Why You Should Take Your Maternity Photos in San Francisco
Being pregnant is one of the most special times of a woman’s life. True, not everything is a bed of roses during those nine months, but it is still a moment that deserves to be captured. If you think about it, this is the beginning of your child’s story, so why not tell it with a maternity photography session? And if takes place in San Francisco, that’s even better!
I’ve had clients that have told me that they don’t feel their most beautiful selves those last couple months of their pregnancy, that they’re hesitant to have their photos taken. Somehow, they decide to do it (it might have something to do that I tell them that no one regrets having taken their pictures, but they could regret not taking them, and this is a moment that’s impossible to repeat) and after I show them their pictures, they tear-up seeing themselves as beautiful women, feminine yet strong, goddesses with a glow, carrying life inside them. It all depends on your attitude, plus choosing the right photographer, outfit and location. Let’s talk a little bit more about that.
The Right Photographer
First and foremost, when looking to hire a maternity photographer in San Francisco, you have to make sure that you click with them. Of course, style and budget play a part too, but if you have a good rapport with your photographer, the session will flow smoothly and more natural. Being relaxed and trusting your professional will yield beautiful photos that capture your true self, the love between you and your partner and the excitement of your children for having a new baby brother or sister. Also, by hiring a well-trained and experienced photographer that specializes in maternity you are guaranteeing that they know how to pose the female body in the most flattering ways, hiding what you’re not comfortable with and showcasing what matters most: the life inside your belly. And the outfit can make the difference here!
The Right Outfit
We all know that an outfit can make or break the entire look of a photograph. When you’re pregnant, your favorite clothes might not fit as you wish and thinking about shopping for that perfect dress might be overwhelming, considering that you have many things to think about before the baby comes, like your baby registry, your baby shower, the hospital tour, birth classes and all you’ll need for your newborn baby. Adding a gown that you’ll only use once to the list? It doesn’t sound fun! So, what to wear to your maternity session? You can always wear a plain summer dress if it’s warm enough (which doesn’t happen too often in San Francisco, but hey, we still have Indian Summer!) or an oversized sweater over leggings or skinny jeans if it’s chillier. Keep it simple and stay away from heavy patterns, very bold colors or items that are too trendy. These images are meant to last for generations, so you want to keep it as timeless as possible. Go for neutral colors that compliment your skin tone and add a few accessories that have a special meaning to you.
Another option is to hire a photographer that provides outfits for you. What? Is that a thing? Oh yes, it is! Some photographers, including Lemonshoots, have a wide collection of maternity gowns designed exclusively with maternity photography in mind. These gowns are made to flatter the pregnant body and bring attention to the belly in the most beautiful and elegant ways. This is a great way to have gorgeous photos without worrying at all about what to wear. Just take care of your hair and makeup and you’re good to go! Some of our gowns are lacy and flowy, allowing for very feminine, sexy and impacting photographs. Others are more modest, with long sleeves and full coverage, great for those foggy days around San Francisco.
Location
Here’s the fun part. Choosing a location will set the mood and look of your session. The focus is always on you, but the background will be the cherry on the cake. We are so lucky to live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Having your maternity photography session taken in San Francisco will guarantee breathtaking images that will make for stunning wall art decor in your home. I want to share with you some of my favorite places to photograph my maternity clients in the city by the bay.
Baker Beach. This is one of my favorite area beaches because it includes both beach and treescapes, as well as the Golden Gate Bridge. Just be aware that it can get chilly and windy, plus walking in the sand in long dresses might require a little bit of effort.
Crissy Field. This location has both beach and Golden Gate bridge appeal, as well as the nearby Palace of Fine Arts, which is architecturally stunning and offers a range of beautiful scenes.
Shakespeare Garden. Tucked in the middle of the Golden Gate Park, you can find this secluded little garden. I love it because even though it is small, it allows for different looks in every corner, plus it is very private in case you want to use more revealing gowns.
Legion of Honor. In the middle of the Presidio (another lovely place to capture mothers-to-be), the Legion of Honor boasts majestic architecture so you benefit from both architectural and nature-based backdrops.
Ready to Book?
I’d love to show you how an amazing experience your maternity session can be. Together we can create lovely images that will grace your walls and your heart for years to come. Contact Lemonshoots to ask more about our maternity sessions. Let the memory-making begin!