Pregnancy is such a special time in a woman’s life. During pregnancy, your hair is fuller and healthier, and you have that pregnancy glow to your skin. Although 9 months seems like a long journey, before you know it, you will soon be meeting your little one. There is nothing better to honor that memory than to have a maternity photoshoot. This article serves as a helpful guide for expecting mothers who are considering doing a maternity photoshoot.
Choose the right photographer
The most important decision to make is choosing the right photographer. After all, you want to love your photos and have a great experience. A simple way to start is by asking your friends, family, and co-workers if they know anyone they would recommend. Additionally, you can enter a quick google search of “nearby photographers” in your area and go through a list of various photographers. Make sure you do a thorough search of their portfolio. See what their style is when it comes to shooting and editing and if it matches your own personal aesthetic. Make sure to look for consistency in their work as well. Amateur photographers will often get a couple good photos out of hundreds and they will use those on their website and social media pages. Professional photographers on the other hand, have a consistent record both on their portfolio and social media pages. Make sure to take your time in spotting the difference, that way your first attempt is also your last.
Have a set price in mind
It’s important to set aside a budget for yourself so that you have an idea of what you can afford. Prices can vary based on experience, location, and how many photos you would like to have. Make sure to choose a photographer that fits your budget but that also meets the standard of quality you are looking to have. Don’t go for an ultra cheap photographer who may not be as skilled as the more pricier ones. Doing so puts you at a greater risk of having your photos turn out in lower quality. Not only will that be disappointing, but you will end up spending more money finding a new photographer to redo the shoot.
Figure out what type of photoshoot you want
There are different types of shoots that you can choose to do when it comes to your maternity photoshoot. Some women like doing their shoots early enough to where they can do a gender reveal photoshoot. Others, decide to wait until later in their pregnancy to where they are showing significantly. Whatever you decide to do, as long as you are happy, it will be a great decision. It is also helpful to find a few inspirational photos either on pinterest or another website, so you can communicate to your photographer about what kind of photos you want.
Choose your perfect location
Picking the right location to have your photoshoot is just as important as picking the right photographer. The location really sets the ambiance for your photoshoot. Some women prefer having their location be in their own home, others like to go somewhere else. Typically photographers are flexible about where they do the shoot. Simply communicate with them in the beginning about where you are intending to go for your location and see what they have to say. Some photographers like doing their photos in their own studio, where they have access to props and backdrops. Additionally, there are also women who prefer to have their photos taken at the hospital or in a birthing center. If that is something you are interested in, make sure to communicate that with your photographer and check in with your local hospital or birthing center about their policies. Whatever location you choose to have your photos done in, make sure it’s a place you chose and feel comfortable with.
Hair and Makeup
Depending on what your budget is, you might want to look into getting your hair and makeup professionally done. Having it professionally done will save you a lot of time in the morning from having to do it yourself. Generally speaking, makeup for a photoshoot is usually heavier and more colorful so that way it shows up on camera. If you do decide to go this route, see with your photographer if they know any makeup artists they can recommend you to. If you decide to do your own hair and makeup, it may be smart to do a practice run the day before so you can see if you like the way it looks. Whatever choice you make, the most important thing is that you are pleased with the results.
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