But there is something special, whimsical maybe about a pregnant mother thinking about the wonderful gift that is about to come into her life. So, I started researching baby and pregnancy photographers. I wanted to see what was available in my area.
I found a few, but the prices (insert "gulp" here!) I am all for paying people what they earn (ie taking amazing pictures) but the price for things sometimes is just way beyond what it needs to be. A photo shoot could cost us more than a crib! Babies cost enough, we couldn't justify paying those prices when we had other things we needed for the baby and other expenses coming for baby.
I didn't do weekly pictures of my bump. In fact I didn't really get many pictures at all. My husband hates taking pictures and he hates being in pictures, so that didn't help my cause. I wanted to make sure that I got some pictures of that precious time in my life, no matter how big I was!
So, I contacted my Mom and asked if she wouldn't mind snapping a couple pictures when that time came. She's not a professional, but I knew that they would be perfect for what we wanted.
I didn't wear a beautiful, long flowing dress. I didn't go bare skin. It was just me being me, fat face and all.
It was not on the top of my list, so when "that time came," I kind of forgot! Ooops! How could that have happened?!? (Anyone relate? ;) )
Seven days overdue, and two days before our bundle was born, we finally got it done! My Mom dusted off her camera and I went out into the beautiful fall leaves. And I am glad we did!
I look at my face and I judge myself. But then I look at my bump and remember all the wonders of carrying that little person inside me for nine whole months! I remember telling my husband we were going to have a baby and the joy of sharing it with our family and friends. I recall the tired days on the couch and feeling her first movements. I remember the pouring out of blessing on our family from so many as we began our journey. I remember all the amazing moments since she's been born. What a wonder pregnancy is!
And I know that though it is not all captured in the photos but it's in my eyes. These pictures will help me remember.
Whether you wear the flowing dress, flaunt your bare skinned bump, or just be you; whether you hire a photographer, take selfies, or talk your Mom into it doesn't matter. Do what makes you feel comfortable, what will help you capture the moment. But I do recommend that capture those moments before their gone. It passes all too quickly.
No matter what you choose, be prepared! Here are some tips to help.
TIPS:
- Casual Photo Shoots
- If you don't know a photographer, ask your friends, they might! See if they know someone who would be willing to take a few casual pictures of you and your bump. Discuss payment or thank them with a gift!
- Have Photo Ideas With You.
- Scour ideas on Pinterest! Click here to get some. Ask your photographer if you can send some to them, or bring them with you and show them what you want. Or use them yourself for a reference.
- If your idea needs a prop, bring it with you. Most times these items are personal, so you'll have them. If it's generic, ask your photographer. They may have something.
- Bring a Variety of Outfits!
- Some photographers provide those, so that's ok. But you know us women, we like options and we don't always like something when we put it on later! Being pregnant, I found that happened even more often. So, be prepared for it. Last thing you want is to feel even more uncomfortable because you don't like your outfit!
- Bring Water & Lip Gloss!
- Especially if you're pictures are being done in a studio, under lights, you'll be glad you did!
- Make an Alternative Weather Plan.
- It may rain, or something else. So if you want to go outdoors, have a back-up plan.
- Don't Stress.
- Seriously, don't. Yes, you want pictures, but they don't have to be a stress point! Just have fun and be you. Let whoever has the camera do the rest. Whatever your pictures, I'm sure they'll be beautiful.
- Deals!
- If you plan on hiring a photographer, look for someone who offers a deal by doing your pregnancy and newborn photos.
Hope this helps! Remember, just relax (as much as you can), and say "cheese!"
Until next time,
Canadian Country Mama
