Scheduling a maternity session with your photographer (or should I say me?), is an exciting time for a future mom to be. First of all, if you are thinking to make one it means that you are at least halfway through your pregnancy and the time of meeting your little one is inevitably coming towards you. That's why keeping in mind these couple of tips won't hurt your planning time but will only elevate your photo experience to the next level.

1. Pick the best timing.

In my opinion, the best time to shoot is between the seventh or eight months of your pregnancy. You still feel pretty comfortable to move and get your photos taken. Plus the belly looks pretty round and cute.

2. The weather outside.

I think it's a very important point to keep in mind while picking the right location for the maternity session. I know a lot of you like the allure of a garden dreamy set for your photos. But ask yourself this first. Are you ready to handle 100F degree weather outside? And don't forget the humidity in the summertime. Even a perfectly planned photoshoot can be ruined if you don't feel comfortable. In this way, consider renting a photo studio. Believe me, you will bless the AC hundreds and hundreds of times.

3. The restroom.

Don't be surprised here. If you are pregnant and you are reading this you probably know what I'm talking about right now. Always consider the closest rest areas if you shoot outside. This way you won't have to worry about something as basic as this. Plus you won't lose the precious minutes of your shoot while running like crazy around the city looking for the magic door sign.

4. The wardrobe.

Whatever you pick for your photo session: a gorgeous flowy dress or a modern contemporary suite ( because why not, right?) make sure it fits you right and it flatters and emphasizes your belly. Sure thing you don't want to look bigger than you are. What you want to do is to show off your juicy belly. That's the whole purpose of a maternity shoot.

5. To bring or not to bring, that is a question.

And I'm talking about your partner here. To be honest, it's absolutely up to you. The partner can calm you down during the photo session, make you laugh, and even carry all the heavy stuff ( that's the main reason to bring him, duh). But in the meantime, it all depends on the idea you have in mind for your maternity session. So there is no right or wrong answer here. Either way, the shoot is about the anticipation of your little one and you during this wonderful time. Dad can play the role of a pleasant bonus.

As a conclusion to everything written above, have fun!

Getting ready for a baby can be a nerve-wracking time, but it’s also a time to celebrate! As busy and complicated as it can be, you shouldn’t forget that you’re about to bring new life into the world, and a moment as huge as this deserves the best photos.