Belly Painting: Is 28 weeks of pregnancy really the golden age?

Dangerous paint ingredients and professional photography techniques

"I want to convey my love to my baby in a more special way..."

To all moms who feel this way.


Belly painting is a way of expressing deep love for our unborn child.

It is a unique expression of love in the world.




But, you may be wondering, "Is it really safe?" and "When should I take the photos?"

"What kind of paint should I use?"


Do you have any such concerns or questions?



An expert who has supported over 1,000 pregnant women

We will answer all your questions based on scientific evidence and real-life experience.



By the time you finish reading this guide,

With the new discovery of "So that's the reason!"

You will be able to approach beautiful belly painting photography with confidence.



Special time with your baby

Why not keep it as a treasure for your whole life?

Belly painting helps you bond with your baby

Does it really deepen?

Scientifically proven effect of conveying love to the fetus

A sacred meaning that has continued since ancient times

"Does just drawing on your stomach really have any effect?"

If you're wondering this, your intuition is actually correct.


Because belly painting has amazing, scientifically proven benefits .



Here are some facts revealed in the latest fetal psychology research.


After 20 weeks of pregnancy, babies become very sensitive to their mother's emotional changes.

While belly painting, a large amount of "oxytocin (love hormone)" is secreted from the mother's brain,

These happy emotions are transmitted directly to the baby through the placenta.



Even more amazingly, in ancient Egypt and India,

A ritual was held in which sacred designs were drawn on the stomachs of pregnant women.


This is not just decoration,

It is a prayer for the health of mother and child and the healthy growth of babies .

It was an expression of love that was sacred and had deep meaning.


Modern belly painting continues this ancient wisdom.

In other words, every stroke you draw on your belly

It's the love for the baby.

Is it true that 28 weeks pregnant is the golden age for photography?

This is the time when your belly shape is at its most beautiful.

Safe imaging methods for twin pregnancies and the third trimester

"When should I take a belly painting photo?"

This is an important question that every mom has.



In fact, there is a "golden period" when the shape of your belly looks its most beautiful .


This is between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy (around 8 months pregnant) .

Why is this time special?



There are three reasons.


1. Make your belly shape the most beautiful sphere

At this stage, the belly has a beautiful round shape that truly expresses the ``mystery of life.''

It's not too big and not too small, making it the ideal canvas for belly painting.


2. Mom's health is relatively stable

Morning sickness has subsided and your body is not yet too heavy.

This also minimizes fatigue caused by shooting.


3. Your baby is most responsive

During this time, the baby's movements are active,

The figures often move while you are painting, giving you a real sense of them being alive.



"But I'm in the late stages of pregnancy..."


Don't worry! The third trimester brings its own unique excitement.

The big belly expresses the anticipation of meeting someone soon.

It's a special time when family affection is at its peak.


For twin pregnancies, the recommended time is between 26 and 30 weeks.

Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking the photo.

Which belly paint design should you choose based on your personality?

Recommendations for gentle moms, active moms, and artistic moms

How to choose without making a mistake

"What kind of design should we make?"

This is a moment when many moms get confused.


But in fact, your personality is your best design guide .



[Kind and gentle mom type]

Recommended: bouquet, rainbow, angel wings, heart


The bouquet, painted in pastel colors, symbolizes the wish that love will bloom beautifully.

It will express your unique kindness and warm the hearts of those who see it.

There's no need to worry about not having any artistic talent.

Even a simple heart mark can become a great piece of art if it is filled with love.



[Energetic and active mom type]

Recommended: The Sun, Lion, Tree of Life, Constellations


The sun design symbolizes "hope and vitality."

Bright orange and yellow colors

Let's pray for the baby to grow up healthy and happy.



[Mom type who seeks artistic talent]

Recommended: Mandalas, henna-style designs, space motifs


The complex and beautiful mandala represents "completeness and harmony."

It is an artistic expression of the deep bond between mother and child and the mystery of life.



When you're unsure about a design, there's only one criterion to consider.

"What do you want to tell your baby?"


Love, hope, health, happiness...

This will help us determine the best design for you.

Self 3,000 yen vs. Pro 30,000 yen

Which one is correct?

The truth about cost-effectiveness and selection criteria to avoid regrets

Hidden benefits comparison

"I want to get belly painting done, but should I do it myself or get it done by a professional?"

This is a choice that many moms struggle with.


Did you know that the experience you get will be completely different depending on which one you choose ?



First, let's compare realistic costs.


[Self-DIY costs]

・Safe paint set: 1,800 yen

・Brush and sponge: 700 yen

・Cleansing products: 300 yen

・Support sticker: 200 yen

Total: Approximately 3,000 yen


[Professional photography costs]

・Belly painting treatment: 15,000 yen

・Professional photography (data included): 15,000 yen

Total: Approximately 30,000 yen


Many mothers are surprised and say, "It's 10 times different?!"

There's a good reason for this price difference.



Hidden benefits of selfies:

・Working together with dad deepens the bond

・Special time just for family

・The peace of mind of being able to try again as many times as you like

-Can be enjoyed even after the baby is born


Hidden benefits of the pros:

・Overwhelming safety (using paints specifically designed for pregnant women)

・Mom just sits there and it's done

- Beautiful finish that lasts a lifetime

First-class photography techniques



In fact, many experienced mothers have had a "gradual experience."

First you try it yourself, then you move on to full-scale professional photography.


This reduces the risk of failure,

You can really feel the merits of each.

What are the dangerous ingredients in commercial paints?

A list of heavy metals and VOCs that pregnant women should avoid

Complete list of safe brands

"Are Belly Paint's paints really safe for babies?"

This concern is understandable.


In fact, some commercially available paints contain dangerous ingredients that should be avoided completely during pregnancy .



[Absolutely no-no dangerous ingredients]


1. Heavy metal dyes

・Lead ・Mercury ・Cadmium

→Possibility of serious impact on fetal neurodevelopment


2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

・Toluene ・Benzene ・Formaldehyde

→Causes headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing


3. Paraben-based preservatives

・Methylparaben・Propylparaben

→ Concerns about adverse effects on hormone balance



"I had no idea it contained such scary ingredients..."


Don't worry. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy it 100% safely.



[Safe brand for pregnant women]


Mehron Paradise

・Uses only FDA-approved safe ingredients

-Water-based and easily removed with soap

・Professional grade yet gentle on the skin

・Approximately 800 yen per color


Snazaroo

-Completely meets European safety standards

Glycerin-based for moisturizing effect

・Good color and looks great in photos

・Approximately 600 yen per color


If you have allergies, you must do a patch test beforehand.

Apply a small amount to the inside of your arm → Observe for 24 hours → If there are no problems, start using it


Safety first and create beautiful memories.

Any ideas for getting dad and older kids involved?

Handprint art, collaborative works, and moving poses

Photography techniques that deepen family bonds

Q: Is there a way for dads to join in too?


A: Yes! Family belly painting is a wonderful bonding experience.



[Inspirational ideas for dads]


1. Dad's Handprint Art

Draw a big handprint of your dad on your belly with a small heart inside.

It is an expression of affection that means "Daddy is protecting his baby."

Many fathers are moved and say, "I've never felt so much love."


2. Family name design

Beautifully lettered "Dad," "Mom," and "Baby."

This is a special record that you can show your baby when he or she grows up in the future.


3. Message Art from Dad

By drawing words from dad to baby, such as "Welcome" and "Love you,"

You can experience the moment when paternal love suddenly blossoms.



Q: What if I have older children?


A: Having older brothers and sisters participate strengthens the bonds of the family.


[Warm ideas for older children to participate]


Small handprint and footprint art

Place the older child's handprint next to the baby's belly.

The message is, "Big brother and big sister are protecting you."


Collaborative drawing

I leave the easier parts (such as coloring flowers) to my older child.

Children will begin to develop a sense of responsibility "for the baby."


With message

"Welcome little brother/sister" etc.

Include a welcome message from your older child to the baby.



Belly painting is a project that the whole family can participate in.

It will be more than just a photo shoot ; it will be a special time to deepen family bonds .

How can you take professional-quality photos with your smartphone?

The angle of the light, the choice of background, and the posing

Instagrammable photography techniques

"I want to take a beautiful picture of the berry painting I've worked so hard on with my smartphone!"

Here's some good news for moms like that.


Did you know that you can actually take amazingly beautiful photos just by changing the angle of the light ?



[Light Magic Techniques]


1. Natural light by the window is the best

Soft natural light between 10am and 2pm is ideal.

Fluorescent and LED lighting can ruin the colors.

The reason why photos come out better on cloudy days is because the light is diffused evenly.


2. Light from above at a 45-degree angle

To beautifully show off the roundness of the belly, light from above at an angle is essential.

From the front it looks flat, and from directly above it looks unnatural with too strong shadows.


3. White towel as a reflector

Place a white towel on the opposite side of the shot to soften the shadows.

You can get the same effect as a reflector used by professionals.



[Golden rules for choosing a background]


Plain walls are the most beautiful

A simple background such as white, beige or pale grey will bring out the berry paint.

The golden rule is to "make sure that anything that gives the impression of everyday life is not visible."


[Posing secrets]


1. Turn it slightly sideways to create a three-dimensional effect

Facing at an angle of about 15 degrees will emphasize the roundness of your stomach rather than facing forward.


2. Hand position changes the impression

Placing your hands under your stomach gives the impression of "protection."

Placing your hands next to your stomach gives the impression of being affectionate.


3. Lean your upper body forward slightly

Leaning forward 2 to 3 degrees will make your stomach look more beautiful.



"I was able to take photos that rival those of a professional!"

Many moms have taken impressive photos using this technique.

How can you prepare to avoid mistakes on the day of the shoot?

Health management and belongings checklist for the day before

Complete post-imaging care instructions

"I don't want to be in a rush on the day..."

To all moms out there who have such concerns.


Did you know that 80% of the success of a belly painting shoot depends on the preparation you do the day before ?



[How to manage your health the day before]


1. Get enough sleep (8 hours or more)

Fatigue during pregnancy affects your body more than you might think.

The night before, go to bed an hour earlier than usual.


2. Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water the day before to keep your skin in good condition.

However, please refrain from going out two hours before the shoot (to avoid having to use the toilet).


3. Moisturizing care for the stomach area

The night before, treat your stomach with a fragrance-free moisturizing cream.

The paint adheres much better.



[Checklist of what to bring on the day]


Must-have items:

・Maternal and Child Health Handbook (just in case)

・3 towels (for wiping sweat, reflectors, and emergencies)

・Cleansing oil

・Change of clothes (clothes that open in the front)

・Smartphone charger

・Light snacks (to restore blood sugar levels after the shoot)


Useful to have:

・Small mirror (for checking)

・Hair tie (to tie your hair up)

・A jacket to adjust the room temperature



[Correct care procedures after photography]


1. Gently wash with lukewarm water

Slowly in lukewarm water at about 38 degrees.

Hot water can be hard on your body during pregnancy.


2. Don't forget to moisturize

After washing, be sure to apply a moisturizing cream.

It also helps prevent stretch marks, so it kills two birds with one stone.


3. Get plenty of rest

Filming takes more energy than you might think.

After the shoot, take your time and rest.



"We were well prepared and had a great shoot!"

Many moms feel more comfortable preparing for their photo shoot using this method.

What to do if the paint won't dry?

Common failure patterns and emergency measures

How to act safely when you feel unwell

"Huh? The paint isn't drying at all..."

"I'm starting to feel sick..."


Even if you encounter such troubles while belly painting,

It's fine as long as you know the right way to deal with it .



Common mistakes and quick solutions


1. Paint won't dry

Cause: High humidity, paint applied too thickly

Solution: Use a fan on low setting or a hair dryer with cold air at a distance of 30cm.

The most basic rule is to apply thin layers.


2. The colors are bleeding

Cause: The foundation is not dry, or you are sweating

Solution: Gently touch up with a cotton swab, let it dry completely, then apply the next color.


3. It doesn't look as good as I thought it would.

Cause: Color selection, lighting

Solution: Add contrasting colors and change the angle



[Emergency response when feeling unwell]


If you feel unwell:

1. Immediately stop filming

2. Sit or lie down

3. Take slow, deep breaths

4. Hydrate (room temperature water)

5. If you don't get better, contact your doctor.


If you experience itchy skin:

1. Wash off the paint immediately

2. Cool with a cold towel

3. Consult your doctor

4. Stop using that brand from now on


If you feel bloated:

1. Filming is temporarily suspended

2. Rest in a comfortable position

3. If symptoms persist for more than 15 minutes, contact a doctor



Prevention is the most important thing


Rather than "dealing with problems after they occur,"

The most important thing is to create a safe environment in advance.


Choose a day when you feel good

Use safe paints

Create a reasonable schedule


The safety of mom and baby comes first.

If you feel like you're not feeling well today,

It's also important to have the courage to postpone without hesitation.

What about designs tailored to the month of birth?

Art that captures the seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter

Anniversary and special occasion planning ideas

"Is it true that there are designs that correspond to the month of due date?"

Yes! Seasonal berry painting includes:

It has a deeper meaning that makes the birth of a baby even more special .



[Spring-born babies (March to May)]

Recommended: Cherry blossoms, rape blossoms, fresh greenery, butterflies


A spring motif that represents the beginning of new life.

Paint a hopeful future with pale pink and light green.

The cherry blossom design represents the beautiful, short, and miraculous time.

It truly represents the pregnancy period.



[Baby born in summer (June to August)]

Recommended: Sun, sunflowers, sea, rainbow


A summer design that symbolizes vitality and a bright future.

Bright orange and yellow colors

It expresses the wish for the baby's healthy growth.

The sun motif also represents the central figure in the family.



[Babies born in autumn (September to November)]

Recommended: Maple leaves, acorns, moon, constellations


Autumn art that expresses "fruitfulness and gratitude."

Express your love with deep orange and gold.

"Babies born during the harvest season"

It has long been said to bring special good fortune.



[Babies born in winter (December to February)]

Recommended: Snowflakes, stars, Christmas trees


A winter design that expresses "silence and mystery."

Silver and deep blue,

It creates a sense of sacredness and specialness for your baby.



[Special event linked to the anniversary]


In conjunction with the wedding anniversary:

Special design with heart mark and number of years married


To coincide with Dad's birthday:

"Best Dad" message art


To coincide with my oldest child's birthday:

A hand-holding design that expresses the bond between brothers



Seasonal berry painting,

When I look back at the photos, I think, "I took them in that season."

It also brings back warm memories.

How to overcome shyness?

Tips for taking beautiful photos even while gaining weight

How to relieve anxiety and the truth about photo storage periods

Q: I'm embarrassed to show my belly, so I can't take the first step...


A: I understand that feeling very well.

Did you know that over 90% of mothers have the same concerns ?



[3 steps to overcome embarrassment]


Step 1: Change your mindset to "this is a special time"

A pregnant belly is not a "fat body" but a "sacred body that nurtures life."

Just by changing your mindset this way, you will naturally feel more confident.


Step 2: Start with a family-only space

First just the dad, then the whole family, and once he gets used to it, we move on to professional photography.

If you gradually get used to it, you will naturally lose resistance.


Step 3: Think "for the baby"

The desire to show love to the baby outweighs any feelings of embarrassment.



Q: I've gained so much weight I don't want to be in photos...


A: There are ways to look beautiful even while gaining weight!


[Body shape cover techniques]


1. The solution is angles

Photographed from a 45-degree angle rather than from the front.

It's the magic angle that makes your belly look rounder and your body look slimmer.


2. Focus on the upper body

The composition is centered on the chest and above,

It beautifully accentuates the belly paint on your belly.


3. Drapey clothing

Cover the area other than the area to be photographed with a loose cloth.

The result is a beautiful goddess-like finish.



Q: How long can I save the photos I take?


A: Digital photos can be stored semi-permanently.


[Recommended storage method]


Cloud services (Google Drive, etc.)

・Unlimited capacity for peace of mind

- Easy to share with family members

・Safe even when changing smartphone models


Print saving is also available

・High-quality photo books make it even more special

・It can also be used to back up digital data



"I'm glad I filmed it!"

No mom regrets it.

You'll definitely want to praise yourself for having the courage to do so.

What are some ideas for using the photos after shooting?

New Year's cards, baby name cards, and first meals

How to remain a beloved family treasure

I took some great photos, but how do I use them?

For such moms, we will introduce some ideas for using the photos so that they can be loved for a long time even after the photo shoot .



[Ideas for using it immediately after giving birth]


1. Birth announcement card

A special card featuring belly painting photos and newborn photos.

The contrast between "in the womb" and "after birth" is moving.

The message conveyed is, "You were born with so much love."


2. Naming card decoration

A berry painting photo is laid out as the background of the name card.

Along with your baby's name, a loving record will be left behind.



[Ideas to enjoy as you grow]


First meal decorations

Belly painting photos were exhibited at the 100th day celebration venue.

As proof that she was loved from the time she was in the womb,

It will be a performance that will impress all participants.


1st birthday album

Belly painting → Newborn → 100 days → Half birthday → 1 year old

Use it as a special page to record your child's growth.



[Annual usage]


Main photo for New Year's card

Combine it with a family photo to create a warm New Year's card.

It will be a beautiful piece that expresses the "origins of the family."


Mother's Day and Father's Day gifts

As a gift for grandparents,

Frame your berry painted photo and give it as a gift.

This is a touching gift with the theme of "love for grandchildren."



[Gift Ideas for the Future]


20th birthday present

On the day of her coming-of-age ceremony, she gives it to her saying, "This is a photo of you when you were in my belly."

This will be the most special gift in your life, allowing you to experience the depth of your parent's love.


Surprise performance at wedding

At her child's wedding, she introduced him as someone who was "loved so much as she grew up."

It will be a fantastic performance that will move the venue to tears of emotion.



Belly painting photos are taken from the moment they are taken.

As "a page in family history,"

It will become a special treasure that will be cherished for decades to come.