"OH Baby" The Goods Maternity Session and Maternity Session Planning Tips//Gulf Breeze Photographer// Jessica Salort

Jana and Jared are having a baby! YES!!! You heard that right! Where to begin....... Oh did I mention Jana and Jared are having a BABY! Ok I guess you get the point now right!

Excuse my excitement but this is big. Jana and Jared's relationship was a whirlwind from the start. Soon after they started their relationship they happily jumped into marriage. Soon after Facebook announced their little one's arrival!

I hoped that in time Jana would call me up to help her with her maternity photography. And my patience worked because she did call and we scheduled her session right away.

By the time we scheduled her maternity session she was a healthy 37 weeks pregnant. I thought she absolutely glowed from the beautiful baby that was growing inside of her.

When deciding location for this shoot we were trying to figure out what place in our local area would fit her specific needs. We settled with Soundside Nature Preserve in Gulf Breeze. This location has woods, small pond, a patch of flowers and a gorgeous bay view. I really like this location because there are many spots along the trail that give you many beautiful backdrops.

I had the pleasure to glam up Jana by doing her hair and make-up. She chose a dark green dress with floral accents. Jared kept his outfit simple with a button up shirt and khakis.

Arriving to this session was inspiring. The golden sun shined down through the trees and the beautiful greens of the tress just glistened. The Goods were totally blown away with this location and saw it's full potential. We took a casual stroll around the trails capturing so many tender moments. I positioned Jana in ways that worked for her and complimented her growing bump. Because she was so much further in her pregnancy mobility was kinda hard and our posing was limited.

All and all this was a successful session. I am glad I was able to accommodate the Good Family and can't wait to meet the little guy. And BTW this location worked really well with their nursery theme which was Nature Inspired.

Planning a Maternity Portrait Session here are a few tips to secure a great session.

1. Start looking at dates. I recommend booking your session between when you are between 25-34 weeks. The further along you might be the more uncomfortable you might feel during the session. If you feel uncomfortable you might look uncomfortable. And don't worry you can still get your photo taken much later too. These are just so friendly recommendations from past experience.

2.Find a Photographer that fit's your style. You might have one in mind already. If not Google and Facebook would be a great place to start searching for your photographer. You could also try searching relevant hashtags on Instagram too. When you contact your photographer give them the proposed dates you have in mind. Most photographers will help you plan your session. I personally help with location and outfit choices. Once you get a date set, it would be a great time to call up a make-up artist/hairstylist for the ultimate experience.

3.Order your outfit. If your partner is included to plan the his outfit around yours.Personally I would stay away from trendy and go for more timeless looks. Solid colors whether they are bold or pastels will help bring the focus to you. Florals are good too. This would also be a good time to order any accessories as well. Many women are using flower crowns to adorn their hair. I have had women use real and fake.

4.Bring details. Some people will bring in a little baby onesies or shoes. Sometimes this is the time to also take out any items from your childhood too like a baby blanket that you used as a little child. If you want to bring a chalkboard or a banner too this would be included. Remember these photos are very personal to you so do what is good for you. There is no wrong or right way to do this.

5.Practice your posing at home before the session. Most photographers like me will help you get into poses that work for you. I always get the clients who insist they are not photogenic and take "horrible photos" so I say then practice. Find your sweet spots. What are your angles and tilts of the head that work for you.

6. Arrive on time to your photo session. Pack extra shoes, and a possible change of clothes. <-----Many of my beach sessions are ended in the water. So with that a towel and water to drink because modeling ain't easy.

7.Relax and wait for your photos to be delivered.

And again no matter what you do or don't do just know you are lovely in this way. - Jessica