How to Prepare for Nude Pregnancy Portraits

250 babies are born every single minute. That’s a lot of beautiful babies being brought into the world every day!

Clearly, the world is also full of pregnant ladies, just counting down to their big day. Many women choose to mark it by taking maternity portraits.

Having professional photographs taken during pregnancy helps capture the wonder and provides a lasting visual reminder of the time. There is a wide range of photography styles available.

Of them all, nude pregnancy portraits add an extra level of vulnerability and realness to the images. However, many women can feel a little nervous about them!

Are you thinking of having nude maternity photographs taken? Allow us to alleviate your nerves and help you get ready for the occasion.

Keep reading to discover 7 top tips for preparing for nude pregnancy portraits.

1. Time it Right

You can, of course, decide to schedule your session at any point during your pregnancy. It’s totally up to you and your specific wants and needs.

It’s always worth thinking about timing, though.

Certain time periods tend to be more conducive to a positive experience. For example, organizing a session towards the end of a pregnancy can pose certain challenges. You might feel physically uncomfortable, and be unable to stand for longer periods of time.

Equally, certain poses may become harder; some women feel more self-conscious of their bodies. Many women prefer to have their photos taken before these factors come into play.

2. Book Ahead

Knowing the perfect time for your session is one thing. Being able to book it as another.

Photographers get busy! It isn’t uncommon for them to be fully booked out weeks in advance. For that reason, it’s always recommended to book your session well ahead of time.

Think ahead to when you want your maternity portraits taken. If you’re unsure when will be best, try contacting the photographer. They’ll be able to suggest the best times and book your session accordingly.

3. Choose the Right Photographer

A quick search for photographers reveals just how many there are to choose between!

Their styles, standards, experience levels, and charges can vary dramatically. You want to find the perfect photographer for you.

Be sure to do some research ahead of time. Almost all of them will have an online presence. Browse through their websites and portfolios to find out more about them, and see examples of their work.

You’ll quickly realize which will best suit your needs.

Still unsure? Ask around. Your friends and family may be able to recommend a photographer as well.

4. Communicate Concerns

Let’s imagine you’ve found the perfect photographer and booked your session.

You might begin to feel a mixture of apprehension and excitement! After all, stripping off in front of a stranger can be a daunting prospect.

It’s important to talk to your photographer about any concerns and preferences you have. Some women feel self-conscious about scarring and stretch marks. Understandably, they don’t want to feature them in the photos.

Talk with your photographer about your preferences ahead of time. It’s their job to accommodate any desires you have. However, they need to know about them first!

5. Understand the Process

Speaking with your photographer helps in other ways too.

It’s a chance to ask questions and understand what will happen in the session itself. Knowing what to expect is a good way to alleviate worries and concerns.

Suddenly, the mystery is removed. You’re fully aware of what’s to come.

Some photographers even offer prior consultation.

You go and meet them in person, and possibly see the studio as well. Both steps help to make you more familiar with what’s to come. You’ll feel more comfortable when it’s eventually time for the shoot.

Need further inspiration? Here’s why maternity photos are so special.

6. Live a Healthy Lifestyle in the Lead-Up

You’re probably doing this anyway!

However, it’s worth mentioning nonetheless. You want to look your absolute best in your pregnancy photos. In that endeavor, try to eat, drink and live as healthily as possible in the days leading up to the shoot.

Avoid fatty, greasy, and sugary foods; drink plenty of water, and try to get your beauty sleep!

Doing so will work wonders for your complexion. Your skin will be hydrated and your hair will look luscious. Looking great often makes you feel just as good.

7. Think Nails, Hair, and Makeup

Next up, it’s important to think about your personal grooming!

Your hands and feet play an unlikely starring role in maternity pictures.

You might not expect it, but they’re often a central feature in each photo. Remember, you’ll be hugging your beautiful belly and posing in all sorts of ways that show them off. Be sure to get a manicure and pedicure before the shoot.

Thinking about getting hair removal on your body and/or face? We recommend doing it a few days before the shoot. This will give your skin enough time to recover and look its best.

Hair and makeup are fundamental considerations as well. Remember, you won’t be wearing any clothes! Hair and makeup become even more important.

Getting a professional to help with them will make a big difference.

Doing it yourself? Here are some top tips for doing your own makeup prior to a photo shoot.

Time to Book Your Nude Pregnancy Portraits

There you have it: 7 top tips for preparing properly for nude pregnancy portraits.

Many mothers-to-be decide to mark their pregnancy by getting maternity photos taken. It’s the perfect way to remember such a unique and special time. Nude portraits, in particular, can show off the rawness and beauty of the occasion.

Interested in booking your maternity portraits or learning more about them? Get in touch today.