Maternity Photographer – 5 Helpful Tips How To Choose the Right One
Maternity pictures are a wonderful way to celebrate your pregnancy and document your journey into motherhood while also pampering and focusing on yourself for a day.
To create memories you’ll love and cherish, finding the right maternity photographer for your needs and expectations is crucial. With so many options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming, and you might not know where to start. With some research and the considerations below, I’m confident that you will find a photographer who can capture your beauty and the beauty of your pregnancy in a way you will treasure for a lifetime.
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Related: How to prepare for your maternity photoshoot
Make sure you are comfortable around your maternity photographer
One of the most important things, if not the most important, is to ensure that you feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed around your photographer and in their space if it is a studio session. Not only will the experience be significantly less fun and memorable if you are anxious or uncomfortable, but there is also no amount of editing that can fix a worried look or tense expression – and tension doesn’t just show in the face. It also shows through posture and hands/fingers.
Once you have preselected one or more photographers, call them and maybe even set up an in-person consultation so you can meet and get to know them before your actual photo session.
Related: When to schedule your maternity photo session
Check out the maternity photographer’s portfolio
Looking at a photographer’s portfolio is essential for several reasons. First, you want to ensure that you like their style – bright and airy, moody, and true to life. Some photographers specialize in studio photography, while others work strictly outdoors. Some will pose and direct you. Others have more of a documentary/candid approach. By looking at their portfolio, you’ll be able to tell whether or not their style matches your vision.
Checking their portfolio will also show you their skill level. An experienced photographer will show pictures that demonstrate consistent quality in terms of proper lighting, exposure, colors, focus/sharpness, posing, etc. Be aware that, sadly, there are photographers that use images from other photographers to advertise their business.
Read reviews and when in doubt ask for references
Reviews and references can give you further insight into how a photographer operates, treats their clients, and resolves potential issues. Just like with any other businesses, you look up online, make sure to read reviews on multiple platforms.
Pay attention to what the maternity photographer offers
Every photographer runs their business a little differently. Some offer style and concept consultations, others have a client closet filled with gowns you can use during your photo shoot. Some may even include hair and make-up so you get pampered before stepping in front of the camera. There will also be photographers that only offer digital files, print products, or a combination of both.
Be sure to ask what is offered and what is included so you know what to expect.
Hire a maternity photographer who runs a legal business
A legally-setup photographer is likely to be more reliable and professional. It will give you peace of mind knowing that you are working with someone who takes their profession and business seriously. It can also provide you with some protection if something goes wrong. For example, if photos are lost or corrupted, a legally-run business will most likely carry liability insurance that might help cover any expenses, or they are part of organizations like Professional Photographers of America, which help with recovering lost images. While not a requirement to be a legal business, oftentimes, these photographers will have a contract in place that will outline all terms, rights, and obligations on both sides.
