How To Choose A Maternity Photographer That’s Right For You

When you think about choosing a maternity photographer, I know it can seem daunting to say the least. There are so many things we are constantly thinking about and worrying over during pregnancy, and sometimes it seems like the last thing to consider is maternity photos! I promise you that you will never regret making the decision to freeze this moment in time forever, and be able to look back at where your family all began. As a mama and a photographer, I wanted to share a few tips on how to choose the perfect photographer that’s right for you! 

Decide On A Photography Style

This is definitely the first most important thing to consider when you begin your search for a photographer. There are so many different styles of photography out there, it can seem impossible to choose one! Some photographers focus on a lot of posing and studio lighting, while others go with a more natural, lifestyle approach. I personally lean into the lifestyle approach combined with a fine art lens to give you timeless and beautiful images. Lately I’ve been using a lot of gorgeous florals in my sessions to bring in some pops of color while maintaining an organic feel. The Hive Palm Beach has some of the best floral arrangements, and what is featured in this posts’ images! 

Do You Want To Include Your Partner (Or Kids)

This is a big thing to consider as well. Personally, I think that including your partner is a beautiful time to bond with just the two of you before your baby arrives. You get to reconnect on a deep, loving level, and look back on the photos together for years to come! There is always time for some solo portraits, of course. If you already have children, including them in the session is a great way to show them all the love and attention before they have a new little sibling in their lives. 

Do You Want A Full-Service Photography

Full-service photography is when your photographer offers hair and makeup services, wardrobe, and more. As a full-service photographer myself, this is (of course!) what I recommend. It takes all the stress out of planning your look before your session; you get to come into the studio in sweats and get pampered while relaxing. Other photographers will not provide any extra services, which is completely fine; however, as a mom-to-be, that adds just more to your already full plate. 

Are You Looking For A Long-Term Photographer

Do you want a one-off session with a photographer, or do you want to build a relationship with the same photographer over many sessions, and work together as your family grows? It’s a good idea to research if photographers offer any packages for their work. For example, I offer clients the First Year Collective! It locks in sessions together from bump to baby, and is a relaxing, fun process that ends with an heirloom album or custom gallery wall. 

Do You Want Custom Frames Or Heirloom Album

Make sure the photographer you choose offers these services! With a full-service photography experience, at the end of your time together the photographer will offer an heirloom album or custom frames for a gallery wall. For instance, I provide both options to all my clients, and once we have made the decision we work together after the sessions to create beautiful artwork the whole family will love for generations.

Where The Session Takes Place

This final tip is deeply important, as well! Do you want a studio session, and outdoor session, or both? Make sure you research what kind of studio space any photographer has, if they have one to themselves at all. Sometimes they rent different studio spaces if they don’t have their own. Other photographers have all the options in one! My studio has an additional back garden space that I adore, and you can see in the images below. It’s wonderful to be able to have a mix of indoor-outdoor within the same studio space.

As any mama or expectant mama knows, there are so many things to consider throughout your pregnancy. Maternity photography may seem overwhelming, but with these tips I hope I helped clarify the process for you! Of course, if you’re looking for a fine art maternity photographer in the Palm Beach County area, let’s get in touch! I would love to work with you to capture your memories with a fine art maternity session. Additionally, check out my maternity portfolio to see more of my work. Lastly, read all about my luxury photography experience, and follow me on Instagram for the latest posts and announcements.