, elegant silhouettes that highlight your bump
5. COORDINATING WITH PARTNERS AND SIBLINGS
If your partner or other children are joining you for your photoshoot, consider these tips. Coordinate their outfits with yours without being too matchy-matchy. Choose complementary colors and similar tones.
For partners, neutral tones like soft blues, grays, whites, or tans often photograph beautifully and don’t distract from the mom-to-be. For siblings, simple outfits without loud patterns or characters work best.
6. PREPARING YOURSELF FOR MATERNITY PORTRAITS
In the week leading up to your session:
Stay hydrated
Moisturize daily
Get plenty of rest
Consider scheduling a manicure (your hands will be featured prominently as they rest on your belly)
Consider Professional Hair & Makeup
Don’t schedule any major beauty treatments like new facials or tanning right before your session in case your skin reacts negatively. Stick with your regular routine but perhaps with a little extra TLC. While professional hair and make-up is not a must, it is certainly something that would help any pregnant Mama feel a little fancier! If it’s within your budget, it would be an extra little treat for your session!
If you prefer to do your own hair and makeup, keep it natural and slightly more defined than your everyday look. Pregnancy often brings a natural glow, so enhance that with light, fresh makeup.
7. MUST-HAVE ITEMS TO BRING WITH YOU
Pack a small bag with:
Water and light snacks
Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
Touch-up makeup
Hair ties or clips
Any props you want to include (ultrasound images, baby shoes, etc.)
A second outfit option if desired
Having a small bag with these items with you will help you be extra prepared for your session and keep you comfortable while we photograph!
8. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER
Let me know if you have any concerns, specific shots you’d like to capture, or areas of your body you’d prefer to minimize. As your Knoxville, Iowa maternity photographer, I want you to love your photos, so all communication is helpful to make sure we are on the same page.
Don’t hesitate to tell me if you need a break during the session or if a pose feels uncomfortable. Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and I’ll always work with you to find poses that feel good for your body.
Common Concerns I Can Help With:
Weather backup plans
Finding flattering angles and lighting
Feeling photogenic and natural in front of the camera
Partner/children reluctance or nervousness
9. EMBRACE THIS AMAZING CHAPTER
Remember that you are doing something amazing right now, bringing a new life into the world is a true miracle. It is also a fleeting moment in time that will pass too quickly. These photo are all about capturing this moment so you’ll have it to treasure forever!
Focus on savoring the moment and embracing the experience instead of striving for “perfect” in every photograph. The most stunning maternity photos reveal not only your physical beauty but also the anticipation, love, and bond you share during this extraordinary time.
10. YOUR FUTURE SELF WILL THANK YOU!
I promise, you’ll love having this chapter captured so you can share it with your kiddos for years to come!
Ready to book your maternity session? Contact me today to reserve your spot! I want to start planning with you as soon as possible to get you a personalized experience, so don’t wait until the last minute to secure your due date.
