Maternity Photography: 5 things to do to prepare before the photoshoot

Congratulations! Expecting a new baby is such an exciting time for you and your partner and I have 5 things that you should do to prepare before your maternity photoshoot to make sure that the photos are successful.

Since you are reading this article, you have probably found the perfect maternity Photographer to take your photos. I understand this can be a very daunting task especially if this is your first baby. You probably have questions like where your session should be, what should you wear, do you need to bring anything?

A pregnancy photo session is all about the excitement and love shared during your pregnancy. The maternity session is geared towards capturing you growing belly, and the connection between you and your partner. To help you prepare and have the best session possible, I have created this guide for you!

1. Schedule your photography session to take place during your 7th or 8th month of pregnancy.

If you haven't already secured the perfect Photographer for you, that decision needs to be made asap. Most of the best Photographers in your area are going to fill up fast as most Mom's book at the end of their first trimester. I suggest the 7th or 8th month of your pregnancy because you will have a beautiful baby bump but will still be able to move freely and comfortably for the session.

During your session you will do a lot of posing which you probably won't won't to be doing too close to your due date just for comfort reasons and possibilities of needing to reschedule for things like weather related issues. Scheduling a session with Rachel Rayne Photography is easy as pie if you're interested in securing services with me you can find the CONTACT ME HERE

2. Make sure you do any waxing, facials, and anything else that could affect your skin at least a week before the session. I know we all want to be tan for our photos but avoid getting an uneven tan line or sunburns.

3. Plan outfits.

Most of the time your Photographer is going to provide a plethora of designer maternity gowns to wear during your session but don't forget about the rest of your family. You'll want to coordinate what they are wearing with the setting that you are being photographed and also the color dress you will be wearing for your maternity photos. If you need help with this, just contact your Photographer and they can always help with coordinating outfits.

4. Ask what to bring.

Some dresses require you to have matching under garments such as a strapless bra, or panties of your choice. I always recommend seamless well fitting undergardents

I am a huge advocate of wearing accessories. I feel like the right jewelry can really bring a session together so if you'd like to incorporate anything definitely bring it along. Who should you bring? I always suggest to bring your partner, of course, and any children you have. I love to incorporate them into the session. If you have a small child you may want to bring along a friend or family member to entertain them while we do couple shots but if not it's totally fine for them to just hangout around us.

5. Secure a hair and make up artist.

Every little detail can make a huge difference in the way your maternity photos come out. I always recommend either doing your own hair and make up or securing an artist for your big day. If you need one, I can put you in contact with a couple local hair and make up artists who have done previous clients hair and make up. Doing forget about your nails. You won't want any half painted nails showing up in your photos and it's something we always tend to overlook.

6. Show up to your photo session rested and ready to go.

Your energy will show through the images and if you're stressed before the photo shoot that will reflect in your images. Make sure you are well rested and drink plenty of water. Don't schedule other appointments for the day of your sessions and get to the location a bit early to calmly do the final touches for your look.

If you follow these simple steps, you will have an amazing photo session! Remember it's not just about the photos, it's about the memory and we want that memory to be fun and relaxing for you! For more examples of my work you can visit my MATERNITY PORTFOLIO

If you have any other questions or need any help preparing for your maternity photo session just comment below and I will do my best to help! Once again congratulations on your pregnancy!