"I regret not doing these photos..." - Baby Bump Edition

The one thing I always hear when people look through my books is "I really wish I had done maternity photos". So many women are not comfortable in their own skin when pregnant which is completely understandable. But it really is a once in a life time moment to capture. It is the one session that people often pass up, and the one they regret the most.

My top tips on how to get past the fear of maternity sessions are below:

1. There is no such things a 'perfect' bump.

Every bump is perfect in its own way. There is so much pressure on a woman to have this dream bump that is perfectly round and sits perfectly straight without stretch marks. You have to remember that your bump is doing exactly what it needs to be doing - keeping that little one safe and sound for you to meet them. Take pride in the fact that your bump is one of a kind.

2. Wear something comfortable.

A lot of maternity sessions when googled will show you exaggerated dresses and poses. Do not be put off by this, as with all my sessions it's about you. Don't feel the pressure to do what is popular. Be comfortable. Jeans and a tee can be just as revealing and show your bump off beautifully. I have options for dresses if this is something you would like to try.

3. You do not need to buy an outfit - unless you want to.

As stated above, I offer a couple of dresses and I am willing to adapt to your style in my sessions. Maternity dresses - especially the photoshoot ones- can be very expensive. Do not feel you need to go and buy that £100 dress you saw attached to the google images photo because you think it'll make the session perfect. If you want to buy an outfit thats fine, but there is no need to. We will work with the things we already have between us to make your shoot perfect for you!

4. I have really bad stretch marks.

This is part of pregnancy and although it's not a bit you enjoy, there are ways around it during a session. I am willing to try and fade them out in editing if this is something you would want. The other option is, being covered the entire shoot. Don't think you have to have your bump out without anything covering it to creating a big looking bump. There are angles to help you do this. A thin bit of material can always be used to cover you up if this will make you more at ease.

5. I don't know how to pose

We are in this together, any poses you will be doing I can demonstrate for you. If something isn't working for you or you are uncomfortable, there are other ways around doing things. I will have photos to help guide you as well. Posing in maternity can be as simple as bending a knee. So don't worry we'll make it work.

6. I hate being in front of a camera.

So does everyone! But all you have to remember is why you are having the photos done in the first place. To capture that gorgeous bump before its gone. I can always do more close up photos of your bump if this is something you would prefer. I will always do some of these anyway. I run my sessions relaxed, which can include breaks if you need them. Just try and forget the camera is there, I will try my hardest to make you feel as relaxed as possible. This is the key to stunning photos all round.

7. Add in other children and partners

If you are not doing the session alone, this can sometimes boost your confidence and distract you from the fact you're having your photo taken. This may also not be the case and that's okay too. If you're more at ease doing it alone, it can be me and you in the room. But if you want people involved, having others with you may bring out those natural smiles, it's also the best way to capture memories for the whole family.

Overall, Baby bump sessions really are worth doing, even if the photos are just for you to treasure alone. You only have limited time with your bump, so make every moment count and capture the memories while you can. A photo lasts a lifetime, I can promise you will not regret having them done.

If you're inspired and want to talk about a possible baby bump session today, I am always here to talk.

Lauren :)