Is Pre-Natal Photography for You?

Let's start at conception, shall we?  No, not the actual act, but the fruit of the labour (so to speak).  I remember clearly in the 1970's when my avant-garde cousin in Montreal presented her parents with a semi-nude pre-natal portrait.  The family was all a twitter. Shocked really.

Since Demi Moore was beautifully photographed by Annie Leibovitz for the cover of Vanity Fair in 1991, it has become, while maybe not conventional, certainly within the norm, to be photographed in the third trimester of pregnancy.  Expectant moms have a particular vulnerability, softness and sensitivity that comes through the lens into the captured images.  It is a beautiful experience for the mom-to-be and the photographer.

The “innies and outies” of wardrobe choices for a pre-natal photo session are simple.  Do you want to feel comfortable, or push the envelope a little?  Will you wear blue jeans and your hubby’s white dress shirt?  Or just the dress shirt?  Perhaps a tight black stretchy dress?  A soft white robe?  Or maybe nothing at all?  Even all of the above. 

When you think of it, no matter how many times you might be pregnant, your relationship with that child is unique and intimate. And just as important is the bond that can be created when the father or siblings are included in the photographic experience.  The memories are priceless. 

To all the moms-to-be out there, enjoy the pre-natal experience. It is an exciting time that goes by so quickly.  And take a moment to decide if a portrait is an important part of your pregnancy.