As you get ready for your maternity photo session, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly. First off, it's best to schedule your session between 31-36 weeks of pregnancy. This is when your bump is typically at its most flattering size.

When looking for a photographer, make sure to find someone who specializes in maternity photography. This will ensure that they know how to capture your pregnancy glow in the best way possible.

Plan out your outfits for the session and do a dress rehearsal to make sure everything looks perfect. You can also practice posing in front of a mirror to feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

Pamper yourself before the session by getting your hair, nails, and makeup done. For the actual photo shoot, professional photographers often prefer shooting outdoors at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.

Be prepared to walk at some locations, so bring a change of shoes if needed. It's also a good idea to wear nude undergarments and bring along an ultrasound as a prop if you like.

Remember to bring bug spray to avoid any unwanted guests during the session. And try to avoid wearing perfume, as it can attract more bugs.

Make sure to stay hydrated before and after the session to keep yourself feeling comfortable and refreshed throughout. And most importantly, keep props to a minimum to keep the focus on your beautiful bump.

It's a girl! The Martinez family is officially expecting a little lady to join their family. The little bundle of cuteness is set to arrive in just a few short weeks. So far, Isabel  has had a somewhat easy pregnancy. Like most moms in their final trimester, she is counting down the days until baby is welcomed into our world!Check out some of my favorite shots from our session together at Downtown Hickory NC Portrait Studio See? I told you she was beautiful! Can't wait to meet little baby  when she finally arrives!

Gown by: Bella Baby Wear

Woohoo! It's a? Alesia is officially expecting a little bundle of cuteness is set to arrive in just two short weeks. So far, Alesia has had a somewhat easy pregnancy. Like most moms in their final trimester, she is counting down the days until baby is welcomed into our world! Check out some of my favorite shots from our session together at Maternity Portrait Studio Near me See? I told you she was beautiful! Can't wait to meet little baby!

Your pregnancy is an incredible time in your life. You’re preparing for the exciting arrival of a precious new baby and you’re cherishing every moment of feeling your baby grow within you. But it’s a special time for the rest of your family too, and that includes your other kids. Their lives are about to change too with the arrival of their new baby brother or sister, and most big-siblings-to-be love to be included in the celebration.

That’s why this sweet mom RJ decided not only to commemorate her pregnancy with a maternity photo session but to include the entire family too. Her little guy is absolutely thrilled to be a big brother! I could see the joy and excitement on his face, and I can already tell that he’s ready to give his new baby sibling all the love in the world.

This family is from Mooresville, North Carolina, and Mom came to me with a distinct vision of what she wanted for her family maternity portraits. She did a fantastic job with the preparations, and she even scouted her own location: Lake Norman State Park. This area in front of the lake was truly stunning, and it served well to highlight that excited glow that surrounded this beautiful and loving mom.

Along with portraits of this adorable family of three in their last weeks before becoming a family of four, we made sure to get some striking photos of Mom solo, too. I’m always touched to see the way moms hold their baby bumps so dearly, already surrounding their baby with love before they’re even born.

Some of my favorite photos, though, have to be the portraits of Mom and Dad together. It’s clear that these two adore each other, their son, and their new baby, and the look in their eyes says it all!

If you’re preparing to welcome a new baby into your home, a maternity photo session is the perfect way to celebrate your growing family. Contact my Hickory, NC photo studio today to schedule your session.