Should I take a maternity shoot?

Maternity photoshoots are all the rage in our generation and I have to say I was a bit bummed that I might have to give it a miss during the Covid. So, quite honestly, I have been racking my pretty little head on how to go ahead doing it in a safe manner. Thankfully, the lock-down lifted.

As many of you would know, a maternity shoot isn't the cheapest and it is as though you are going through the whole wedding photo ordeal all over again. So let me just share the tips and tricks with you to make your photoshoot more chillax and fuss-free :D

1. Find a photographer you are comfortable with. In fact, I think this might be the most important criterion on top of price etc. Especially if you want to take photos with slight nudity, that might be even more vital. Our photos are taken by dphotofolio. Alvin is very respectful and when I told him I am not ok with nudity. He found me inner wear so that I can take this flying artistic silk look. 

2. Check out their photo styles and let them know if you are ok to be directed. I think the Hubs and I are a lot more experienced in photoshoots after our wedding shoots. Nonetheless, we also ask to be directed because when it come to the bump shoot we don't really know how to showcase it. Alvin from dphotofolio is very friendly and will let you know what to do so that you will definitely bring home a few good shots to bring home. 

3. Studio or Home shoot or outdoors? This one really depends on your living conditions. Some mummies took at home. I think if you have your own house already and it is well decorated, you can definitely opt for this option. Currently, I am living with my in-laws and I don't think we can be that relaxed with curious spectators. Pai-seh max. Even for an indoor shoot, it can be quite tiring already. My Mum thinks when baby 2 is here. We should take an outdoors one instead. :P

4. Should I wear make-up? I didn't cos I wanted a natural, recognisable look. For my wedding, I had so much make-up and fake lashes on that I didn't look like myself at all. Also, since I was fortunately blessed with the pregnancy glow, I thought I should make use of it. So I only powdered myself for the shoot. And I absolutely love how it turned out!

5. Should I prepare any props? Yes, you should. In fact, you should prepare items that are unique to your relationship and motherhood journey. I remembered to bring my themed shoot props and flowers (from One Hour Florist, read my review here!) But, I totally forgot to bring my baby's toys and clothes. Damn the mummy's brain! Hopefully, Baby 2 will have more luck in this department!

6. How many sets of clothes should I prepare? You need to have at least 2! But it depends on how particular you are. I am ok with wearing the studio's robes etc. But if you are a cleanliness freak then please bring your own. I even brought a set of shoes to change (extra max!). For your own clothes, wear something comfortable. I wore my favourite nursing dress - Joole Maternity Nursing Dress in Black from Mothers en Vogue for my themed shoot!

To re-create my look: Joole Maternity Nursing Dress in Black from Mothers en Vogue, Fabiole shades from Xylvester, Clarks Heels with clip-ons, Nerf Guns 

7. Should I conceptualise my own shoot? Yes, you should. I dreamt this out one night (maybe cos baby wanna do this too) and discussed it with Alvin. He was game and viola, we became spies. We had a ball of fun! I have to say I absolutely love how Joole Maternity Nursing Dress in Black from Mothers en Vogue managed to hide my bump making me still look like a sexy agent although Alvin think I should flaunt the bump. (Note: Mothers en Vogue is really too under-rated, if you want nursing/ maternity wear that shows off your curves, please check them out!)

8. Should I get my raw images back? Yes, you should. Even though most of us are no photoshop experts, we should try to get copies of them. Because behind the scenes are hilarious and will bring back lots of beautiful memories. Plus. it is quite fun to do cringy edits like mine!

9. Should I take maternity shots? Honestly, I didn't find the point to take wedding studio shots initially. But then I realise every year I would look through it. Sometimes, I would also scroll through it in my phone. Photos like this are never cheap and may not be a necessity in life, but I see myself always going back again and again to reminisce that moment and that's when I know it is worth every penny...