Fall is a great time for maternity photos because of all the warm colors. Don't wait too long to book your session, as you may be tired and not feel like walking. It's best to schedule your session early, ideally between 28-36 weeks depending on how much you are showing. Whether you're expecting multiples or it's your first baby, everyone's journey is different. If you're in the Catawba or Hickory, NC area, consider booking with the best maternity photographer around. Get tips and ideas for your maternity session and book a session near you today.Let me send you soome more photo tips on your maternity session in Hickory, NC.

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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.

Top Tips for Your Baby's Newborn Photo Session

Your baby's newborn photo session is one of the most beautiful and meaningful photo sessions of their life. They'll be this little for such a short time, and newborn photography is your magical save button to preserve a slice of this amazing stage forever. Many of the parents in my studio, though, are first-timers for newborn photos, and they aren’t sure what to expect or how to make the session go more smoothly. As Hickory's premier newborn photographer, I'm happy to help! These are my top tips for parents for your newborn photo session.

1. Be Strategic with the Sleep Schedule

If you love sleepy newborn photos (as nearly every parent does), you can help to make sure your baby drifts off to dreamland at just the right time. Try to keep them awake for a few hours before the session. Then, give them a nice big feeding just before the session. With that combo, those little eyelids will close before you know it and your baby will sleep soundly.

Of course, some babies want to see what's going on, and may be more difficult to get to sleep. That's okay! I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve for easing babies to sleep, and we'll get beautiful and precious portraits regardless.

2. Plan for Comfort

Newborn sessions can last for several hours because we let the baby lead the way, taking plenty of breaks for feeding, soothing, changing, and so on. For much of this time, you'll just be relaxing while I work my magic.

When you come to your session, bring items that will keep you comfortable and allow you to enjoy this rare break time. That could include a book to read, your latest knitting project, and so on.

Make sure you're also prepared to be in photos, though. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you and your baby so it’s an excellent time for me to take portraits of you together during this beautiful time of life.

3. Trust Your Photographer’s Expertise

You've chosen your photographer for a reason: they're experienced in newborn photography, they have knowledge of newborn safety, and you love their work. Take advantage of that expertise.

If you have any questions about or leading up to your photo session, just ask your photographer. Communicate with them about what you hope to get from your session and then trust that they have all the details handled. Remember, the less stressed you feel, the more at ease your baby will feel too, and that makes for the best newborn photos.

4. Relax and Enjoy!

Your baby's newborn photo session isn't just something to check off the to-do list. This is a special, once-in-a-lifetime moment for your family and you don’t want to miss it. Throughout your baby's photo session, allow yourself to just relax your mind, be present, and take in the experience. The memories you have of this photo session will make the portraits that much more special.

Planning Your Newborn Photography Session

If you have a baby on the way, I would be honored to capture this monumental time for you and your growing family. For stunning newborn photos as well as an enjoyable, stress-free experience, contact Heidi Houser Photography today, your premier photographer serving Hickory, NC, and beyond.

Hi gang! I was so excited to meet up with Heaven and Justin at the waterfall for a stunning – and terribly sweet – maternity session. At the time,Heaven was mere weeks away from giving birth, so you can only imagine how she was feeling while we were roaming around finding the best spots to shoot! She was a trooper, though, let me tell you. Her skin looked amazing, her hair was perfection, Heaven was glowing. Not to mention, Justin was a total loving and supportive rock star the entire time. There was a moment when kissed her on the forehead  is was so sweet.Since they’re almost at the end of the pregnancy, I asked them about how their journey has been thus far. Heaven and Justin said, smooth sailing.They’re going to be an amazing Mom and Dad duo, and their little bundle of joy is so lucky to be brought into the world with them. Thanks again and congrats, you two!