If you’re planning to get professional maternity portraits, you know that this amazing, joyous, and, at times, terrifying and painful journey is one you want to celebrate now and memorialize forever. Perhaps you have a vision of how you want your session to go, how you want it to look. It’s great to have high expectations (and you should!) but it can also be stressful to worry about it not turning out the way you’ve always dreamed. These are my best recommendations to help you get stunning maternity portraits that you’re excited to hang on your walls.

1. FIND A PHOTOGRAPHER AND RESERVE YOUR SESSION EARLY

Many photographers (especially those who will hold your hand every step of the way) are booked out in advance. So, start looking for your photographer early on in your pregnancy and then reserve your session for a date that falls within your second trimester, between 28 and 35 weeks. Reserving your date early will give you plenty of time to plan everything with your photographer so there’s not a last-minute rush.

2. DRESS FOR THE OCCASION

Once you’ve found your photographer and set a date, start thinking about what you’re going to wear. What you wear effects the vibe of your photos and is one of the biggest decisions to make when preparing for a portrait session. Often, photographers will have a styling guide, a client closet, or both and are happy to relieve you of the mental load of wardrobe selection. They will guide you (and your partner + any children you already have) to wear something that will ensure your photos match the style of their portfolio (which is hopefully, one of the reasons you picked them). Take the time to also plan undergarments and make sure they are not going to show through your outfit or peak out from under it.

3. PLAN YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP

I love doing my own hair and makeup. It’s fun and therapeutic for me. But for a lot of women, especially pregnant women, it’s a chore. If that describes you, consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally. Your photographer may have recommendations for a hair and makeup artist, or they may provide one with their services. Either way, plan it early so you know your hair and makeup artist(s) will be available on your session day. If getting dolled up is not your thing it is also okay to go without getting your hair done or wearing any makeup.

4. BRING PROPS

Think about bringing along personal items that hold significance to you and your partner, such as baby shoes, ultrasound images, or a favorite children's book. These props can add a personal touch to your photos and make them even more special. Let your photographer know what props you are planning to bring so they can think of creative ways to incorporate them into your session.

5. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Your photographer already has a flow and prompts planned to create specific poses and compositions. But if you have a vision in mind or a specific pose you want, let your photographer know ahead of time. They will work together with you to make sure all your expectations are met.