Ask a Pro: The Best Time to Book Your Maternity Photos
The journey to motherhood is a remarkable and transformative experience. Your body is growing a whole person from scratch - no big deal ;) Just kidding! It’s a huge deal! I mean this is an incredible time in your life and you are busy planning so many things for your new baby, from decorating the nursery to picking a baby name to choosing the most adorable baby clothes for your little boy or girl.
But don’t forget to document this incredible journey into motherhood with beautiful photos that will help you remember this monumental time in your life! This is the beginning of your motherhood journey and you shouldn’t miss out on capturing your joy and anticipation of what is to come.
To ensure stunning and meaningful images, timing is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore when to book your maternity session, the optimal stage of pregnancy, typical costs, choosing the right photographer, location preferences, the significance of makeup and hair, selecting the perfect wardrobe, and the importance of enjoying the experience. Your experienced professional maternity photographer will help you navigate all of these questions and more and will help you plan the perfect session. So let’s get started!
Start Researching for a Maternity Photographer in your 2nd Trimester
When it comes to booking your maternity session, it is advisable to contact your photographer at the beginning of the second trimester. This allows ample time to discuss your preferences, plan the session, and make any necessary arrangements. The second trimester offers a balance between comfort and showcasing your growing belly. Many mothers don’t like to share with their family and friends that they are pregnant until after their first trimester which is totally understandable (I did the same, as did many families I know). Waiting also gives you time to adjust to the idea of motherhood and hopefully get over any first trimester morning sickness that may be plaguing you.
Book early so you secure your spot!
So when you feel comfortable telling your family and friends after the 13th week, that’s a great time to reach out to photographers to learn more about their services and when you should book with them as photographers tend to book up months in advance and may not have a last minute opening for you (though it doesn’t hurt to reach out and see if you’ve just decided you want to capture this important time in your life).
When should your Maternity Photoshoot take place?
Scheduling the actual session between weeks 28 and 35 of your pregnancy is recommended. During this period, your belly will have a beautifully round shape, perfect for capturing the essence of your pregnancy. You'll also likely feel comfortable enough to pose and move freely (especially if you love portraits where pregnant mothers are lying on the ground). Keep in mind that every woman's body and pregnancy are unique, so discussing your specific circumstances with your photographer will help determine the best timing for you.
Pregnant mother lying on ground on grey backdrop in Kingston, Ontario
When should I have Maternity Photos taken if I’m pregnant with twins?
Of course if you are having twins then the timing usually changes pretty drastically depending on the special circumstances of your pregnancy. Some mothers are still able to move around freely, but others that are having complications may know ahead of time that they are being put on bed rest early (either at home or at the hospital to monitor the babies properly) or may just start feeling more uncomfortable earlier than you would if you were just pregnant with one baby. If you are pregnant with twins I highly recommend your maternity photos take place around the 26-28 week mark. Your belly will most likely be big and round much earlier than other mothers and sometimes twins have to be delivered earlier than you expect. Definitely discuss this with the maternity photographer you choose as they will be able to work with you and the doctor to see when is best.
Pregnant mother with twins in pink bodysuit outside in Kingston, Ontario
When should I have Maternity Photos taken if I’ve been pregnant before?
As a Mom of two I can tell you that I definitely started “showing” earlier with my second than with my first, which is the case for most Moms. Your body is an expert now on what is happening and tends to expand quicker to get ready for your baby to grow. Moms that have had pregnancies before may want to have their maternity photoshoot take place closer to the 30-32 week mark, but again every pregnancy is different and most photographers are able to adjust your session dates if it makes sense to wait a little bit longer or have it take place earlier.
Pro tip: Choose a photographer that doesn’t overbook themselves so they have the flexibility in their booking calendars to reschedule your photoshoot if it looks like you’d be more comfortable at a different date.
Pregnant mother in beaded couture tulle dress with older daughter in Kingston Portrait Studio
How much should I expect to spend on Maternity Photos?
The cost of a maternity photoshoot can vary depending on factors such as the photographer's expertise, location, package inclusions, and additional services. On average, maternity sessions can range from $400 to $800 or more. Highly experienced photographers who specialize in maternity photography may charge higher prices due to their skill, artistic vision, and reputation. Investing in an experienced photographer ensures exceptional quality images that capture the unique beauty of your pregnancy. These are once in a lifetime portraits of one of the most important moments in your life and you’ll never regret investing in a professional photographer that can help your dream photoshoot come to life.
Payment plans and Baby Shower Gift Registries can help offset the cost of a Maternity Photoshoot
Many photographers offer payment plans and by booking your photographer early you’ll be able to pay off your session before your session takes place. Many photographers also offer baby registries so that you can have people at your baby shower help offset the cost of your maternity photography. If you book your maternity photographer early in your 2nd trimester you’ll be able to plan these things well in advance so you have less stress closer to your due date. A win-win in my books!
Choosing the Right Photographer - What Style do you like best?
Selecting the right photographer for your maternity session is crucial to achieving the desired outcome. Look for professionals who have a portfolio that resonates with your style and vision. There are different styles of maternity photography and you’ll notice as you research that there will be photographers that specialize in relaxed casual, at home maternity photographs, glamour maternity photography, lifestyle maternity photography outside or in a studio, editorial or vogue style maternity photography or dreamy and romantic fine art maternity photography. There is a style for everyone and you’ll see right away what type of photography you love the most. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, and research their expertise in maternity photography. Schedule a consultation or phone call to discuss your expectations and ensure that your personalities and visions align. There style of photography can indicate how much the maternity photoshoot will cost as lifestyle maternity photography is usually quicker to capture and doesn’t require more advanced posing skills that are mastered through education and experience. You will find editorial and fine art maternity photography to cost the most because of their level of expertise in posing you from head to toe so you have the most flattering maternity photos possible. Their expertise is well worth the price if you love that type of maternity photography.
Pregnant mothers in couture gowns and jeans in Kingston Ontario portrait studio
Should I have my Maternity Photoshoot Outdoors or in a Studio?
The choice between an outdoor or studio session depends on your preferences and the aesthetic you want to achieve. Outdoor sessions can provide a natural backdrop, incorporating scenic landscapes and soft natural light. If you love those Epic Maternity Landscape Photographs then you’ll love being outside (that is if you choose a photographer that specializes in that). The soft glow of sunset can create just the most dreamy maternity photos.
Pregnant mother in white crochet dress with pink tulle skirt outside in Lemoine Point Park in Kingston, Ontario
Gorgeous Studio Maternity Photos
Studio sessions, on the other hand, offer controlled lighting conditions and a more intimate setting. This type of session is ideal if you don’t want to worry about having to reschedule due to the weather (the rainy season is not a photographer’s friend!). Studio sessions are often offered by more seasoned professional photographers that have mastered their lighting and who offer a maternity wardrobe closet to their clients. If you love the Calvin Klein or Vogue look and have found a photographer that can create those iconic portraits than a studio session is for you! Discuss your options with your photographer to determine which setting aligns with your vision and choose a photographer that is going to create the epic maternity photos you deserve!
Pregnant mother in beaded couture dress with husband in black shirt laughing on brown backdrop in Kingston, Ontario
Including my other Children in my Maternity Photoshoot
Including your older children into your maternity photoshoot can be a great way to get the whole family excited about the baby! I mean they are going to be a big brother or sister and are excited too! Getting portraits of your children holding your baby bump, giving mom a snuggle or a family portrait showing what you looked like before the new baby arrived will always be worth the work of getting your children dressed for a photoshoot. While I often recommend having your family maternity photoshoot take place outside so your little ones have space to run around and get their energy out, if you have more relaxed and chill kids at home (do those exist?) then a studio session is great too - especially if you love that fine art romantic look or if it’s a season that just doesn’t work for outdoor portraits (like when it’s minus 40 winter weather!). Whether you decide to have your family maternity photos outside or in the studio, you’ll never regret including them and most photographers will take both family portraits and individual portraits of mom by herself, so it can be the best of both worlds.
Including my partner in my Maternity Photoshoot
We highly recommend including your partner in your maternity photoshoot. It’s an incredibly big deal for them as well! You are both creating this new family dynamic together and going through all the planning for your new baby together so why not get together in your photos to show off your happiness together! Most photographers will take pictures of the two of you together and then also have separate pictures of mom with her belly bump by herself too. Including your partner works in both the studio and outdoors and they usually like helping with the photoshoot too in my experience. By booking your session early, you’ll have time to coordinate your outfit choices with theirs and most photographers can give you helpful advice on what types of outfits photograph well.
Check out this example of a Calvin Klein Maternity Photoshoot with the incredible couple below!
Should I get makeup and hair professionally done for my maternity photos?
Some Moms like to make the photoshoot experience amazing with a little extra pampering. Hiring a professional makeup artist and hairstylist for your maternity session can enhance your natural beauty and make you feel confident and radiant. While this isn’t a requirement at all, it is something a lot of maternity photographers recommend if you are stressing out about how you look. This can really keep the pressure off of you, but I would just love you to know that even if you come without your makeup done, your photographer is going to make you look gorgeous in your maternity photos.
Pregnant mother in blue lace dress with blue tulle skirt at sunset in Lemoine Point Park in Kingston, Ontario
Maternity Makeup and Hair doesn’t have to be complicated!
It isn’t necessary to get professional makeup and hair done unless you want that extra pampering, so what I recommend to my clients is come to your session with makeup that looks like you are going to a fancy dinner or to a wedding. If you only choose to enhance one thing I would highly recommend wearing mascara!
For your hair I would recommend just keeping it down (if you have medium or longer hair length hair) in loose curls or straight. It’s always great to bring a clip or hair elastic with you or bobby pins to create different looks during your session as well if you are in the studio. If you are having your session outdoors, it tends to work great to have your hair loose and flowing so the wind can catch it. If you have short hair then you already know it’s going to look amazing when you arrive and no need to fuss with it!
Pro Tip: Definitely try to stay away from anything shimmery for your eyeshadow or highlighting if you are having your maternity photos taken in a studio as the the studio lighting flash can sometimes fight with that type of makeup and give it too much highlight (I’ve definitely had to fight with that in editing more than once).
Pregnant mother in white dress with brown fur coat with husband in trench coat at Babcock Mill in Odessa, Ontario
Book your Professional Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist at the same time as your Photographer to ensure your spot!
By Booking your Maternity Photoshoot early enough with your chosen photographer, you’ll have time to decide if you want to also book a makeup and hair stylist at the same time. Makeup Artists and Stylist can book up months in advance, especially during the busy Summer and Fall Wedding Season so be sure to contact them early if this is something you are interest in!
Booking your Maternity Photographer early so you can plan your wardrobe
Choosing the right wardrobe is crucial for capturing diverse and captivating images. Include a variety of looks to create a well-rounded gallery. Consider incorporating boudoir-style intimate looks, glamorous and elegant attire, as well as casual and comfortable outfits. Opt for outfits that flatter your figure and reflect your personal style, making you feel confident and beautiful.
Your Photographer might have the perfect outfit for you!
Higher end photographers often have beautiful pregnancy wardrobe pieces in their client closet ready for you to borrow for your session and can help you achieve the style you want, but I do recommend incorporating different styles into your maternity photoshoot so that you can have a beautiful portfolio of images that are unquiet and different. By Booking your session early you’ll have the time to decide which outfits and looks would be best for you.
If you want to learn more about the different looks that I create in my studio you can check out the Top 6 Incredible Looks I recommend.
Pregnant mother in red dress by Willow tree in Lemoine Point Park in Kingston, Ontario
Having Fun: Embrace the Joy of the Experience
Remember that your maternity session is not only about capturing beautiful photographs but also celebrating the incredible journey of motherhood. Embrace the experience, enjoy the process, and let your genuine joy shine through. Relax, have fun, and allow your photographer to capture those authentic moments that reflect the unique bond between you and your baby.
Taking care of the details early means less stress later
Booking your maternity session during the second trimester and scheduling it between weeks 28 and 35 ensures optimal timing for capturing the radiant beauty of your pregnancy. By choosing the right photographer, location, wardrobe, and adding professional makeup and hair, you can enhance the experience and create timeless images that commemorate this incredible chapter in your life. Embrace the joy, celebrate your journey, and treasure the memories that will last a lifetime.
I wish you all the best in your pregnancy and motherhood journey!
Jen
Pregnant mother in couture dresses on grey backdrop in Kingston Ontario Portrait Studio
P.S. If you are local to the Kingston, Ontario area (or are willing to drive here) I’d love to capture your motherhood journey! Contact me today to get started planning your dream maternity photoshoot!