How to Choose the Best Maternity Photographer in Houston | HOUSTON, TEXAS - Maternity Photographer
Houston, Texas Maternity Photographer | Tiffany Daniel Photography
One of the most common questions I hear is, “How do I choose the perfect maternity photographer?” Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but finding the perfect photographer to capture those fleeting moments can be daunting. As a Houston, Texas maternity photographer, I’m here to help you navigate this process.
Even though I’m a maternity photographer, I felt paralyzed when it came to choosing a photographer. I couldn’t decide on the style I wanted and felt overwhelmed when looking into the hundreds of incredible maternity photographers in Houston.
This guide will empower expectant moms in Houston to choose the perfect maternity photographer for stunning maternity photography.
Define Your Vision
Think about what type of maternity photoshoot you want. Do you prefer candid shots and natural expressions or posed shots? Studio maternity photographers near you often can often provide you with posed looks, while outdoor photographer usually aim to capture more spontaneous moments and focus on emotional connections. Studio photographers are not just limited to posed shots, they can also beautifully capture the emotional connections between partners and family members.
Consider what you want to convey in your images by choosing a mood and tone. Do you want to embrace your changing body and have more of an empowerment session, celebrating your new curves or do you want to express warmth and intimacy?
Explore various styles of different Houston maternity photographers by searching for “The Best Houston Maternity Photos” to inspire looks for your vision.
Research and Recommendations
When searching for the perfect maternity photographer for you, ask friends or family who have recently had maternity sessions for recommendations. The experience a photographer gives can make or break your entire process. Do they communicate with their clients well? What types of services do they provide?
Searching social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are an excellent way to find a photographer who has a style you’re drawn to. Search hashtags like #HoustonTexasMaternityPhotographer or #HoustonTexasPregnancyPhotos.
Above all check real reviews on Google to get a better understanding of how photographers conduct their business and to get an insight on their clients’ experiences by different photographers in Houston.
Portfolio Review
Look for a portfolio that is consistent in style and aethestics. You’ll want to look for consistent style of editing throughout their portfolio to get a clear vision of how they shoot and edit. A well-rounded Houston maternity photographer should demonstrate skill in various lighting and settings.
Pay attention to variety of shots. Do they showcase use of difference poses, settings, props? You want to look for both close-up as well as full body shots to get a good idea of how they shoot.
Studio vs. Outdoor Sessions
Houston HEAT! We can’t get away from it and seems to last until January! Last year, I had a maternity session in late December and my client was sweating bullets in the heat. It was at that moment I decided to offer studio sessions. Let’s not even discuss the bugs here in Houston!
Studio sessions can provide so much more than air-condition and bug free environments. You’re not limited to a specific time of day, which is great when toddlers are involved, but professional lighting will create the classic, perfect maternity portraits. My sessions always include hair and make-up before the shoot. Your hair and make-up is guaranteed to stay perfect when shooting indoors.
On the other hand, outdoor sessions offer natural beauty and gorgeous setting sun lighting, ideal for a relaxed vibe. Consider what your comfort level is and ask yourself if you’d be more comfortable in a studio or outdoors?
Questions to Ask Potential Photographers
Experience with Maternity Photography: Ask potential photographers how long they’ve specialized in maternity photography? An experienced Houston maternity photographer will be well versed in posing expectant moms and will be able to direct you through posing.
What’s Included in Packages?: Ask if their fee includes any additional services such as professional hair and makeup, access to client wardrobe, posing coaching, design consultations, extra family members/fur babies or guidance for selecting and ordering photographs. Insider tip: Photographers who offer these additional services are often established professionals running legitimate businesses you can trust to deliver a high-quality experience.
Session Length and Timing: Ask how long the session typically lasts and when they recommend scheduling it (generally around 28-32 weeks) for the best bump shots.
Outfit Changes: Ask how many outfit changes you are allowed to make. You want enough variety in your photographs to give you different looks and that takes time. Make sure they have time to bring your vision to life and your session doesn’t feel rushed.
BONUS Question for YOU: This is a great time to ask YOURSELF “Where do I see my pictures in five years?” What will I do with these pictures? How will I store them for safe keeping? If you want to preserve these photographs forever and want a professional to handle everything for you, you should probably consider hiring a photographer who is also a print art specialist. ***If you’re not a subscriber to our newsletter, now is a great time to add yourself to receive helpful tips as well as early access to VIP special offers. Click here to become a subscriber.
Understanding Pricing and Packages
Discuss the price range you’re comfortable with and be open to spending more than you originally thought. You want the best experience possible and you don’t want budget to stand in the way. If a photographer is out of your budget but you love their style and what they offer, save for the experience just as you would any other splurge. The best Houston maternity photos often come from photographers who invest time and resources into their craft.
Explore the options and benefits of working with a full-service photographer who provides guidance on styling, offers client wardrobes/hair and make-up, and high-quality printed artwork. Digitals are a necessity but also ask yourself “where do I see these photos in five years?”
If you’re a DIY person, great but if you’re busy and know that you’d like that taken care of you, find a photographer who offers prints as well as digitals.
Houston, Texas - Maternity Photographer | Tiffany Daniel Photography
Comfort and Connection
Comfort is everything while shooting your maternity photos. You’ll be in vulnerable positions and possibly clothing so you’ll want some who makes you feel safe and confident.
Schedule a pre-consultation to make sure you feel comfortable and to discuss your vision and ensure your styles align. Use this time to discuss ideas and share preferences, as well as ask any questions you may have.
I always leave each session feeling like my clients are now my friends! We laugh and have so much fun creating their images that it’s only natural that we would form a relationship afterwards.
Final Thoughts
Trust your instincts when choosing a maternity photographer. The right person will resonate with you and your vision to allow you to have a great experience! This is such a beautiful time in your life. Select a photographer that will take beautiful photos for you to remember this beautiful season of your life.
Have we checked all of your boxes and you’re ready to learn more about our full service studio?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your maternity photoshoot! Let us help you create memories that last a lifetime.
