Planning Maternity Photos in Walnut Creek

So you want to take maternity photos…

Once the wild ride of the first trimester comes to an end, you might start noticing your growing belly! Around this time is common to start thinking about how you’d like to document your pregnancy. Not to try to make a pregnant gal cry, but this time is precious – once it’s gone, it’s gone. I always say, even if just for you, take the maternity photos. Plus, Walnut Creek has so many dreamy locations, your maternity photos will look magical!

When should you plan for maternity photos?

This answer will depend on you, but for most women, there is a sweet spot between 30-32 weeks where you’re rocking an awesome bump, but you’re not TOO uncomfortable and can still handle walking around for 30 minutes. I’ve had some mamas get dressed up for their photoshoot with me, and then head to their baby shower, or the other way around! If it’s your first pregnancy, you can go towards the later end, if it’s not, then plan your maternity photos a bit earlier (same for multiples). Also take into consideration your location. Walnut Creek has lots of hills, and if your heart is set on maternity photos surrounded by the mountains, it might be wise to plan on a bit earlier as well.

All that to say, no pregnancy is the same, and each plan should be customized to your particular needs! Your photographer will also help guide you through these considerations as well.

What maternity dress to wear for your session?

There are so many options these days for amazing photo shoot ready maternity dresses, and with flowy dresses being super popular, even non-maternity dresses can be a great option! My favorite storefront for maternity dresses is Nordstrom in Walnut Creek or Nordstrom Rack in Pleasant Hill. They have flowy dresses galore, and I love that you can try them on as opposed to buying online and possibly not liking the fit. Having the ability to try on the dress is especially important if you are opting for a non maternity dress for your photos. If you’re on online shopper through and through, Baltic Born has amazing options for high quality dresses. Pink Blush also has some amazing options in their maternity collection.

Another option is to ask if your photographer has a client closet. Mine for example has a lot of high end dresses that might not be practical to purchase for a one time photo session. This gorgeous piece, for example (a favorite with my clients), is definitely a photo shoot dress, not an every day dress!

Additional maternity dress considerations

• Flowy dresses are always going to photograph well, but do make sure there’s some shape to the dress, like an empire waist or smocked bodice dress.
• Make sure you feel confident in it! Pregnancy can make us feel all sorts of ways about our bodies – wear something that compliments what you like, and hides anything you feel less than confident about.

Where are the best spots in Walnut Creek for maternity photos?

This is another area where I’m going to suggest something customized to you (are you seeing a trend?) Some of the moms I work with are still ready for adventure and want to go for the epic views of the East Bay. There are so many spots in the Open Spaces in the Walnut Creek area that are perfect for this type of session!

If you’re like me, then you might want something a bit less adventurous. A small beach about 20 minutes from Walnut Creek is a favorite of mine. Another option, if you’re lucky enough to have your 3rd trimester in the early spring, is to take advantage of one of the East Bay’s many mustard flower fields!

Again, all this is something your photographer should be going over extensively with you! You might be beginning to see, these pieces (the timing, the dress, the location) all start to fit together to come up with the best individually customized plan for your maternity photography session. The timing might change the location, which in turn might change the dress you want – it should all be part of the plan.

Bonus Tips!

• Consider getting your makeup done professionally. Make up for photos can be a bit bolder than your normal day to day look. A professional can give you some extra pampering, as well as make you feel like the beautiful mama you are!
• Bring snacks and water! We are probably going to be doing at least a little bit of walking – make sure to pack something in case you feel a bit light headed. I have a backpack and/or wagon that you are welcome to drop your belongings in, so don’t worry about having to carry things!
• Relax, and enjoy your time. I’ll likely have you closing your eyes and thinking about your sweet little baby at some point. Feel free to rub your belly, and sway, just like you’d do at home alone. I’ll give you some space and time to just.. be… and reflect on your last few weeks before your little one is in your arms.
• If you’re just not interested in professional maternity photos for whatever reason, it’s possible to DIY them and make them look seriously great. One benefit of doing your own, is you can document your changing belly every month! If you’re doing your own, here’s a few tips for getting a great result, as well as a link to some adorable props to bring the whole thing together!

What’s next?

If you interested in documenting beyond your pregnancy, I highly suggest speaking to your photographer about various packages they might offer that include newborn, milestone or 1st birthday photos.