Awhile back, my friend Deanna of Deanna Spivey Photography, asked if she could take maternity photos for me. My initial response was “no thanks” — simply because I’d just rather have photos of my family, not me, around my house. And let’s face it — this is my third baby, so it’s not exactly like I haven’t seen my body in this crazy state before.
When she insisted and discussed her vision with me, I couldn’t say no. Pregnant women are beautiful no matter what, so why would I knock my own appearance? She told me how women always have to find the flaws with maternity sessions — from cankle complaints to “my face is puffy and I don’t feel glowing.” Those words got to me as someone who believes all women deserve to feel beautiful, even if there’s 40+/- extra pounds on their frame from nourishing baby.
The truth of the matter is, there isn’t a time in a woman’s life when she feels more alive, and to me, that’s what makes pregnant women fascinating. Each belly is different and each mama has a different glow to her.
I am so glad I listened and allowed her experiment a bit for my session. Seeing the maternity photos she took of me brought out the tears. I know in my heart this is my last pregnancy and I am going to miss this phase of my life. I am so glad I can reflect on these now forever.
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Deanna has some great advice for those of you considering maternity photos:
Why do a maternity session? I often hear moms with older children say that maternity photos weren’t a “thing” when they were pregnant. Personally, I look at it as another life event that should be documented, and it’s as simple as that. Maternity photos capture this moment in time before your life enters a new stage, and to celebrate the incredible miracle that is growing within you. You will never be just as you are today again.
Yep. I know you probably feel large and there are lots of crazy things happening with your body, but that’s just the point. Don’t get me wrong – when I look at my own maternity photos I still think, “Gosh, my face was fat,” but I treasure them none the less. A professional will know how to photograph you in the most flattering way possible and create images that will be a keepsake to you and your children. You could even consider it art. 😉
Maternity photos are best done around 8 months when you have a nice, round belly but before we have to worry about early labor! You know…right about the time where not much fits anymore. Which brings me to the next question I’m often asked – what do you wear?
You don’t need to spend a fortune on an outfit. I encourage expecting mamas to have at least one fitted option because they are great for silhouettes and for those that want to show their shape, but maybe not their bare belly! Simple tank tops can be layered with sweaters, blazers or accessorized with scarves for several different looks. Try not to pair something snug with over-the-belly bottoms, as the line will show through and can be distracting.
A loose option is great as well, perhaps something with an empire waist or a maxi dress. But, don’t be afraid to break the mold a bit. What about boy shorts and hubby’s button down? His riding jacket? A blazer or sweater closed over your belly with a statement necklace? I also offer maternity gowns made specifically for photos, and have fabric wraps and many other items available to create a truly unique image for clients. It’s all about you (for one more time before it’s all about baby). Maybe even pamper yourself and have your hair and makeup done!
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Thank you, Deanna, for capturing these images for me. Though I was hesitant about being bare bellied for some of the shots, I am SO glad I did it. And you all notice the yellow gown I’m wearing? Deanna MADE it! How neat is that? I’m in love with her artistry and can’t wait to see what she does when baby boy arrives. Her newborn photography is absolutely stunning!
To see more, make sure to visit her website for bump photos and check her out on Facebook.
Deanna Spivey Photography is based out of Livingston County, but she will travel across metro Detroit for your photography needs. Contact her at spivey.deanna{at}gmail.com or via phone at (248) 343-2919.
Did you take professional maternity photos? Why or why not?
You look beautiful Mama!! I wish I would have done something like this with Gabby…I feel like I have 2 pics while being pregnant with her!
Yeah, it’s not quite the same with subsequent children! They are fun to look back on though. I’ve tried to do every week this pregnancy, but have failed miserably. It ends up being once every 3 weeks or so and I have seemed to have gotten worse this past weeks. Oh well! At least I have these now 🙂
These are great! I love the one with Kinley in it too :).
Thanks! It’s Karina though 😉 It’s all good — I mix them up all the time. Poor kids!
Oh wow! She’s gotten big!
Oh wow, you are stunning! Both of you did a fantastic job!
Aww, thank you! That means a lot too since you are such a fabulous photographer yourself 😀
They look great! Love the yellow dress. You are beautiful.
Shucks, thank you, Amanda! So are you! Getting down to the wire for both of us. Such exciting times ahead 🙂
These are beautiful, beautiful pictures, Laura!! You look amazing!
Aw, thanks so much, Kerri!
Beautiful!!! I used to have a photography business, and I loved doing maternity photos. I’m so glad you listened to her and had them done. I about fell over when I saw the one of you in the water. There is a park near my house that has a creek surrounded by trees. I have taken my kids to play there many times. There is one spot that I have always envisioned as a spot which would be great for a maternity photo. It would require the woman to be in a long, flowing dress and standing in the creek. I never got to take one, and probably never will. And there you are standing in the water in a flowing dress. Awesome.
I hope the end of your pregnancy goes easy on you.
Awww, thank you so much for the kind comment, Christine. Sounds like you need to find a pregnant woman and nab that photo stat 😉 It was such a fun session, even though some fishes were trying to nibble on my legs while I stood in the water – HA!
Lauren, these are stunning and you look radiant! You make pregnancy look effortless!
Hah! Thank you, honey. It’s really not that bad if you’re one of the lucky ones 😉 With that said, I look forward to being able to move around a bit faster!
I totally agree, maternity photos are great to have to remember such a pivotal time in a woman’s life. I love the dress you chose and how it trails through the water. Gorgeous shots, thanks for sharing!