Are you embarrassed about maternity photos?
Why 90% of moms don't regret it
Shooting period: 8 months vs. 9 months
"Aren't maternity photos embarrassing?"
"I want to tell the baby in my belly that I was loved..."
For expectant mothers who have such thoughts.
At this moment during pregnancy,
Spending time with your baby growing inside you
It's the most special time of your life .
But when it comes to taking maternity photos...
"It's embarrassing after all..."
"I don't know when to take the photo."
"It's going to cost a lot of money..."
In fact, in a recent survey
Approximately half of women who have given birth have taken maternity photos .
Of these, over 90% responded that they were glad they took the photos .
I have been involved in maternity photo shoots for over 3,000 people.
Based on the knowledge of professional photographers and midwives,
We will solve the concerns of expectant mothers one by one.
By the time you finish reading this guide,
The thoughts behind "taking the first family photo with your baby"
You will be armed with the knowledge to confidently take beautiful commemorative photos.
To the baby growing hard in the womb,
"I was loved so much even before I was born"
Why not leave a photo that can convey your message?
Are you embarrassed about maternity photos?
The truth about 90% satisfaction
Half of the moms have already taken the photo! Psychological techniques to relieve anxiety
"It's so embarrassing to take a photo with my belly exposed..."
You're not alone in thinking that.
However, experienced mothers who have actually taken maternity photos say,
Why do over 90% of people say they're glad they took the photos?
When you know the reason,
I'm sure your feelings will change too.
First of all, I want you to know:
Maternity photos are not about showing off your belly .
This is the first family photo taken with the baby in the womb .
Here are some comments from experienced moms who have actually taken photos:
"At first I was embarrassed,
The photographer said to me, "You're overflowing with love for your baby."
I was able to smile naturally."
"During the shoot, the baby in my belly kept moving.
It was like we were taking a photo together."
It's very natural to feel embarrassed.
But on the other side of that feeling,
That there is a beautiful feeling of deep love for a baby ,
Please remember this.
At what month of pregnancy should you take the photo?
8 months vs 9 months: science
The definitive guide to the best timing for first-time mothers, multiparous mothers, and twins
When is the best time to take maternity photos to get the most beautiful results?
To answer this question,
We analyzed medical evidence and imaging data from over 4,000 people.
To put it simply,
The best time is between 32-36 weeks (8-9 months) of pregnancy .
But why this time?
First, let me explain the characteristics of the eighth month of pregnancy (28-31 weeks).
During this period, the roundness of the stomach becomes more clearly visible,
The result is a beautiful silhouette that makes it clear at a glance that you are pregnant.
Also, I am in the middle of the stable period and my physical condition is relatively stable.
This is also a time when the burden of filming is minimal.
On the other hand, during the 9th month of pregnancy (32-35 weeks),
Your belly will get even bigger, allowing you to take more impressive photos.
"The baby is growing healthily in the womb"
There is a beauty that can be felt just by looking at the photographs.
For first-time mothers , the first half of the ninth month (32-34 weeks) is recommended.
The belly grows slowly, so it is at this stage that it becomes fully rounded.
For women who have given birth before , the best time is the second half of the eighth month (30-32 weeks).
After the second child, the belly starts to grow faster, so it's ideal to take the photo a little earlier.
For twin pregnancies , we recommend an even earlier date of 7-8 months (28-31 weeks).
This is because the belly grows quickly and the strain it puts on the body needs to be taken into consideration.
Breakdown of the average maternity photo price of 30,000 yen and tips for saving money
Compare studio, on-site, and self-service costs to make a decision you won't regret
How much does maternity photography cost?
It's a concern because there are many expenses involved during pregnancy.
According to a survey of over 1,400 mothers nationwide,
The average cost of maternity photos was about 30,000 yen .
However, when I learned the breakdown of this 30,000 yen,
You'll probably find it surprisingly reasonable.
For studio photography (20,000-50,000 yen)
・Photography fee: 3,000-5,000 yen
・Costume rental: Free - 3,000 yen
・Data fee: 15,000-25,000 yen
・Album fee: 5,000-15,000 yen (optional)
Many studios offer free maternity dress rentals.
Professional lighting allows you to take beautiful photos.
For on-site photography (20,000-40,000 yen)
・Photography fee: 15,000-25,000 yen
・Transportation costs: 1,000-3,000 yen
・Data fee: included (50-100 sheets)
The appeal of shooting in natural light is that it captures a relaxed expression.
Self-photography (0-5,000 yen)
・Costume fee: 2,000-3,000 yen
・Small items: 1,000-2,000 yen
・Tripod and remote control: 2,000-3,000 yen
For those who think "30,000 yen is too much..." we recommend
Here's how to take advantage of the studio's free campaign .
Many studios are running campaigns where maternity photo shoots are free,
You can take professional photos for just the cost of the data (10,000-20,000 yen).
Also, if you make a reservation for a "shrine visit and set,"
There are many studios that offer maternity photos at half price, so
It may even be profitable in the long run.
[Q&A Part 1] Shooting locations, reservations, and what to do if you're feeling unwell
Answering basic questions for beginner moms
Q: Where can I have my maternity photos taken?
A: There are three main options:
1. Photo studio photography (most popular)
This is the method chosen by approximately 60% of mothers.
Professional lighting allows for beautiful photos, and a wide range of costume rentals are available.
Even if you feel embarrassed, you can rest assured that the shoot will be in a private room.
2. On-site photoshoot at your home (recommended for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere)
It is popular among mothers who feel anxious about going out or who have older children and find it difficult.
You can relax in a familiar environment and capture natural expressions.
3. Outdoor photography (recommended for nature lovers)
Shooting in a park or on the beach will give you a sense of openness in your photos.
However, it depends on your physical condition and the weather, so it's important to reserve a backup day.
Q: When should I make a reservation?
A: We recommend making a reservation when you are around 6-7 months pregnant .
It is especially difficult to make reservations on weekends and at popular studios.
Make your reservation 1-2 months in advance of your desired photo shoot date.
Also, many studios will accommodate "change of schedule due to illness," so
It's best to make a reservation early and schedule your appointment according to your physical condition.
Q: What if I get sick on the day of the shoot?
A: Please do not push yourself too hard.
Most studio and traveling photographers
They are happy to accommodate schedule changes due to the pregnant woman's poor health.
On the contrary, shooting while feeling unwell
My expression becomes stiff and I can't take good photos.
"The safety of the baby and mother comes first"
Professional photographers know this best.
Make stretch marks look beautiful! Tips for choosing clothes that cover your figure
Complete guide to dress, casual and revealing styles
"I'm worried about stretch marks, so I can't imagine showing my stomach..."
Don't you think so?
But when I actually took the photo,
Stretch marks are seen as beautiful evidence that a woman has worked hard to raise her baby .
For those who are still curious,
We will teach you the secrets to choosing outfits that will cover your body shape and look beautiful in photos.
1. Maternity dresses (most popular and extremely comfortable)
The A-line dress beautifully accentuates the curves of the stomach.
It gives the overall silhouette a feminine look.
White and pastel dresses
It expresses "divine motherhood" and naturally covers stretch marks.
The lace material creates shadows depending on the light,
The three-dimensionality of the belly is beautifully expressed.
2. Tube top + long skirt (popular with fashionable moms)
A style that only exposes the stomach,
It captures the mystique of pregnancy.
The tube top covers the area from under the chest to the upper part of the stomach,
While hiding the lower abdomen where stretch marks are a concern,
It only shows off the beautiful curves.
3. Casual style (recommended for natural people)
By taking photos in everyday clothes,
You can record "what mom is like every day."
If you lift up only the stomach area and take a photo,
It gives off a relaxed look and natural beauty.
Denim, dresses, etc.
Shooting in clothes you're comfortable wearing can also help ease your nervousness.
Professional tips for hiding your body shape
・Shooting from an angle emphasizes the roundness of the stomach
・Make your skin beautiful with natural light and soft lighting
- Cover your belly with your hands to show affection
"Not perfect body type"
This is the true beauty of a mother raising a baby.
Maternity photo shoots for couples that will impress even dad
A pose to relieve tension and deepen family bonds
"My husband isn't keen on maternity photos..."
"They seem embarrassed to take pictures..."
There are actually a lot of dads like that.
However, the most common comment from dads after the shoot is,
"I'm glad I took the photos. It made me realize that we were becoming a family."
While relieving dad's tension,
We'll teach you tips for taking natural and beautiful maternity photos.
3 steps to relieve dad tension
Step 1: Communicate the meaning of the shoot
Instead of "taking a photo,"
Tell them it's your "first family photo with your baby."
Many dads, after taking the photos,
I was moved to realize that we were already family even while he was in my womb.
Step 2: Start in a natural pose
Instead of suddenly striking a pose,
All you need to do is place your hand on your stomach as you normally would.
When I asked her to "talk to the baby in my belly,"
Daddy's expression will naturally become gentler.
Step 3: Get your daddy excited
"What kind of dad do you want to be?"
What is the first thing you want to teach your baby?
By asking questions like this,
Dad's awareness of being a father begins to grow,
Your face will naturally become softer.
Composition points that deepen the bond between husband and wife
- Daddy hugging mommy from behind
→ Expressing a father's desire to "protect his family"
・Pose with hands on stomach together
→ Expressing a cooperative relationship: "raising a baby together"
- Side shot of dad kissing belly
→ Express your love for your baby directly
If the baby moves during the shoot,
Share the excitement with your dad by saying, "He just kicked!"
That moment is it.
This is our first step as a family of three .
Self-shooting vs. professional photography: which is the better option? A thorough comparison
Tips for taking smartphone selfies and criteria for choosing a studio
"Should we hire a professional or do it ourselves?"
This is a choice that many moms struggle with.
In fact, both make great souvenir photos .
The important thing is to choose a method that aligns with your values.
Know the benefits of each
Make a choice you won't regret.
Moms who are perfect for selfies
・"I want to leave a record of us as we are"
・"I want to keep my budget down (under 5,000 yen)"
・"I'm shy and get nervous when I'm around other people."
・"I want the peace of mind of being able to retake the photo as many times as I want."
The greatest appeal of self-photography is
It allows you to capture the "real couple."
We live in an age where you can take beautiful photos even with a smartphone.
Using natural light from the window,
If you use a tripod and a self-timer,
The result is a warm family photo.
Moms who recommend professional photography
・"It's a once in a lifetime experience, so I want to capture the best photos possible."
・"I want to leave the technical stuff to you and concentrate on filming."
・"I want advice on costumes and poses."
・"I want a photo with the whole family in it."
Professional techniques use light differently.
The angle that makes the belly curve look beautiful,
Lighting that makes skin look smooth,
Words that bring out a natural smile.
With these technologies,
You can achieve the beauty of a magazine model .
Three tips for taking successful selfies
1. Use light to your advantage
By the window, take advantage of the soft light coming through the curtains.
The natural light in the morning is the most beautiful.
2. Keep the background simple
We recommend outdoor spaces with white walls and lots of greenery.
The main character, the mom, and her belly stand out.
3. Take lots of photos and choose
Take 100 photos and you'll come across one miraculous one.
This is the best part of taking selfies.
Whichever you choose,
Your love for your baby will definitely show in the photos .
The science behind poses that make your belly look its best
The rules for angles that look great in solo, couple, and family photos
What poses will make your belly look beautiful?
In fact, beautiful maternity photos
There are "scientific laws" .
A professional photographer has discovered through his many years of experience,
We will teach you the angles and poses that will make your belly curve look its most beautiful.
[Solo photo] Basic poses that express the mysterious motherhood
1. The 45-degree horizontal rule
Turn your body at a 45-degree angle to accentuate the curve of your stomach.
By facing forward or slightly diagonally,
Both the facial expression and the belly are captured beautifully.
2. Arms wrapped around the stomach
Place your hands on your lower and upper abdomen,
Expresses love by "protecting the baby."
Curl your fingertips naturally for a gentle impression.
3. Looking down pose
By lowering your gaze to look at your stomach,
Expresses "dialogue with a baby."
A mysterious photo that conveys the depth of motherhood.
[Couple Photography] A composition that expresses love and bond
1. Wrap-around pose
Dad stands behind Mom and puts his hand on her stomach.
The love of a father who "protects his family"
Expresses the sense of security that mothers feel when they are "supported."
2. Facing each other and touching foreheads
The composition features two people facing each other with their stomachs in the middle.
Expresses the bond of a "family centered around a baby."
3. Hands-Over-Hand Pose
Mommy and Daddy's hands are placed on top of each other on my stomach.
By including the wedding ring in the photo,
Expresses the change from "couple to family."
[Family photo] A warm composition with the older child included
1. Touch your belly together
I asked my older child to say hello to the baby,
All family members place their hands on the stomach.
It represents the budding brotherly love.
2. Composition with the older child as the main character
The joy of becoming a big brother or big sister
The photo focuses on the expression of the older child.
Expresses the feeling of having a new family member.
The golden ratio for beautiful angles
・Camera height: same height as the stomach
Shooting distance: 3-4 meters (full body shot)
- Light direction: Natural light from the front at an angle
More important than the pose is
"Love for the baby in the womb."
If you have that mindset, you will naturally have a beautiful expression.
[Q&A Intermediate] Seasonal photography and how to use ultrasound images
Add a story with the charm of spring, summer, autumn and winter and baby shoes
Q: Do the shooting points change depending on the season?
A: Yes, there are beautiful spots for each season.
Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery express hope
The photo shoot coincided with the cherry blossom season.
It coincides with the birth of a new life and makes for a very beautiful photograph.
However, if you suffer from hay fever, please be careful of your health.
When shooting in a park, use a light cardigan to regulate your body temperature.
Summer (June to August): Greenery and blue skies create a sense of openness
We recommend taking photos in places with lots of greenery or the sea.
However, there is a high risk of heat stroke during pregnancy.
Take photos in the cooler hours of the morning or evening.
Don't forget to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.
Autumn (September-November): Warm photos with autumn leaves
The red and orange autumn leaves are perfect for expressing the warmth of motherhood.
The weather is pleasant, so you can shoot for long periods of time without worry.
Winter (December to February): Mysterious beauty of the snowy scenery
The whiteness of the snow and the beauty of the mother create a fantastical photo.
However, be sure to watch your step and take proper measures to protect yourself from the cold.
Q: Can I take an ultrasound photo at the same time?
A: Ultrasound photos are the best little items !
By taking an ultrasound picture next to your stomach,
"The belly seen from the outside" and "the baby inside"
It can all be captured in one photo.
In particular, ultrasound images that clearly show the baby's face are
Expressing the feeling of "I'll see you soon"
It will be a great item.
Q: What other accessories would make for great photos?
A: We will introduce some small items that will enhance the story.
・Baby shoes
By placing a small shoe in front of your stomach,
It expresses the feeling of looking forward to the day when I can wear these in the future.
·letter
Photographed holding a letter with a "message to the baby."
It will be a wonderful experience when your child reads it in the future.
・Drawings by my older child
Have your older child draw a "baby picture"
Taking a photo together will create a photo that is full of family love.
・Moon age display
Decorate numbers like "8 months" cutely,
It also increases the value of the record.
Small items are not the main focus,
It plays a supporting role in enhancing the beauty of both mother and baby .
The key is to keep it simple and not overuse it.
Five checkpoints for choosing a studio that won't disappoint
From reviews and achievements to costume rentals and parking
How do I choose from the many studios available?
Because it's an important commemorative photo, you definitely don't want to make a mistake.
With experience of seeing over 3,000 couples take maternity photos,
Here are five tips to help you choose a studio you won't regret .
Point 1: Check the track record of maternity photography specialists
In the "Children's Photo Studio" and "Maternity Photo Specialty"
There is a big difference in photography techniques.
How to check:
・Check out over 10 maternity photo examples on the website
- Specify the number of photos taken (e.g., number of groups taken per year)
・The photographer's years of experience in maternity photography
"I'm good at general photography, but I'm not used to maternity photography."
In studios like this, it is not possible to bring out the beauty of your stomach to its fullest.
Point 2: Consideration and services for pregnant women
- Availability of parking (walking can be difficult during the later stages of pregnancy)
・Installation of elevator (going up and down stairs is a burden)
・Enriched rest areas
・Rescheduling if you are unwell
・Breastfeeding and diaper changing space (for those with older children)
A studio with these considerations
This is proof that she has plenty of experience photographing pregnant women.
Point 3: Variety of costumes and options
・Types of maternity dresses (minimum 5 or more)
-Sizes available (M to 3L)
・Rental of small items (flower crowns, baby shoes, etc.)
・Hair styling and makeup services available
"When I went there on the day, there were no costumes I liked."
It is important to check in advance to avoid such mistakes.
Point 4: Transparency of pricing structure
・Clear display of shooting fees
・Data charges (how much per ○○ card)
・Whether there is an additional charge
・Cancellation fee regulations
To avoid the trouble of "it's more expensive than I expected",
Make sure to check the total amount.
Point 5: Actual reviews and atmosphere
・Google reviews and Instagram posts
・Evaluations such as "They were kind to pregnant women" and "I was able to relax"
・Politeness of staff
Responding to inquiries by phone or email,
I get a good feel for the atmosphere in the studio.
If the studio meets these criteria,
You will be left with beautiful photos that you will treasure for a lifetime .
[Q&A Part 2] Emergency response measures for problems on the day of shooting
Solutions to poor health, bad weather, and changes in body shape
Q: What should I do if I feel unwell on the day of the shoot?
A: Please don't hesitate to ask for a change of date.
Shooting when you are not feeling well
・Your facial expression becomes stiff and you can't take beautiful photos
There are risks to the mother and baby
・The commemorative photo becomes a painful memory.
Most studios are understanding of the poor health of pregnant women,
We will accommodate date changes without any cancellation fees.
Don't force yourself by saying, "I made a reservation so..."
"Photos taken when you're feeling well are definitely more beautiful."
Think of it this way.
Q: My belly has suddenly gotten so big that I can't wear the costume I had planned.
A: This is common, so don't worry.
During the later stages of pregnancy, your belly size can change within a week.
If it's a good studio,
- Flexible response to size changes on the day
- Larger size costumes available
・Poses suggested according to the size of your belly
Rather, "my belly has gotten bigger"
It's proof that the baby is growing well .
Take it as a positive thing and approach the shoot with confidence.
Q: We were supposed to shoot outdoors, but it started raining.
A: Rainy days have their own beauty.
- Changed to indoor natural light photography
- Take advantage of soft light when shooting near a window
- Shooting in a quiet and mysterious atmosphere with the sound of rain as background music
If you're a professional photographer,
He has the skills to take beautiful photos regardless of the weather.
Instead of saying, "It's a shame it's raining,"
Think of it as a special photo that could only be taken on this day.
Q: I got bloated during filming.
A: Stop filming immediately and take a break.
It's not uncommon for abdominal distension to occur during the later stages of pregnancy,
Don't overdo it.
How to respond:
- Lie down and rest for 10-15 minutes
・Make sure you stay hydrated
・Relax by taking deep breaths
If the problem persists, stop shooting.
If you are an experienced photographer,
I am also used to the physical changes of pregnant women,
Please feel free to let us know any changes in your health.
No matter what, the safety of the baby and mother comes first.
Don't forget this and try to shoot comfortably.
Experiences of senior moms and tips from experts for success
How to take commemorative photos that will become a lifelong treasure
Finally, we actually took maternity photos.
We will introduce real experiences from experienced mothers.
What emerges from this is "what is truly important"
We will share with you the perspective of an expert.
[Success Story] Ms. A (32 years old, first child)
"At first I was shy and hesitant,
The photographer said, "We're taking pictures of the baby in your belly too."
He said that and my feelings changed.
During the shoot, the baby was moving around in my belly.
It was as if he was saying, "I want to be in the photo too."
Now, when I look at that photo with my two-year-old son,
He looks at it happily and says, "That was when I was in mommy's tummy."
I'm really glad I filmed it."
[Regretful Experience] Ms. B (28 years old, multiparous woman)
"With my first child, I didn't film it because I thought it would be embarrassing.
However, after giving birth, I regretted it when I saw my friend's maternity photos...
I decided that I would definitely take photos during my second pregnancy,
This was taken in a studio when he was 8 months old.
"Why didn't I take a photo with my first child?"
I truly regret it.
The image of a woman during pregnancy is a precious record that can only be preserved at that time.
Experts analyze the secrets to success
What emerges from these experiences is that
It's more about feeling than technique .
Successful shoots have one thing in common:
・The idea of taking a commemorative photo with your baby
・Enjoying photography
・Natural without striving for perfection
・A sense of unity with the whole family participating
Conversely, the most common reasons for regret are:
・I didn't take any photos because I was "embarrassed"
- Worrying too much about my "imperfect body shape"
・Things that you put off by saying "next time"
Finally, a message to expectant mothers
Maternity photography is not a photography technique.
"To give shape to the love for the baby in my womb."
As long as you have that love, you can shoot in any way.
Any outfit, any pose,
It will definitely be a beautiful commemorative photo.
This special time that only exists now,
Please keep it as a photo.
Surely the baby in my belly
You're probably looking forward to your first family photo.
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