It’s no secret: MOTHERHOOD IS MY JAM. Why I waited so long to jump on this bandwagon, I dunno, but I’m sure it had to do with me becoming a mama myself only five short years ago. I know all of the emotions of excitement and anticipation to finally hold that babe earthside which makes maternity sessions so special for me, not to mention, a celebration of how AMAZING our bodies are for growing a human from scratch. That alone deserves to documented in a beautiful way. 

But even though I say all this, I didn’t have a maternity session done with my first born. And I’ll be the first one to admit that I regret it. I wish I had someone who explained to me how I NEED these images to look back on during this special season. So let me be that person for you: BOOK THE MATERNITY SESSION, BABE. DO IT.

For all of my sessions, I work hand-in-hand to customize an experience for my mamas/families, but here is some general advice when planning your maternity session. 

1. TIMING
The best time to do your maternity session is around 32-36 weeks - it’s that perfect window where you’re clearly showing, but (hopefully) not miserable. Being on your feet may get harder and swelling may set in as you get closer to your due date. Make sure you book your photographer sometime during that window at least 6 weeks in advance!

2. STYLING
For my one hour sessions, I suggest two outfits: one where we’ll pose you with daddy, and another one for solo shots. I have a client closet that mamas can borrow from, but there’s also maternity gown rental companies you can rent from instead of buying a dress you’ll never wear again. And for a little extra, getting your hair and makeup done is always a treat. Definitely not mandatory, but during a time where I didn’t feel motivated to do it myself, it was the ultimate act of self care so I could feel beautiful at the hands of a professional.

3. LITTLE DETAILS
Over the years, I have drifted away at the use of props because the connection and emotion is my main focus, but I do feel little things can help enhance your story. A necklace with the baby’s name, a sonogram image, a handmade family quilt; think of subtle ways to add details without the busyness. 

4. EMBRACE YOUR NOW
I didn’t have perfect pregnant belly (it doesn’t exist, btw), and I felt like it wouldn’t photograph “how it should,” whatever that means. It may be difficult to accept your changing body, but it’s beautiful because God made it this way to perform a miracle. I wish I had looked at it from that perspective and done these to document this season and have something to pass down to Piper in the future.

Would love to hear from my past maternity clients and others - what would you say to a mama who’s unsure if she wants to do a maternity session? Having them as a keepsake now, what do those images mean to you? Let me know in the comments!