6 Things To Know About A Maternity Session

Maternity session in Farmington, CT

1. Why do a maternity session?

When considering a maternity photoshoot, the first question an expecting couple asks themselves (or should, anyways), is why do it in the first place? With a baby on the way and all the associated expenses, pondering whether to invest time, energy and money into a maternity session in a addition to a newborn session, may be a bit daunting, so here are a few arguments to weigh in:

1 ) Do it to document this unique journey in your personal and family life. Being pregnant, especially with your first child, is an absolutely special time. Your subsequent pregnancies will of course be just as important and outstanding, but the focus will shift from you to your babies/toddlers/kids, and you won’t be quite the center of the universe as you were in your first pregnancy. The experience would be quite different.

2) Do it to capture the glow. Yeah, yeah, yeah, you probably heard about the glow but don’t roll your eyes just yet. Whether you see it not, being pregnant does make you shine. Any time you dream about holding your baby for the first time, about touching their tiny fingers and toes, about dressing your baby girl in unique and oh, so cute outfits, about dancing with your son to your favorite song, about showing your little one the world, teaching her to play your favorite game or instrument, taking them to their first sports game – you are glowing. With hope, joy, and all-encompassing love. That’s worth capturing.

3) Do it because you never know… Maybe it’s your last pregnancy in this town or state, or maybe your next pregnancy will keep you nauseous all 40 weeks, or maybe you decide not to have any more kids. You just never know.

2. When to do a maternity session?

The best time for a maternity photoshoot is between 30-35 weeks. This is when you already show a lot but are not overly tired yet. However, if it so happens that the idea for the session comes to your mind at week 38, don’t just give it up. Go for it. It’s only too later AFTER the baby has been born. It’s best to schedule your maternity session about 2 months ahead.

3. Where to do a maternity photoshoot?

There are several options. It really depends on the atmosphere you want to go for.

• Local Park or Beach. That’s a very popular choice. A quiet woody park gives a dreamy quality to your photographs. A park full of flowers gives a fun pop of color. A beach can add whimsical windy freedom into your photographs. An experienced photographer would usually have a list of several local parks that work best at different times of year.
• Photographer’s studio. For a glamorous, polished, high end look, opt for a studio session.
• Your home. If your house boasts a lot of natural light, it may be a perfect location for your maternity session. The atmosphere can range from sweet and cozy, to easy-going and fun, to intimate and sexy.
• Significant location. Not a generic beautiful place, but a place that’s important to your and your partner. For example, a café where you met, or a park where you said “yes”, or a wedding venue where you took your vows, or a city center where you went on your first date and fell in love, etc.

4. What to wear for a maternity session?

A long flowy dress is usually a flattering choice for most body types, a tight stretchy dress that shows the belly and all your curves is a great option too. If you are a boots and jeans girl – don’t give it up. The general rule of thumb is, wear an outfit that make you feel beautiful and that highlights the belly. Stay away from super bright patterns and logos, but don’t be afraid to wear richer deeper colors. Coordinate with your partner. Wear the same style, and opt for complementary colors.

5. Can I bring a spouse/kids/pets? And is free?

Yes! There is no separate charge for spouse/partner, kids, pets. If you’d like to bring your extended family to the session (parents, siblings, etc), there is a charge for that.

6. I am not a model! How do I pose?

No worries! I offer gentle situational posing where you naturally interact with your partner and don’t have to be anxious about every move. I will guide you through it. We would do both traditional posing and candid shots!

Check out this beautiful maternity session at Hillstead Museum in Farmington, CT.

Still have questions?