How to Prepare for your Maternity Session with Briana Calderon Photography
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I love pregnancy! I think it’s one of the most special, rewarding, and fascinating things in life! I have two little girls myself and the wonder of growing a little person inside my body blew my mind. It’s an honor to co-create life with God and I feel so blessed that I was able to have two healthy pregnancies. Now mind you, I was prettttty sick with both my girls during my first and second trimester and that felt awful! But the gift at the end of it all– a beautiful, baby girl– made it all worth it.
I have fond memories that come to mind every time I see a pregnant mom out and about. Not sure a third baby is in the cards for me, but I’m filling my cup by documenting pregnancies and newborns! Motherhood has always had my heart. Even as a young girl I always knew I wanted to become a mom. I feel honored to be able to capture the moments leading up to the birth of a baby, their tiny hands and feet when they finally make their debut, and then the years after as your bond with your child grows.
When Should You Take Maternity Photos?
For most pregnancies, maternity photos should be taken between 30-35 weeks. This is a general suggestion, as your belly is nice and round by this point, but you’re not so large you’re uncomfortable moving and walking around! Now I say this is the prime window for photos, but I’ve done sessions much earlier than this (usually after your first baby, you start showing much earlier) and I’ve also done sessions very last minute! If you’re planning ahead for maternity photos, I’ll definitely recommend around the 30 week mark.
How to Choose a Location for your Maternity Session
I always ask first if you have a vision for your session so we can be on the same page for what you want your final images to look like. While I have a list of various places I’ve photographed around the area, I always like to know if a beach, forest, open field, or mountain backdrop is what you’re dreaming about! Choosing some place picturesque, but also meaningful is the perfect combination. A few of my favorite spots to shoot an epic maternity photoshoot include Tipsoo Lake out in Mt. Rainier (in the summer months), Chambers Bay in Tacoma, Discovery Park in Seattle or if you’re interested in a forest look, Tehaleh in Bonney Lake!
Include your Spouse and Kids in the Photo Shoot
This is a big moment in your whole family’s life! Be sure to include them in your maternity photos and get them excited for the new addition. While I’ll definitely be doing solo shots of the pregnant mama, this session will be a lot like a family session with fun interactions, play, and tender moments too. If this is your first baby, you’ll definitely want your spouse to be a part of the shoot. Think engagement photos, intimate cuddles, and pure joy in anticipation of a little babe! We’ll have fun at any session so tell your hubby to keep his chin up– no grumpy dads allowed, lol!
What to Wear for Your Maternity Photo Shoot
This is a big topic that I will expand on in another post, but here are the highlight tips for now. I love beautiful dresses and I think they photograph very nicely for maternity photos, but there are definitely some other options as well. I’m totally open to having a change of clothes if you want to have a formal look as well as a more casual look.
A casual look can be as simple as a crop top with some jeans or overalls! Some mamas may even be open to really showing off their belly with a simple lace kimono or cardigan and underwear. By this I don’t mean a boudoir shot, but just something that puts all the focus on your bare belly that’s growing a tiny baby! Two-piece dresses are perfect for showing off your bare bump as well.
For more traditional shots, a long, flowing dress is my go-to recommendation. You’ll want a dress that you can play with a little, so opt for floor length dresses, ideally with a little extra fabric for the ultimate swishing! There are many maternity dresses that are super tight and hug your whole body so you can see every crease, lump and undergarment. While these do emphasize your belly, they generally aren’t the most flattering options.
My favorite dresses for maternity photos are usually an empire waist that flow out from the top of your belly to the ground. You’ll be holding and hugging your belly for most photos so you don’t really need the fabric to be hugging you as well!
There are lots of dress companies that make amazing dresses and there are also rental options!
Here are some favorite spots to purchase:
-Pink Blush (featured in this post!)
Here is a list of places to rent:
The Kindred Soul (affordable way to wear a Reclamation dress)
I suggest avoiding very dark colors and big, distracting patterns, as this hides your baby bump. Subtle patterns are ok, but generally a solid color looks best and helps accentuate your belly. Textures are a nice touch, as they aren’t super distracting, yet add some variety and depth to your photos. My favorite dresses often are lace! I also think gauze/crepe fabric, chiffon, and polyester photograph nicely as well!
Get a Little Pampered Before Your Session
There’s a lot that happens once baby arrives. Often self-care takes a back seat and yoga pants and messy buns take over your wardrobe. Get plenty of sleep the night before (usually this is possible when it’s your first baby on the way) and maybe even take a nice long bath or warm shower beforehand. Take this opportunity to get a little dolled up and pampered before your photo shoot. A manicure is a nice touch, as your hands will be holding your belly a lot. Also, consider having your makeup or hair professionally done. In no way is this required! I want you to feel like yourself, but I also want you to feel beautiful and radiant. Something to consider and I think you’ll be happy you did it!
Styling Details for this session:
Dress
Pink Blush Maternity
Makeup
Beauty by Yoana
Location
Fort Steilacoom Park, Lakewood, Washington