While your pregnancy may feel like a lifetime, your little one will arrive before you know it. Therefore, it’s essential to capture this unique chapter, and not just with your smartphone. You need a professional maternity photoshoot to do it justice, and it only takes a few hours to produce photos you’ll look back on for life. Use the following guide to prepare for the appointment with the photographer. 

A Brief Guide to Planning Your Maternity Photoshoot

1. Choose the Right Time

The best time to schedule maternity photos is when your baby belly is visible. While it could be pushed back even further, you’re more likely to be uncomfortable in the last weeks of your pregnancy, which can make it harder to pose and move around. You’ll also want to ensure that the photographer has a spot in their schedule at this time, so start contacting them no later than three or four months into pregnancy.

2. Work With the Photographer

Long before the shoot, see if you can meet up with the photographer in person to discuss the details. Together, you can brainstorm the perfect setting for the photos, whether it’s indoors on an antique sofa or in the woods during golden hour. In some cases, they may be able to provide multiple maternity dresses to wear during the shoot, so there are several looks to choose from. You can also ask them how to do your makeup and hair for the best results.

3. Consider the Pros & Cons of Outdoor Shoots

If you’re thinking of taking photos outside, you’ll have the greatest chance of getting dramatic, professional photos, thanks to the natural light of the sun. With a built-in set—you won’t need to set up props or furniture in an outdoor environment. However, you’ll also have to consider the challenges that might arise, including inclement weather. These could affect the outfits, your hair, or cause the shoot to be canceled altogether. Therefore, check the forecast as the shoot day approaches and come up with an indoor backup plan just in case.

If you’re interested in setting up a maternity photoshoot, turn to Meredith Struebing Photography of Saint Charles, MO. She is proud to offer maternity gowns for her clients, so you can save money on expensive garments and still wear multiple looks. Meredith has over 20 years of experience in the area, and she’s proud to offer hair and makeup advice. To view her work, visit the website or call (636) 255-4679 to schedule an appointment.