Before your family grows by one, you may be looking for a great San Diego maternity photographer. If you search online, you will see an overwhelming number of results, with dozens of options here in San Diego. Because of this, it may be challenging to decide what to look for in a maternity photographer, and even which questions to ask. Not to worry :) As long time maternity photographers, we are here to help. We have heard every type of question under the sun, and we are prepared with answers! To help you make your own determination, here is a list of questions to ask your San Diego maternity photographer.

1) How much does a maternity photo session cost?

This is a question that you will likely want answered early on, so you know whether the photographer you are considering is within price range. The most talented and experienced photographers book up quickly, and tend to be in high demand. Others run Groupons and promos and try to outbid each other for the lowest price.

Keep in mind that you are paying for the talent of the photographer, and that not all maternity photographers are created equal. If the cost sounds too good to be true, there is probably a catch somewhere. Perhaps the maternity photographer is less experienced and is trying to build up a portfolio. Or they cut corners and provide only the base level service. Or they have spread themselves too thin and will be difficult to book and track down.

When evaluating photo session cost, think about the value you will receive, and not just the dollar amount. Is the photography studio a longstanding professional with an amazing reputation? Will they take good care of you as a client, not just during the shoot, but throughout your entire experience? You should get a sense of this from your very first conversation. If you like what you hear, and the cost is within budget, then you are likely in good hands.

For reference, our studio is in the mid to upper-mid range of San Diego maternity photographers. So if you are evaluating local photographers for your photo session, we are a good place to start, and ask all your questions related to pricing.

2) Where will my maternity photo session be held?

It is helpful to know the location of your photo shoot, so you can plan accordingly. We know that depending on your stage of pregnancy, you may not be as mobile as you typically are! Or you may be as adventurous as ever. Based on this, we will talk ahead of time, and plan your photo session location in advance.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and natural during your maternity shoot. If you feel great about being in an outdoor location, then ask your photographer to help plan the meeting place for your shoot. Examples of maternity session locations within San Diego include Balboa Park, Seaport Village, Carlsbad Flower Fields, and any number of beaches. In the eyes of a specialized photographer, an outdoor location will make a beautiful backdrop for your maternity session, and result in breathtaking environmental photos. If you feel more relaxed in a quiet setting, such as your home, be sure to ask if this is an option.

For our studio, we travel anywhere throughout San Diego County and beyond. So if you have a specific location in mind for your maternity shoot, just ask!

3) Does your studio specialize in maternity photography?

This is a very important question to ask. Maternity photography requires very specific skills and training, in addition to a creative eye. Even if someone has a background in portrait photography, it does not necessarily mean they are experienced or even comfortable as a maternity photographer. It takes time to get the nuances right, and to figure out how to carry out a maternity photo session that is relaxed and natural.

To determine your photography studio’s expertise with maternity photography, view their online portfolio or ask to see examples. You will get a better sense of their work if you are able to see the results of an entire session, in addition to a combined highlights gallery. If you aren’t seeing enough maternity photography represented in the work, or it isn’t resonating with you, then you may be better off with a more experienced studio.

4) What should I wear to my maternity photo shoot?

This is a great question for your San Diego maternity photographer! We want you to feel comfortable and at ease during your entire session, and we will make recommendations based on past experience. Specifically what to wear will depend on the environment of the shoot, the vision of the photographer, and your willingness to get creative! Based on conversations, your maternity photographer will be able to design a shoot around your unique personality, and one that reflects you as a mother-to-be.

 Next Steps for Your San Diego Maternity Photo Session.

In addition to these questions, you will of course have questions of your own. We would love to learn more about your maternity shoot goals, and to reserve a date on our calendar. As next steps, please contact our studio to talk with a maternity photography specialist. We look forward to talking with you soon.