Pregnancy Photography

Pregnancy is a relatively brief period in our lives, but one which we will remember forever. I've never met a woman who didn't enjoy talking about her pregnancies, and it's important to have photos taken to commemorate the occasion.

Choosing a photography studio or photographer

What you really want from a photographer is a professional attitude. The photographer should make you feel comfortable. Set up a meeting with your photographer prior to committing to the session to be sure they are a good fit for you.

The best place to have pregnancy photos taken is either a private studio, or at home. If you have a photographer in mind, and they don't have a private studio, ask them to come to your house. The more relaxed you are in your surroundings, the better your pictures will turn out.

If you choose to have your pregnancy photos taken at home by a family member, get an idea of different poses that you like. Look online at other peoples pregnancy photos. Decide how much of your baby bump you want to reveal. Pick out a variety of clothing if you are doing an all at once session so that you don't have to hunt for clothes between shots.

Try different lighting, or using black and white or sepia toned prints. You can hang a sheet on the wall behind where you'll be posing to look more professional.

Have fun with your pregnancy photos

A fun option: using washable paints or markers, use your baby bump to make a work of art. Paint a picture (or have hubby do so!) on your tummy before a few fun pictures when your belly is getting bigger! Once in October I heard of a contest for pictures of baby bumps painted as jack o lanterns! You could even paint a picture of a baby! Be careful to use paints that are safe to use on skin, as chemicals in other paints can be absorbed by the body.

When to have photos taken

Your baby bump will be more impressive the later in your pregnancy that you have your photos taken. Your due date is not always a sure thing, so try to plan your photography session a few weeks early!Another option for those doing pregnancy photos at home is to take a sequence of photos. Take your pregnancy photos once a month, starting around the 3^rd month or when you have just started to show. These photos are especially fun to use in a scrapbook.

Sources:

Personal experience and discussion with others