Why maternity photos matter.

When you’re pregnant the months seem to last forever, but it truly passes in the blink of an eye and this special, fleeting time deserves to be documented. There is nothing comparable to pregnancy – our bodies were designed to bring new life into the world and does the most unbelievable things to achieve this. You DESERVE to be celebrated.

Not everyone loves being pregnant. Some of us don’t get the glow, some are aching from day one and can’t wait for it to be over. Even then, your maternity is worth documenting. If not for you, think of your child, years from now. Sitting on the couch, staring at the photos of their mother during the pregnancy. I cherish those few photos of my mother that exist.

When should I schedule my maternity photos?

This depends on a few factors, but generally between 25-34 weeks when that bump is cute and round. Here are a few things to consider when deciding when to book a maternity shoot in Trinidad:

• If this is your first pregnancy, you may take longer to show and can book between 30-34 or even 35 weeks. If this is not your first, it’s normal to start showing earlier and you can book at 30 weeks!
• Your comfort level. For many mothers, pregnancy gets uncomfortable from 34 weeks onwards. Extreme fatigue, bloating and swollen feet are common and you may want to schedule your shoot before you feel too uncomfortable in your skin.
• If you’re having twins, the risk of early delivery is higher and you show much earlier! I would definitely recommend having your shoot around 26-30 weeks before you feel uncomfortable, any potential bed rest or early delivery.

Outdoor or At Home photoshoot?

Maternity sessions are gorgeous whether in the comfort of your home or a beautiful beach at golden hour.

At home, there are no time limits with the light or time of day. We can shoot for extended periods using different areas of your home and with total privacy. Another big perk of indoor shoots – no frizzy hair, no melting makeup, air conditioning on full blast! For maternity shoots with other little kids, being at home where they are most comfortable is another big factor to consider. Plus, you don’t have to think of all the things to bring with you to an outdoor location.

If you like being outdoors and want soft, golden photos then I can recommend lots of stunning outdoor locations for a photoshoot in Trinidad and Tobago. Whether it’s at the beach on the North Coast or amongst the greenery and mountains of Paramin, there’s somewhere for everyone.

I like to shoot my outdoor sessions during golden hour – this is an hour after sunrise and before sunset. It provides the softest, glowy, most flattering light. There’s a reason we suggest these times, because we how how GOOD the light is.

What do I wear to my maternity photoshoot?

Firstly, and MOST importantly, choose clothing that makes you feel confident. Whether thats a flowy dress or a shorts and crop top with your belly out, when you feel good you look good! And that instantly shows in your photos.

Generally, here are the ‘rules’ for choosing an outfit for your maternity photoshoot:

• Long, flowy dresses: Perfect for movement shots and generally very comfortable with your growing bump.
• Two piece sets: Think crop top with a pants or skirt. It shows off your sweet belly and also allows for a quick outfit change to give your gallery some variety.
• Casual wear: With shoots at home, I love to suggest wearing relaxed outfits that you choose daily. Open button jeans or shorts, a cropped tee or cozy sweater feels so right indoors.

In general, stick to neutral, solid and earthy tones that are extremely flattering on your skin tones and blend well with the natural environments. Certain bright colours reflect onto your skin, which can make you look washed out or red – which is why we tell you to avoid bright colours.

Bringing your partners and other children

Sessions will always include solo images of mum, but there’s something extra special about family maternity sessions. These are always a lot more ‘fun’ as we’ve got little ones running around and enjoying this special time with their parents. It’s the perfect opportunity for some sweet family photos and I’m happy to incorporate activities that you like to do as a family.

This time flies in the blink of an eye and you deserve to remember how powerful you are. How you created life.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to me so we can plan your maternity session in Trinidad and Tobago.