Lisa and Justin’s fall maternity photo session was a favorite of mine. We met right in our hometown at Great Brook State Park in Chelmsford (right on the Carlisle border). This gorgeous park always shows off in the fall. Months in advance we met up for coffee and chatted about a “very fall” session and our dreams came true! I loved getting to know a bit about this couple and their hear their excitement to add a baby to their family. A short time later they found out it was a baby boy!!! So, around Christmas time he will be here.
Lisa and Justin had plenty of questions about what to expect for their maternity and newborn photos, so I thought I could answer some basic maternity photo session questions here for all of you:
How early should we schedule our maternity photos?
After your 12 week mark is a great time to start thinking of the season you’d like your maternity photos taken during. If you are in need of weekends, or have a specific location in mind be sure to reach out with a minimum of 2 months to secure a prime time spot! Remember especially if you want a fall maternity photo session, booking early is key to beat the fall rush.
When is the best time do maternity photos?
I suggest anywhere from week 28-34. I know this varies for every pregnancy, but after 34 weeks mom often feels very uncomfortable as the end draws near.
Do you have a package for Newborn & Maternity photos:
YES! You will save on your maternity & newborn photo sessions when you bundle the two together and you’ll receive extra digital files. I love to capture this sweet time in your family’s story.
What should we wear!?!?!
That is the biggest question! First of all – there is no “right or wrong” here. The key is to feel beautiful and wear something that is comfortable and “you!” If you’re not a dress-up kind of girl, wear jeans! If you love to get a little dolled up – this is a great chance to feel beautiful before being in yoga pants for the next three months.
I find many of my clients (like Lisa pictured below) chose dresses because they show off the bump and are comfortable.
No matter what you choose, be sure that is it a bit snug on the belly to show off the reason we’re doing the session! You want the “star of the show” to stand out.
Dad can wear something that coordinates and “makes sense”. If mom is dressing up, dad should also add an extra layer, a tie, or dress pants to the mix.
What should we bring?
If you’re interested in incorporating props into your session just remember “simple is better.” Something like a significant onesie, stuffed animal, or other baby item is always a cute idea. I do like to encourage clients to bring an ultrasound to the baby’s “first photos” are in the pictures as well. Other than that – just bring a smile! Email me in advance if you have prop questions or are thinking of adding something to your session so we can plan to use that and choose a location in which it is welcome. Keep in mind, many state parks do not allow balloons or confetti due to the possible mess they can leave behind.
I don’t think I want maternity photos – why should we do them?
Maternity photos are often the last photos of you and your spouse before adding a little one. They are a start of a new chapter in your life and marriage. You will look back on these as a wonderful memory. Its amazing how your body can change so much and hold your child in such a beautiful way! If you do have children – this is a time to get them excited about their new sibling! Consider a great time to reflect on the excitement that is to come and the joy of new life!
Are you expecting this year and hoping to do a Maternity Photo Session, I’d love to meet you!
Allie.Photo is a wedding and portrait photographer based in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. I love to photograph people who love life as much as I do. I specialize in photography that is bright and joyful, and promise you will enjoy the entire process. I serve awesome people everywhere within the Greater Boston area to the White Mountains, Cape Cod, and all over New England. Reach out today you’re planning a wedding or need family photos and think we might be a great fit!
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