Maternity photoshoot London
While pregnancy photoshoots may not be as popular as newborn photoshoots, they are most definitely becoming more common in the UK. And even if you know roughly what they are, you may still have some questions about them. That's where I come in with my knowledge and expertise as a London maternity photographer. In this blog post I'm going to answer 10 most common questions that you may be asking about a pregnancy photoshoot.
Why should I have a pregnancy photoshoot?
You may remember your pregnancy very well (whether it's your first or last), how you felt and what the world around you looked like. But this baby you're carrying will not know the world that was there before he/she was born. By having maternity photos taken, you're giving your child a one-of-a-kind time capsule, a glimpse into the world they'll never be able to experience for themselves.
When should I have my maternity photoshoot?
I recommend scheduling your maternity photo session when you are between 28-34 weeks pregnant. It is during this time that your belly is nicely rounded and you don't feel too tired or uncomfortable. However, pay attention to your own body and decide what's best for YOU. If you prefer to have the photoshoot done earlier, then of course it can be done as well.
What should I wear to my maternity photoshoot?
It is entirely up to you and your personal style as to what to wear and the most important thing is that you feel comfortable. Clothes that photograph well are always nudes and pastels - plain clothes without huge logos or patterns. As part of my pre-session consultation I help my clients with what to wear to their session by sharing with them my styling guide. You may also want to change into beautiful underwear, if you would like to have your bump photographed naked.
Where should I have my pregnancy photos taken?
I truly believe there is no place better for this session than your own home - the place where you will be bringing your new baby and where you spent so many months waiting for his or her arrival. However, if there is an outdoor location special to you and your partner, we can also take some photos outside. Nature is always a wonderful background for any photos!
Should my partner be in my maternity photos?
You may think that pregnancy photo session is only about the pregnant woman, however I always encourage having your partner in some of the photos with you - it makes for some really intimate and sweet images. It's a lovely way to strengthen your bond as partners and capture who you are before becoming parents.
What should my partner wear for maternity photos?
It is advisable for the partner to compliment the expecting mama's outfit - it is done mostly by following the same colour palette and, of course, choosing clothes that are comfortable, fit well and don't have big logos or distracting patterns.
How to hold a pregnant belly in pictures?
There are a few ways you can accentuate your pregnant belly. For example, put one hand below the belly and the other one above the belly. You can also put both of your hands underneath it or gently rub it, the way you normally would when you would want to connect with your baby.
Is 35 weeks too late for maternity photos?
Most photographers recommend a maternity photoshoot to be done between 28 and 34 weeks, however if it's your first pregnancy and you're feeling fine, then it's not too late! I would, however, recommend not leaving it until the last 3-4 weeks of pregnancy in case you go into labour early.
Are maternity photos worth it?
There is definitely a value in having a maternity photoshoot booked. You will never regret having professional photos taken, especial at this crucial moment of you becoming a mother. After all, most women only experience pregnancy a few times in their lives, so having these kind of photos is a wonderful keepsake.
What do I need to know before a maternity photoshoot?
When you book me as your photographer, I will make sure you look and feel your best and I won't overly pose you (or your partner). I will move you where the best light is, make sure you are in the most flattering position and then get you in your natural movements. Feeling your baby kick and looking down on your belly, moving your hair out of the way while looking into the distance... This is all natural magic and I will be there to capture it all.
My biggest piece of advice is to not overthink anything and go into a session without any expectations and just allow yourself to enjoy every minute of it. This is a special moment in your life, just before your baby arrives, that you will never get to experience again.
BONUS QUESTION: Who started the maternity photoshoot trend?
It is widely believed that the maternity photography trend started with actress Demi Moore, who at 7 months pregnant with her first child posed naked on the cover of Vanity Fair. That famous photo was taken by the acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz and has for sure changed how the society views a pregnant woman.