Outdoor Maternity Session in Farmington, Utah
As a mother of 4 I can remember the amazing time of expecting a new baby. I'm not very tall and I felt like I was expanding wider than my height! I remember the first flutters, the first kicks of a new baby inside. My husband would sing songs and read to the baby and I was teaching piano and and feeling excited for a new baby to come to our home.
I didn't have maternity photos back 22 years ago. I did take photos of my growing belly and had a journal of the doctor visits and my feelings at the time. My 2 year-old daughter called me a sloth because I moved slower. She meant it in a good way, that I needed to rest more and I took naps when I could. Growing a new life took extra energy and it was harder to be pregnant with my other little kids.
If I were to have maternity photos here is what I wish I knew,
Wear a long, flowing dress.
A long form fitting dress with show off the baby bump really well. In these sessions she wore a beautiful dress that flattered her figure really well. The color choice is up to you. Some like a lighter color, some choose a bright color, but it depends on your skin tone and what colors look good on you. Solid colors will look better so avoid big patterns, logos, and distracting elements on your clothing. Neutrals are always a good option also.
You can look at your home and see what colors you like to see on your walls. My mom's walls are very bright and she has light cabinets and the home is more more light and airy. My home is more woodsy with alder cabinets, an oak dining table, and wooden blinds so I have a different vibe in my home. I like more natural, earthy colors and tones.
The main thing is to be comfortable and feel confident in what you are wearing. I know how hard it can be to decide on what to wear. Before a photo shoot I changed my dress 4 times. I ordered 2 from amazon that I didn't love and I went with a basic, comfortable dress that would blend with what my family was wearing. Also remember to wear comfortable shoes.
Bring your partner with you.
I know many men don't want photos (in the above session he didn't want any photos), but I got him to be in a few. It's fun to have the partner share the session because you are a family and the memory should be shared together. Your life changes forever when you have a new baby and the partner is definitely involved.
When to have photos taken
Most photographers recommend having photos taken in the third trimester, around 33 weeks pregnant. This is the time when the baby really shows and it's not too soon that you will be in labor during the photo shoot. I know I started to show at 20 weeks and by 40 weeks people said I looked like I was going to pop. So around 33 weeks is ideal.
You could use the maternity photos for a bridal shower invitation. Your baby will love to see what you looked like with him or her inside of you. The whole birth story includes being pregnant with the baby and the experiences you had. The pictures will be a reminder of how you felt and how you looked when you were growing a little human inside of you. The photos are a priceless memory.
