So you are having a baby!! Congratulations! Photographing mother’s to be is one of my favorite kinds of portrait sessions. There are lots of possibilities for meaningful heartfelt photographs. Relationships seem to deepen with the commitment to a growing family. There is joy and anticipation. Eight months is an ideal time for photographs. Mom is showing enough and still mobile and comfortable. So, if you are one of those mothers who is up for some maternity photographs, I have eight suggestions for a successful portrait photography session.

1. Afternoon Sessions: For a late afternoon photography session have a restful afternoon. Come to your portrait session well hydrated and comfortably fed.

2. Clothing for Mom: Keep it simple. No stripes, patterns, or logos. Solid colors work best. I like the pastels for beach photography or natural colors. Wear something that makes you feel attractive and shows off your belly. Look for form fitting clothes. If the clothing is too loose, the shape of the belly will be lost. Make sure you can sit comfortably in whatever clothing you have decided to wear.

3. Bare Belly: If at some point you would like to show your bare belly avoid elastic that leaves marks. Yoga pants work well. Bring some wraps or scarfs with you. I also have some I will bring along.

4. Hair & Make-up: Have your hair done the day of the session if you have a specific look you enjoy. Make-up should be natural and what you commonly use for daywear. At some point I will be photographing your hands so your nails should be neat, freshly manicured if possible.

5. Clothing for Dad: Your clothes should coordinate and complement each other, but not match.  Solid colors are again a great choice.  Long sleeves and linen is a beautiful look.

6. Siblings: If there are siblings make sure to include them in some of the photographs. Their clothing should blend with whatever mom and dad are wearing.

7: Snacks: Bring some snacks and drinks. Relax and just be yourself, I will take care of the rest.

8 Extra Clothes: There is a chance if we are at the beach you may get wet; bring towels and an extra pair of clothes to change into when we are done.

Most of all, relax and enjoy this peaceful time with your partner. Soon, these moments will be hard to find once your little one arrives!!