- Nicole Enjoli
What I always tell my clients is anytime between 30-37 weeks could be the best time. It depends on a few different things. Every pregnancy is different and every woman is going to grow at a different rate. What I know for sure is we want your belly to be nice and round and unmistakably very pregnant. Most women are going to be nice and round by around 30-32-34 weeks. Some women have changes in their face and that can also be something some women might want to consider. Those last 7-10 weeks we tend to grow a lot and quickly so it's important to think about these factors and plan accordingly, booking somewhere in the 3-6 month mark is perfect in my opinion, it gives you time to get things squared away and communicate with me on how your feeling so far and start the communication about your outfit, your location, etc...
The other important thing to think about when thinking about when to actually shoot your session is how you are feeling. If you wait until you are 37 or 38 weeks, you are ready at any moment to possibly give birth, things get uncomfortable, you may not be getting the best sleep at night, your ankles and feet are probably swollen, and there is pressure from your baby getting ready to come out. During a maternity session you want to have some energy, and you want to feel good. If outdoors there will be some walking involved ( bring comfy shoes for that, even if it is just for the walking ) Here in Southern California we get so many beautiful sunny days, we get to shoot outdoors all year...
If you prefer indoors there will be posing under lights... and sometimes even standing in a pose or closing your eyes for a couple seconds can put you off balance with a big belly. It's important not to wait too long so you can enjoy your session. You want to make sure you don't arrive on an empty stomach and make sure you are hydrated. I recommend getting your hair and make up done so you can feel your best ( I have artists / stylists I recommend to you if you request). As for what to wear, I have gowns to choose from, sometimes I can even special order you one, or you can wear something you have picked out yourself. In our studio that is located right where Los Angeles county and Orange County meet you have a little more privacy. You can just drape fabric over your shape, or even bare it all if you want to really capture your pregnant body... Miracle that it is! If you would like to get more information or chat about booking your maternity session contact us here!
