If you follow EmmiClaire Photography on Instagram, you’ve probably already heard the news – Ben and I are expecting! Needless to say, I’ve had maternity on the mind A LOT lately. Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, but if you’ve ever experienced it, you know it can also be miserably uncomfortable. It’s time to get real guys. From first trimester morning sickness and exhaustion to third trimester swollen feet and so-pregnant-I-can-barely-walk discomfort, maternity is no picnic. That’s why I want to share some of my thoughts on staying comfortable during your maternity session.

Schedule Your Session for the Right Time in Your Pregnancy

There’s a lot of advice out there about the best time in your pregnancy to schedule your maternity session. The general rule of thumb is to schedule at the beginning of your third trimester – around 30 weeks. Regardless of when you choose to schedule your session, the goal is to capture your beautiful growing bump while also staying comfortable during your maternity session. For some, that may mean scheduling earlier in their pregnancy. This is especially true if you’re carrying multiples or experiencing a high risk pregnancy). If your baby bump is not as prominent as you’d like for your photos, you may want to schedule later. Ultimately, it’s your choice, but scheduling earlier in the third trimester is advisable. After all, once you reach the third trimester, baby could make his or her appearance any day.

Consider the Time of Year, Time of Day, and Location

If you’re scheduling your session during seasons of extreme weather (winter or summer), consider…

1. selecting a time of day when the temperature of your outdoor location won’t cause discomfort
2. selecting an indoor location with lots of beautiful light.

Have your heart set on an outdoor location during the winter time? Select the warmest time of day and bring plenty of layers to cuddle up in between photos. If you have your heart set on an outdoor location during the summer, consider a sunrise or sunset session when temperatures are cooler. Keep in mind that home and studio photo sessions can be just as beautiful and perhaps MORE comfortable than outdoor locations.

Wear Clothes That Make You Feel Good

It’s not uncommon for expecting mothers to feel uncomfortable in their changing bodies, but remember that everything you’re experiencing is helping create a beautiful new life. Find an outfit that makes you feel good, but also highlights your beautiful growing baby bump! Maxi dresses – either long and flowing or form fitting according to your taste and comfort – are great for emphasizing your bump. If a dress feel a little too formal for you, everyday clothing can be just as beautiful! A long lace kimono or cozy sweater photograph just as beautifully!

Pamper Yourself

It’s important to take plenty of time for self-care before you deliver your newborn bundle of joy. So why not use your maternity session as an opportunity for a little pampering? Schedule a pregnancy-approved massage to help you relax the day before your session. Enjoy a mani-pedi. On the morning of your session, have your hair and makeup done by a professional. Whatever makes you feel your absolute best, do it! Once baby arrives, time will likely be in short supply, so soak up some of those last glorious days of self-indulgence with plenty of pampering.

Bring Snacks

If you’ve scheduled a session for a time when you’d normally be noshing or your session is longer than an hour, bring plenty of snacks and water. Pregnancy “hanger” is a real thing, so the more content your tummy is, the better!

Ready to chat about scheduling your maternity session? Contact EmmiClaire Photography today!