Tips for Solo Hershey PA Outdoor Maternity Photography

09.15.25

As you’re browsing maternity photos looking for inspiration for your Hershey PA outdoor maternity photography, you’ll probably notice that some photo shoots include the mom-to-be as well as her spouse or partner, and some feature mom-to-be solo. I’ve worked with countless clients in both camps, and I can assure you that I can create gorgeous maternity photos in either case! But if you’re hesitant about getting your portraits taken on your own or if you want some ideas for posing in your portraits without a partner to play off of, I’ve got you!

A mom-to-be poses in a beautiful, yellow flower field at sunset at her Hershey PA Maternity Photo session with Karissa Zimmer Photography

First and Foremost: Trust Your Photographer

As I mentioned, and as you’ll see as you browse my maternity photos on my website, I have ample experience working with solo moms-to-be, whether you’re a single mom, your partner or spouse just couldn’t make it to the session, or you prefer to enjoy your maternity photo shoot as some “me time.” Believe me, I want you to adore your maternity photos too, and I know exactly how to make that happen. I’ll guide you through every pose, so just relax, rely on my guidance, and trust that I’ll be able to make you look your absolute best.

An expecting mother poses in a flowy white dress at her outdoor pregnancy photoshoot

Practice Your Smile Before Your Hershey PA Outdoor Maternity Photography

Truthfully, this can be helpful for anyone getting ready for a photo shoot, but in the case of solo maternity photos, it can really help you feel more confident and natural in front of the camera. Spend a little time in front of the mirror trying out different smiles and seeing which ones you like best, and practice those smiles so you know how they feel. This will help you to love your smile when it’s time for that photo shoot. But of course, if you don’t get time to do this, don’t worry - I’ll give you guidance if your smile is too big, too small, etc.

Best Hershey Maternity Photographer captures a beautiful image of a pregnant mom to be in a field of yellow flowers.

Psych Yourself Up on the Photo Shoot Day

Partners can be great to help us feel confident in ourselves - after all, they see you with a lens of love and adoration - but if you’re flying solo on your photo shoot day, treat yourself to get your confidence boost. Get a fresh mani pedi, take full advantage of professional hair and makeup services before your photo shoot, book a dinner out with friends for afterward to celebrate, or whatever it is that makes you feel like the glowing mama that you are!

A beautiful expecting mother closes her eyes as she holds her belly at her outdoor photography session in Central PA

Consider a Location That’s Special to You

A solo maternity photo shoot is truly a celebration of you and of this moment in your life. You’re making a miracle by creating a new life, and you should feel like a goddess! When you’re the one and only star of your maternity photos, you can tailor every aspect of the photo shoot based on what you love, and that includes the location.

As we’re planning location ideas for your Hershey PA outdoor maternity photography, let me know any locations in the area that might be special to you, like a park where you love to spend time, a place where you have wonderful memories, and so on. Your photo shoot is all about you, so let’s truly make it one of a kind.

Outdoor Maternity Photography by Karissa Zimmer Photography

I’m in Your Corner for Your Hershey PA Outdoor Maternity Photography

Remember that even if you won’t have a spouse or partner with you for your maternity photo shoot, you’re far from alone - you’re with a professional who will guide you at every step of the way and make you feel like a million bucks at the same time. You’ve got a cheerleader in me, and I know how to make every shot count for you. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography and let’s chat!

Best Hershey PA Maternity Photography

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Tips for Including Kids in a Hershey PA Outdoor Maternity Photo Shoot

05.17.25

If you already have kids at home and you have a new baby on the way, one of the choices you’ll have to make about your Hershey PA outdoor maternity photo shoot is whether to include your kids in some of your portraits. This is an incredibly personal decision, and as a maternity photographer and a mom, I think both choices are equally valid and respectable. You do what feels best to you!

If you do choose to include your children in a maternity photo shoot, it’s true that this does take a bit of extra planning and coordination, but I’m here to help! Here are a few tips for a maternity photo session with kids.

A Family of 3 poses while anxiously awaiting the arrival of a newborn baby boy at their outdoor family and maternity photography session in Hershey PA

Consider a Child-Friendly Location for Your Hershey PA Outdoor Maternity Photo Shoot

Choosing a location is one of the most important parts of planning any photo shoot because it affects the aesthetics of your photos so much. Don’t worry, because I know all the best spots in the area for every season and I’m happy to help you choose a setting!

If you’re bringing your child, I’ll take that into consideration and look for a location where you child can have some fun. This might mean an area that has more space to run around and play rather than a small wooded clearing. This way, your child can have more fun during the session and we can let their playful little personality come out.

Best maternity photography near Hershey PA

Have a Plan for Child-Free Portraits

As special as it is for your child to be in your maternity portraits, this photo shoot is ultimately about you and your motherhood journey - you’re the star! I think it’s so important to have at least some portraits of you solo.

To make these solo portraits smoother, bring something to keep your child occupied during those shots, like a toy or game they enjoy.

A mom and dad to be share a moment at their outdoor maternity photography session with Karissa Zimmer Photography

Booking Your Family Maternity Portraits

Your maternity photo shoot should be an exciting and enjoyable celebration of your pregnancy and your anticipation for the amazing gift you’re welcoming into your family. Whether you’re including your children or not, I’m here to make it a fantastic time! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography and let’s chat about how to make your maternity photos magical.

A mom to be poses for maternity photos at a beautiful outdoor location near Hershey PA

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Choosing a Location for Your York PA Maternity Photos

01.09.25

Your maternity photos should be one of your favorite mementos of the epic and unique journey that is your pregnancy. The magic all starts with the right photo shoot location. As you scroll through my maternity portfolio you’ll see portraits in countless different settings, so how do you choose the best location for your own York PA maternity photos? Start with these steps.

1. Decide Between a Studio Session or Another Location

First things first: do you want a studio maternity photo shoot or do you want a separate location? My studio has all the equipment and comforts we need and gives you the most versatility as far as what types of looks and styles you want me to create. On the other hand, outdoor portraits are incredibly popular because of the stunning landscapes in our area and the beautiful natural look that many moms want. You might also have an option for indoor portraits at a location like your home or another venue you might have available to you, but most maternity photo shoots are either in my studio or outdoors. There’s no wrong answer, it’s just a matter of your preference.

Expectant mother and father are photographed in beautiful hydrangeas near York PA by Karissa Zimmer Photography

2. Envision the Look You Want

What do you see in your mind when you envision your ideal maternity portraits? What’s the overall style you want and the feel you want your portraits to have? Maybe you want them to be dramatic or fashionable or maybe you want them to be natural and airy. The location really sets the tone for your session.

York PA couple photographed outdoors during their maternity session with Karissa Zimmer

3. Consider Somewhere Sentimental

This isn’t a must-do, but some moms have a special location in mind for their maternity portraits. In the portraits featured in this blog, the mom-to-be chose to take her maternity portraits with her husband at the Stone Mill Inn, the venue where they got married. I was thrilled that the owner gave their permission for this photo session and it makes the portraits so much more special because of all the memories tied to the location.

Pregnant mother interacts with her toddler son during their outdoor Maternity Photography session

4. Use Your Photographer’s Expertise for York PA Maternity Photos

I’ve been a photographer for nearly 20 years and I know all the best spots in the area for maternity photos! While you and I plan your session together, we’ll talk through the aesthetic you want and the season when your portraits will be and I’ll have plenty of location recommendations to create the maternity photos of your dreams.

Pregnant mother-to-be is photographed in a beautiful outdoor setting near York Pennsylvania

Planning Your Maternity Portraits

You deserve maternity photos that you’ll remember and love for a lifetime and I’m here to make that happen! Reach out to Karissa Zimmer Photography and let’s get started.

Best Maternity Photography near York PA

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Now is the Time to Book Your Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos for the Summer!

02.07.24

It’s cold and wintery in Pennsylvania right now, so it’s refreshing to look back on this stunning maternity photo shoot in Gettysburg last summer and to think ahead to the warm, sunny summer maternity photos to come. It’s also the perfect time for me to remind you: now is the perfect time to book your central Pennsylvania maternity photos for the summer!

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Why Book Your Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Early

January may seem early to be thinking about summer maternity photos, but trust me, it’s the perfect time! If you’ll be in the late stages of your pregnancy in the summer, there are several reasons to schedule and start planning your summer maternity portraits now.

Find Availability for Your Preferred Date

Simply put, my schedule fills up quickly! The cycle of life never stops so I photograph newborn, maternity, and baby photos all year round. The summer, though, is also a popular time for my clients to schedule family photos and senior portraits. I only accept a limited number of photo sessions each month so I can give every client the personalized attention and custom service you deserve, so my books fill up early. Now is the best time to schedule if you want to have options during the ideal time in your pregnancy for maternity portraits.

Start Planning Early for Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos

Every client I work with is different, but many moms-to-be love planning the outfits and fun details of their maternity photos! All of this, though, will depend on where and when your photo shoot will be. Booking your session now will allow you to set those details so you can start thinking about the fun aspects of your session.

Move On with Other Projects

While maternity photography is something many women look forward to, figuring out the logistics like the scheduling can be stressful. You have a lot on your plate during this exciting time! Booking your maternity session early lets you get the logistics set and out of the way so you can move on with your to-do list.

Book Your Summer Central Pennsylvania Maternity Photos Today

Let’s start planning your dream maternity portraits together! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography to book your session.

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Tips for Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

12.20.23

Unless you have meticulous planning and a lot of luck on your side, you can’t choose the season for your maternity portraits. You’re at the ideal point in your pregnancy for maternity photos for only a short time, and that will fall at whatever time of the year that it falls. Here’s the good news: a skilled maternity photographer can make your portraits stunning in any season! That includes your Harrisburg winter maternity photo session.

What can you do to make your winter maternity session even better? I’ve got you! Follow these top tips.

Best Maternity Photography near Harrisburg

1. Embrace Wintery Accessories

Winter is the perfect time to play with some gorgeous accessories for your maternity photos. Think luxurious scarves, fur or faux fur wraps, couture gloves, and so on. Not only are these the peak of winter fashion but they’ll keep you warmer during your session. They add fabulous texture to your portraits too, making for more dimension and calling more attention to your gorgeous self.

winter maternity photography near Harrisburg PA

2. Moisturize and Hydrate Before Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

We all know our skin tends to be dry in the winter, thanks to the dry winter air and the drying effect of heaters. When you’re taking portraits, though, hydration is your friend. Hydrated, moisturized skin is brighter, smoother, glowier, and even younger-looking! In the week before your maternity photo session, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water as well as moisturizing your skin.

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3. Bring Warming Items for In Between Shots

This isn’t a must, but if you choose, you can bring some extra items for warmth that you can use in between poses and shots. This could include hand warmers and feet warmers, gloves, blankets, and so on. Regardless of whether you bring these items, though, I’ll always be mindful of your comfort and aim to work quickly while creating all the lovely winter portraits you love.

4. Discuss Logistics for Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

Choosing a fantastic location is always important for outdoor photography, but it’s even more essential for outdoor winter maternity photography. Not only do we want a location that has the aesthetic look you want but we want that location to be practical too (you won’t want to hike half a mile into the woods when it’s 20 degrees out). Don’t worry, I’ve been taking outdoor winter portraits for years and I have a well-planned list of the perfect winter photo shoot sites. As we plan your maternity photo session together, we’ll talk about which location will best suit all of your needs.

Maternity portraits in winter near Harrisburg PA

5. Be Open to Recommendations and Flexibility Due to the Weather

Some moms-to-be have specific visions in mind when they picture their winter maternity photos. Maybe you want a certain type of landscape in the background or you want a nice snow covering on the ground. I love it when my clients are already dreaming of their photos. Just keep in mind, though, that you may need to be flexible with your timing if we need to adjust your photo session for the weather, either to create the look you want or to make sure we can all be safe on the roads.

mom to be poses at outdoor winter maternity photo session near Harrisburg pa

6. Wear Winter-Friendly Footwear

In most winter maternity photo shoots, we stick with long, flowy maternity gowns so you won’t see your feet. If you do have a pair of shoes or boots you want in your portraits, though, I’m happy to make that happen. I just suggest that you wear winter boots to walk to the photo shoot location and only bring those beautiful shoes or boots along so you can wear them as little as possible. This helps you stay safe on the wintery ground and keeps those featured shoes from getting too dirty.

7. Try to Relax

When the weather is cold, many of us unintentionally tense our bodies against the cold. This can make you look stiff in portraits, and we want to showcase what an effortless beauty you are. As much as possible, try to relax your body and allow me to guide your posing.

Booking Your Harrisburg Winter Maternity Photo Session

Dreaming of gorgeous, wintery maternity portraits? Let’s get started! Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today to book your session.

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A Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography Shoot: Pros and Cons of Outdoor Maternity Portraits

03.07.23

Have a baby on the way? Congratulations! Maternity photography is a phenomenal way to celebrate this one-of-a-kind stage in your family’s life, honor your body for the beautiful work it’s doing, and create mementos you will forever treasure. What type of maternity photo session is the best fit for you? Should you book a Mechanicsburg outdoor fall maternity photography shoot?

All of my maternity photo shoots take place on location, either at an outdoor location we can choose together like a local park or, for a more intimate setting, at your home. Both types of sessions have the potential for absolutely stunning and meaningful maternity portraits; it’s just a matter of your personal preference. To help you decide, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of outdoor maternity shoots.

Outdoor Maternity Portraits — Mechanicsburg Outdoor Maternity Photography

Pro: Beautiful Natural Scenery for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography (or Spring or Summer)

I have the honor of living in an area with incredible natural beauty and with pronounced seasons that each have their own look, and I love taking advantage of this for my client’s benefit. You can have effortlessly gorgeous backgrounds in your photos.

The look of your outdoor portraits will depend on the location we choose, and I’m here to help. You and I can choose a location together based on the aesthetic you want for your portraits and the season when your session will take place. I have plenty of location recommendations around Mechanicsburg, whether you want vibrant fall colors, open green space, misty lakes, or even an outdoor urban look.

Con: Difficulty Taking Semi-Nude Portraits

Some moms-to-be love those semi-nude maternity portraits that showcase their baby bump in all its glory and celebrate their body for the incredible work it’s doing. These often turn out to be my clients’ favorite portraits in their collections, and rightfully so!

Taking these intimate portraits outdoors can be a bit uncomfortable for some women, though. Depending on the season, you might be physically uncomfortable and self-conscious as well about being partially undressed outside. Some moms-to-be prefer a photo session at home for these types of portraits.

Pro: Create Special Family Memories

An outdoor maternity session is more than just a means to an end for getting the maternity portraits you want. It’s an adventure! An outdoor photo session gives you and your family a chance to enjoy a new experience together in a park or other fun spot.

This is especially fantastic if you have other children you’re bringing into the portraits too. Your family gets the opportunity to not only create beautiful portraits but to make new memories together at the same time.

Con: Potential Weather-Related Challenges for Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography

The same thing that makes outdoor portraits gorgeous is the thing that makes them unpredictable: the outdoors. Natural landscapes are lovely but you never know for sure what the weather will do. There’s always a risk that you’ll need to reschedule or make accommodations for rain, strong winds, or other weather changes.

Pro: No Need to Prep Your Home

Lifestyle portraits at your home are always unique and special, and I tell all my clients that your home doesn’t need to be spotless by any means. Still, it can be stressful for some moms-to-be to have a photo shoot in their home, and some women just don’t think their home will be very photogenic. Maybe you’re still working on your baby’s nursery or other projects around the house and you don’t feel like it’s camera-ready. For some families, it’s just more comfortable to take their portraits elsewhere.

Con: Wardrobe Limitations

Some clients who come to me have been dreaming of their maternity portraits for months and have an idea in their mind of the exact wardrobe they want to wear. I love when clients are excited about their portraits! It’s important to keep in mind, though, that for outdoor portraits, your wardrobe will depend on the weather. For instance, for Mechanicsburg outdoor fall maternity photography, you’ll need to wear something fall-appropriate so that your outfit aligns with the fall aesthetic (and so you’re comfortable, of course).

Creating the Mechanicsburg Outdoor Fall Maternity Photography of Your Dreams

I love working with moms-to-be who are thrilled to celebrate their pregnancy and this special time in their lives with maternity portraits. Contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s start planning your dream photo shoot!

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Harrisburg Maternity Portrait Tips for Couples

01.31.23

If you ever want to get a mom to chat, ask her about her pregnancy experience and she’ll have hours’ worth of stories to tell. Pregnancy is a stage of life that is so unlike any other, between the experience of the pregnancy itself and the anticipation of knowing you’ll soon meet the child who will change your life forever. That’s why your Harrisburg maternity portrait will become such a treasured heirloom.

While the mom-to-be is, of course, the star of maternity portraits, many couples want to include both partners in some of their photos to celebrate their growing family together. How do you make those couple maternity portraits truly spectacular? On top of hiring a photographer who specializes in maternity portraits, use these top tips.

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Choose an Aesthetic That Feels Genuine for Your Harrisburg Maternity Portrait Session

Your maternity portraits should be a celebration of you and your family, so you’ll notice that every maternity photo shoot looks different. Some have a dramatic look, others are bright and airy, some have a very earthy, nature-focused vibe, some are more conventional, and so on.

You want an aesthetic for your portraits that feels authentic to you as a couple. Take some time to think about what aesthetic style you want for your portraits and pick out some examples from your photographer’s gallery that reflect the look you like. During consultations with my Harrisburg maternity portrait clients, I chat with them about their vision and design a session that centers around them.

Communicate Your Comfort Level

You may be aware that in maternity photo shoots, it’s very common to have some level of nudity. There may be portraits in which the parents are shirtless together, or the mom-to-be may be fully nude with flowy fabrics covering select areas, for example. This is a popular look because it highlights the majestic beauty of pregnancy.

As beautiful as nude and semi-nude portraits can be, not everyone is comfortable showing this much skin, and that is perfectly fine. If you’ll both be in your maternity portraits, let your photographer know what each of you is and is not comfortable with.

Choose Outfits Together

Planning outfits can be challenging for a photo shoot, and the more people are involved, the more strategic you need to be. As you’re planning outfits for your maternity portrait session, make sure you and your partner choose outfits that coordinate with each other, rather than each of you choosing outfits separately. Make sure your outfits fit the overall aesthetic you’re going for. I’m happy to look over the outfits you’re considering and offer suggestions. When in doubt, it never hurts to bring extra options!

Focus on Each Other

One of the reasons I love featuring couples in maternity portraits is the opportunity to capture the love between them and the excitement of growing their family. During your maternity photo session, try not to think about the camera and the photos. As your photographer poses you and has you gazing at the baby bump or looking into your partner’s eyes, think about the love of your life and the new baby you have on the way.

When you bring your mindset back to this love and excitement, it shows in your eyes and your authentic smile. You’ll be thrilled when you see how all that emotion comes out in your portraits, and the portraits will be an even more special memento of the way you felt during this time in your life.

Creating Magical Harrisburg Maternity Portraits for Couples

Great maternity portraits for you and your partner start and end with an excellent photographer who knows maternity photography and knows how to capture your genuine joy. As a Harrisburg maternity portrait photographer, I’d be thrilled to help you and your partner preserve this incredible time in your lives with custom photography.

To book your maternity session or to learn more about the process, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s get started.

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How to Prepare for Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

04.15.22

Congratulations on your pregnancy, Mama! For all its aches and pains, pregnancy is truly a beautiful time in your life and it’s the start of the most incredible journey. It will be over before you know it, so don’t miss your opportunity to preserve that pregnancy glow on a canvas with maternity portraits. For many moms who are expecting their second, third, or fourth (or later!) child, their pregnancy is a special shared experience for their family, so naturally, they want to include the whole family in their maternity pictures. I happen to love working with kids, so some of my favorite photos to take are family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA!

You can get your photography session started on the right foot with a little preparation. Follow these tips for a magical family maternity portrait session.

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Have an Aesthetic in Mind

Moms are notorious for putting their kids first and themselves last, but your maternity photo session is ultimately about you! Think about how you want your portraits to look. Imagine where you want to display them in your home and what aesthetic you want to capture. As your hometown maternity photographer, I can take your vision and bring it to life by giving you personal guidance on color palettes and wardrobe ideas that will create the look you want.

Choose Your Dream Location for Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Now that you have a vision in mind for your family maternity portraits, you want to choose the perfect backdrop for those pictures. Luckily for all of my clients planning family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA, our area has countless gorgeous outdoor locations ripe for portraits. I have a few favorites that I’ll be happy to share during our consultation. Or, if you prefer, we can plan an indoor session in your home instead. Many of my clients opt for stunning photos within their baby’s nursery.

Plan a Bag of Tricks for Your Kids

We live in the age of social media, so you’ve probably snapped countless pictures of your kids at home. You know, then, how difficult it can be to coax a smile out of a young child at just the right time. Kids who are shy smilers tend to be just as shy during a professional photo session too.

You know your kids better than anyone so you know how to make them smile. Try bringing a “bag of tricks” like a puppet that always gets a giggle, a sound that makes them smile or gets their attention, or other tricks and tools to help me get plenty of shots of those heart-warming smiles.

Invest in Yourself!

Let’s all be honest: pregnancy is stressful. There’s always so much to do to prepare for your baby. For the day of your family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA, though, you deserve to just relax and get pampered like the queen you are. Consider scheduling professional hair and makeup services so you can look your best without adding more work to your plate.

Consider Bringing a Helping Hand to Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

As much as you’ll love having maternity photos of your entire family, you’ll also want some portraits that specifically highlight you and your bond with your beloved baby, or you and your significant other. Trust me, the last thing you want to be doing is struggling to watch and discipline your kids while you’re posing for portraits.

You might think about bringing along someone like a friend, nanny, or grandparent to help keep an eye on the kiddos while you and your significant other are in front of the camera. Or, you could arrange for someone to pick up your kids when their photos are done and take them to a playdate until you’re done with your own photos.

Communicate with Your Photographer

This is a biggie! Remember that family maternity photos in Camp Hill, PA are what I do on a daily basis. I’m not just here to snap pictures – I’m here to make the entire process easy and stress-free for you while creating spectacular images you’ll treasure forever. Keep an open line of communication and let me know what you want from your session, what sentimental items you might want to incorporate, and so on. With your vision in mind, I can take it from there and create an experience you’ll lovingly remember throughout your baby’s life.

Schedule Your Family Maternity Photos in Camp Hill

Ready to take the leap and start planning your amazing family maternity photos? Call my Camp Hill, PA photography studio today to book your session and start building your dream with my help.

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Your Guide to Combining a Maternity and Family Photoshoot

02.18.22

Pregnancy is a time full of magic for any excited mom-to-be, but in some ways, it’s even better when you have other kids in the house too. Kids have the ability to experience the pure and genuine joy that’s unsullied by the worries of adulthood that are nagging under the surface for every parent-to-be. When you see that glee in your kids’ eyes as they think about their arriving baby brother or sister or when they feel the baby kick in your belly, it pushes those worries aside and reminds us all of the beauty of pregnancy. What better way to celebrate your pregnancy and the happiness it’s bringing to your family than with a maternity family photoshoot? As a family maternity photographer who has captured countless growing families over the years, I’m proud to share some insight into this experience and how you can get the most from your session.

outdoor family and maternity photographer captures images of a family of 3 before they become a family of 4

Why Incorporate the Family into a Maternity Photo Session?

In a maternity photo shoot, the star of the day is always the mom-to-be. After all, it’s your body that’s doing the wondrous work of creating a new baby, and we need to get that glorious glow on camera!

In a family pregnancy photoshoot, you and your baby bump are still the primary focus. We just add a few shots of your family into the mix. It’s a fantastic way to capture the last few weeks you’ll spend with your older kids alone before adding a new baby to the family. Including your kids in your maternity photos is also a great way to help them feel more involved in your pregnancy and in the new baby, encouraging them to develop more of a bond with the baby before their little sister or brother arrives.

Camp Hill Pa Family and Maternity Photographer captures a family together at their outdoor maternity photography session

family of 3 embraces at their maternity photography session

Tips for a Smoother Maternity Family Photoshoot with Kids

If you want to give your kids the gift of a family maternity shoot they’ll treasure as much as you do, there are plenty of ways you can make it a smoother, easier experience for everyone and a fun memory for your kids.

Give Everyone Time in the Spotlight

Over the years, I’ve seen that kids can have many different reactions to the idea of a baby sibling. Some are thrilled from day one and want to be involved in everything. Other times, kids are more hesitant. If you have a big-sibling-in-training who might have a hard time getting on board for a family maternity session, it can help to make sure each child feels special by giving them their own photos. This way, every child feels valued on their own and they’re more likely to fully participate in the photoshoot.

Coordinate Everyone’s Outfits

You already know that you and your loving kids go together like peas and carrots, but in your family maternity shoot, you want to create a visual cohesiveness too by coordinating everyone’s looks. All of my photo sessions are performed on location, either at your home or at an outdoor location. Think about where you’ll have your session and what colors will look best against those backgrounds. Not sure about the color scheme? I can help!

There are a few reminders to note as well. First, have a backup outfit for each person. Kids have a special knack for getting messy at the most inopportune times, especially if you’re having an outdoor photo shoot. Second, keep in mind that you can wear a few different outfits for your maternity portraits, and your family’s outfits only need to coordinate with one of them. Feel free to choose stunning maternity gowns in bold colors for your solo photos.

pregnant bother embraces her toddler son at her maternity and family photo session with karissa zimmer photography

Pack for Comfort

My family maternity sessions last for 1-2 hours, and they’re all done on location. If you choose a location other than your home, that means your family will be out of the house for up to two hours plus the time it takes to get there and get home.

Remember that while you’ll be busy striking gorgeous poses throughout the session, your kids will have some downtime while we’re taking your solo portraits. Plan ahead to bring anything your kids will need to be comfortable for those few hours. That could include toys, on-the-go games, snacks, drinks, blankets, diapers, and more.

Choose Your Photographer Wisely

As you’re looking for a photographer for your portraits, make sure you look for experienced family maternity photographers. Not all maternity photographers have experience working with kids. I’m proud to have spent years pulling together my bag tricks for working with kids. I’ve mastered the art of getting kids into every parent’s favorite poses, capturing candids of kids being themselves, and coaxing smiles out of even the most hesitant of faces.

family of 3 poses together at their family and maternity photography session with karissa zimmer photography

Planning Your Maternity Family Photoshoot

If you have a precious new baby on the way and you want to preserve this moment with your entire family, now is the time to book your session. Contact my photo studio today to get on the schedule and start planning this gift to yourself that you’ll treasure forever.

family and maternity photographer captures outdoor maternity photography images near camp hill pa

couple embraces during their outdoor maternity photoshoot with camp hill pa photographer

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Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Camp Hill Maternity Photography

03.05.21

husband kisses wife on the forehead at their camp hill maternity session

In the past few years, Camp Hill maternity photography sessions have become more popular and much more common. You’ve probably seen tons of maternity photos on your social media feeds as your friends celebrate their pregnancies. Maybe you’ve considered a maternity session but just aren’t sure if it’s right for you.

Well, if you have questions about maternity photography, I have answers! I put together some information on what to expect from a maternity session. And if you have any questions we don’t answer here, feel free to contact us and ask!

What is a maternity session?

A maternity session is a professional photoshoot during the third trimester of your pregnancy that captures your baby bump and your anticipation as you prepare to welcome your new baby into the world. For first-time parents, it’s a fun way to mark and celebrate the transition into parenthood. For parents who already have kids, it’s often an opportunity for a photoshoot with the whole family.

posed couple maternity photos in camp hill pa

maternity pictures capture expecting mom at her maternity session

Why should I book a Camp Hill maternity photography session?

There are so many reasons why maternity photography is worth the investment. I may be a little biased as a photographer, but I believe important moments in your life should be captured so you can look back on those memories for years to come. Whether this is your first child or not, your life and your family are both about to change in big ways. A maternity photo session allows you to capture the moment right before that change and celebrate what you and your partner have created together: a growing family.

family maternity pictures captured my karissa zimmer photography

What should I wear for maternity photos?

Like any photography session, this depends on your unique style and personality! My favorite option for maternity photos are flowing, floor-length gowns that give off an air of grace and elegance. They often make my maternity clients feel especially beautiful! But you can also wear your favorite maternity outfit, especially for a lifestyle session in your home.

When it comes to choosing a color, I always recommend opting for earth or jewel tones that are flattering to most skin tones, or even light pastels. Be sure to wear clothing that is fitted rather than flowy, so you can easily show off your bump!

parents pose with their little boy during maternity session with karissa zimmer photography

When should I book a Camp Hill maternity photography session?

It’s never too soon to book! If you find a photographer you love, be sure to go ahead and book your session as soon as possible to ensure they have space for you on their calendar. As far as timing, you’ll want to schedule your session for some time after your 28^th week of pregnancy when your bump is very visible but you’re not quite ready to pop just yet! If you’re expecting multiples, schedule your session for a little earlier, as your bump will already be more pronounced.

maternity photographer in camp hill captures family together during their session

What should I do with my maternity photos?

There are so many options! You can always share your images on social media, but I also recommend purchasing wall art or other print products like albums to create a family keepsake. As your child grows up, they will love having the chance to look back and see what your life was like before they were born—and how excited you were to welcome them into your family. Maternity photos also make great gifts for the grandparents-to-be!

family poses together during their camp hill maternity photography session with karissa zimmer phtography

How do I find the right maternity photographer?

When choosing a photographer for your maternity session, you want to find someone whose style matches your vision for your images. Ask friends and family for recommendations of local photographers or check out Instagram or Pinterest for images you like and photographers in your area.

Remember that your experience is just as important as the photos you receive! So, talk to your favorite photographer about their process and the products they have to offer. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have! The more you know, the better you can make an informed decision about what photographer is right for you.

camp hill pa maternity photographer captures family together during their session

Karissa Zimmer Photography | Camp Hill PA Maternity Photographer

Thank you so much for visiting Karissa Zimmer Photography! As a luxury portrait photographer, I want to make sure each photo session is a wonderful experience for my clients, and that it results in cherished keepsakes for your family.

My goal for each session is to create printed, tangible and beautiful artwork for your home and life. This includes heirloom albums, fine art framed print, modern Italian wall art and custom artwork created just for your style. Your portrait memories should be a testament of your life and passed down for generations to come.

Book Your Session

Interested in booking a session? Please enter your information here and you can expect a phone call from me! Just a little reminder: Maternity, Newborn, baby and family sessions do book several months in advance. For newborn portrait sessions please be sure to contact me while you are still pregnant. Maternity sessions typically take place between weeks 33-36 of your pregnancy. Newborn sessions take place within the first 10 days of your baby’s life. I book a very limited number of newborn sessions each month, so please contact me as soon as possible to set up your consultation to reserve a spot. I can’t wait to welcome you into my studio and capture these precious memories for you!

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