Maternity Photos You'll Cherish Forever

I have to admit, having a photographer document my ever-expanding body was about the last thing I ever wanted to do during my first pregnancy. And I mean body, not bump. As my friend so eloquently put it at my baby shower “It looks like Princess Fiona (from Shrek) ate you” Hmmmm - nice! Thanks for that.

However, I was lucky enough that there was a snowstorm during what should have been a Newborn photography training day. The baby who’d been booked to model wasn’t able to get to us. As I was 8 months pregnant, the other trainees asked if I would mind modelling for them instead? Through gritted teeth I agreed, and I’m so glad I did, because I don’t think anyone has ever regretted getting Maternity Photos.

I do however, know plenty of people who have seen my Wall Art of maternity photos when they’ve come to my studio for their Newborn or family photoshoots, and said how they wish they’d left their insecurities and excuses behind to have documented the beauty of their own pregnancy. After all, they were creating life, and it is one of life’s true miracles.

I’ve learnt in the years since that first pregnancy, that my children don’t care if I’m feeling a bit fat, or having a bad hair day, they love me because I am their mother, and they are so intrigued that they grew in my tummy, and love penning through the albums I have of my pregnancy and their early newborn days.

I must admit, I love a beautiful figure-hugging dress for a maternity photoshoot. More recently though, I have found that so much can be done just with lighting or a piece of flowing material. I have fabrics and dresses that can be tossed and draped to stunning effect. I always recommend my maternity clients make a day of it by getting their hair and make-up done first, and maybe grabbing their other half for a nice lunch after… Doesn’t that sound nice?

Studio Maternity Photoshoot using royal blue sheer material

I recommend booking a shoot as early as possible to make sure I can fit you in. I’m often fully booked up to 3 months or more in advance. Booking after your 12-week scan is ideal (this is also the best time to book your newborn shoot believe it or not). I book Maternity shoots in at around 30-34 weeks. This is a time that your belly is nice and round, but before you start to feel the effects of carrying around the baby weight. Although it’s tempting to wait until the end of your pregnancy to capture your belly, you should stick with the suggested time frames so that you are comfortable.

Of course, this date isn’t set in stone, if you find you are having a difficult pregnancy and are at risk of being admitted into hospital early, I will do my best to photograph you earlier. After being on bed rest from 21 weeks with one pregnancy, and 28 weeks with another, I understand how it can be hard to be in love with your pregnancy during difficult times. However, it is after these struggles that your maternity photos will have more meaning than ever.

If you’re expecting twins, triplets, or other multiples, I’d advise you to have your maternity photos taken during your second trimester at around 24 weeks. Your belly will appear bigger during the second trimester since you’re carrying more than one. You will be more comfortable though and be able to move around with ease.

Monochrome backlit couple cuddling pregnant belly for at home natural maternity photoshoot

I offer maternity photoshoots in my Hertford Studio, and Lifestyle photoshoots at home or on location around Hertfordshire, Essex and Cambridge. I’m a particular fan of photographing maternity shoots out in nature.

Either way, if you’re willing to strip-down I can take incredibly tasteful nudes or photos of you draped in material.

Wardrobe wise, I prefer Classic and Simple. Something that doesn’t date the year like lace, chiffon, knitted cardigans and sheer fabrics. Feeling beautiful and confident is what matters most.

A few top tips to keep in mind when planning your maternity shoot. Make sure your belly is moisturised, and don’t wear a tight-fitting bra or clothing immediately before your session to avoid marks on your skin.

I always do my best to ensure you feel comfortable. If you feel great during your maternity photoshoot, you can expect your photos to be everything you dreamed of (and more).

Maternity photoshoot on location in beautiful green flowing dress

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by Joanne Lewis • 4 December 2020

A picture of Santa and me...

12 Day Christmas Giveaway - Day 3

by Joanne Lewis • 3 December 2020

... Buy one, Get one Free*

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Unbelievable Photography deals Black Friday 2020

by Joanne Lewis • 26 November 2020

I couldn't let Black Friday 2020 go by without some amazing deals for my wonderful and valued customers... I've missed you all so much this year, but have loved the few shoots I was able to squeeze in between lockdowns and Home Education. With all the optimism I can muster for next year (I am naturally a pretty positive person) I am offering some spectacular deals on vouchers for my Hertford Studio and outdoor or on-location sessions next year (packages may be given as gifts, but please confirm preferred locations around Hertfordshire and some parts of London, Cambridgeshire and Essex with me before booking).