For many women, pregnancy is an unpleasant experience. Their bodies are changing rapidly, and not always in ways that they are pleased with. Acne, swelling, weight gain, and stretch marks are all common pregnancy side effects that can make women feel unattractive.

While some pregnant women may feel great, many others are self-conscious about their appearance. During maternity photo shoots, this self-consciousness can be a hindrance, resulting in unnatural or awkward photos.

A professional maternity photo shoot is the best way for many expecting mothers to remember their pregnancy and chronicle their journey to motherhood. Here are some maternity photo shoot tips to help you look and feel your best.

Find a Photographer you Like

The photographer is the most important aspect of looking beautiful in your photos. Find a professional photographer with strong technical skills, experience, and a specialization in pregnancy photography. A skilled maternity photographer will know how to light, pose, and photograph you in angles that highlight your face and body.

Choose a photographer whose style appeals to you the most. There are numerous styles available—do you prefer in-home lifestyle maternity? Maternity in a studio? A light and airy palette? Modern fashionista who loves bright colors? Bohemian chic? What is belly boudoir? You can ensure that you will get the images you want by selecting your photographer based on their style.

Coming for the Shoot

Maternity photos are best taken when you are 28-32 weeks along in your third trimester if you are expecting a single child (around 7 – 8 months pregnant). Your belly is beautifully round, but you are still at ease posing. Twins (or more) tend to arrive much earlier than singletons, so expectant mothers with twins (or more) should come in around 26 – 30 weeks.

Makeup and Hair Professionals

Professional makeup and hair are highly recommended. This will not only make your photographer’s job easier, but you will also feel beautiful and confident during your session. Speak with your makeup artist about how you want your makeup to look.

Professional makeup is typically heavier and more colorful than everyday makeup, which is fine. Whether your photo shoot is in natural light or under studio lights, your make-up will look great. If it’s not in the budget, your going-out-on-a-hot-date makeup and hair will suffice! Natural-looking false lashes can really draw attention to your eyes.

Learning How to Pose

Allow your photographer to direct your posing so that you look your best. Maternity photos differ from other portraits in that they focus on you, your personality, feelings, and the bond you share with your much-anticipated child. Many maternity poses express emotions and connection to your belly, such as hands on the belly and eyes looking down. Other maternity poses emphasize your body’s lovely curves.

Know What to Wear

When it comes to outfits, there are a few pointers that will make you feel more beautiful and prepared for the session. Again, the final decision is yours, but I would strongly advise you to make comfort a priority in any outfit you choose.

Wearing clothes that are too tight or restrict your movement too much will make you uncomfortable, no matter how much you enjoy having your photos taken or how beautiful you look on the day of the session. The pictures tend to reflect that discomfort. Comfortable and easy-to-move-in outfits are a huge plus.