Why are they important?
A woman’s body is truly an amazing thing and maternity portraits are a great way to capture just how wonderful we are. Whether you have fallen pregnant for the first time or subsequent pregnancies your body really does enter into an amazing stage in your life. Nine months may feel like a long time but, particularly if you have little ones already, this time really does fly by. All too soon your baby will be here and this precious time you had growing, nurturing and developing a new life will be gone.
Although you will have new exciting challenges to face, this time is worth remembering. Not just for yourself but also for your child who gets to look back and see just how amazing their Mum is. A glimpse into a world and time where they existed but one which they would never be able to see without a record. So are maternity photographs important? Absolutely.
Let’s Celebrate!
Why not celebrate this truly unique time with a maternity portrait? During your 9 months, there will be highs and lows, changes to emotions, skin, hair and body shape. But during this time your body is doing an amazing job, working hard to create a new life. A maternity portrait session focuses on this and captures all of the anticipation and love you have. Leaving you with a timeless portrait that you will be able to look back on with your children, and grandchildren, to show them just how amazing and beautiful you were.
For some women pregnancy is a little more challenging than others. It can leave us exhausted, in pain, possibly with additional unplanned hospital checkups which were not anticipated. Take time out for a portrait session to give you a break from this. One very dear client of mine experienced a very difficult pregnancy told me that they simply wanted to do something which wasn’t clinical. They wanted to take some time to truly celebrate what was happening to their body. After all the additional hospital examinations it was like a breath of fresh air. The session left them with images that will help them remember that, despite all the extra doctors’ exams, they truly did something special for just them and their new baby.
Let all the family in
Whether it is just you and your partner, or other children too, capturing this time when your family bonds and changes is unique. The excitement of becoming parents for the first time. Or knowing you will become a big brother or sister. These feelings and emotions are important and a portrait session with me at Samphire Photography ensures that this time is not forgotten. Cuddles with Mum during this time are so special, and talking to the new baby and little tummy kisses help to strengthen this bond ahead of your baby being born.
What do these sessions involve?
A full maternity session with me lasts 1-2 hours. During this time I capture you as Mum-to-be in a variety of gorgeous gowns and fabrics. Or perhaps, if you are feeling brave enough, in the altogether. It is a relaxed session and I send out a prep guide on how to get ready beforehand. Giving time to treat yourself ahead of coming in is so important.
Many expectant Mums worry that they have never done this before and won’t know how to stand. Well, don’t worry because that is why you can come to an expert. I have plenty of experience in posing women (and men), to make you look your absolute best.
If a full session isn’t for you then why not think about a maternity mini session. These are a 30-minute session and include 3 images.
When to have them?
The best time to have a maternity portrait is between 28-36 weeks. This is an ideal time when your baby bump is really showing but not so late that we risk a trip to the hospital mid-session!
It should also mean that you are still at a stage where you feel fabulous, and moving and posing for your portraits is comfortable.
Do I need to bring anything?
Here at the Samphire studio I have a great selection of amazing dresses and fabrics, which you are very welcome to use for your portraits.
However, if you would like to bring along some of your own clothing that is fine too. In which case, think fitted, to best showcase your tummy. I want you to be comfortable but we also want to see that baby belly, so stretchy fabrics are ideal. Avoid elastic as this can leave indents or red marks on your skin. We’re aiming for naturally smooth skin in the portraits. It’s a good idea to bring two sets of matching underwear to the session – one dark, one light. So if you are not quite brave enough to bare all, we are still able to capture your beautiful bump in all its glory. Remember why you are having this session. Why are maternity photographs important? We want to capture this wondrous time and your incredible body, especially your beautiful baby belly.
Are they worth it?
So when I get asked this question I always answer with a big YES. They are so worth it. Why are maternity photographs important? This magical time in your life will pass so capture it to look back on. It is simply the most perfect gift you can give to your unborn child.
Why are Maternity Photographs important? by Samphire Photography
So if you want to book in please do get in touch.
I look forward to hearing from you xx
