How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
If you’re pregnant in the summer, like I was when I carried my daughter Lizzie, and are struggling to cope with the current warm weather conditions, this week’s blog is for you! I’m sharing my top tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer, which I hope you’ll find useful.
The challenge of a summer pregnancy
In the final months of pregnancy, you are likely to be a vision of health. And probably gets lots of compliments from friends and family about your pregnancy ‘glow’. But inside, you may be feeling far from attractive!
I know this from experience. And it’s what my pregnant clients tell me when they come to me for their maternity photoshoots. In the final weeks of their pregnancies, women like you often feel heavy, tired and exhausted. And warmer conditions, in the summer months, only make it even more difficult to remain comfortable. Knowing how to stay cool when pregnant is a common challenge!
You’re naturally hotter than normal when you’re pregnant anyway thanks to all the extra blood circulating around your system. And you’re carrying the extra weight of a growing baby which is undeniably tough work!
Yep, being pregnant in the summer months can be tough. So I do feel for you pregnant ladies!
How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
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Avoid being in the direct sunlight
Sit under a parasol if out in the garden or on the beach. Sitting in the shade will help you to keep your cool.
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Venture outside only in the mornings or late afternoons
Avoid the 11am-3pm window when the sun is at its strongest if you can. I love venturing out with my maternity clients in the early evening to capture portraits in the ‘golden hours’ before sunset (see some examples in my maternity gallery here) – this is a great time of the day to be outdoors. When indoors, open the windows and close the curtains to prevent the rooms from getting too warm.
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Listen to your body
When in the sun, keep strenuous activities to a minimum. Light walking is fine but listen to your body. If you need to, stop and rest regularly. Put your feet up whenever you can to minimise swelling, and take short naps if you get the opportunity.
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Use fans or water sprays to keep cool
These are really handy since they fit in your handbag and can be used wherever you are – whether in the car, at home or out and about. Use in conjunction with the air conditioning system in your car if you’re out on the road or find yourself stuck in traffic. I know that lots of mums-to-be are at work, so fingers crossed you have air con in the office! If not, ask for a fan.
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Take a dip!
Better still, dip your feet in a paddling pool or the sea. Or run your wrists under a cold tap for instant refreshment! I had terribly swollen feet in the last couple of months of pregnancy and the only thing that fitted on my feet were flipflops. I worked in an office at the time so no heels for me!
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Stay hydrated
You need to drink more water when pregnant anyway, but this is even more important when it’s hot outside. Aim to drink a glass of water every hour to keep your fluid levels topped up and your body temperature regulated. Not drinking enough water isn’t good for you or the baby, and can leave you feeling dizzy and tired. Get refreshment from water-based ice lollies and get creative with fresh smoothies and alcohol-free ‘mocktails’, if you are bored of drinking water!
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Wear light cotton layers
I’d recommend light-coloured cotton or linen fabrics and a large-rimmed hat in the sun. Maxi dresses cover a multitude of sins and look stylish at the same time. And if you are prepared to strip down to a maternity swimming costume, just keep covered up with a sarong to minimise the amount of skin that is exposed to the direct sunlight.
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Keep the suncream topped up
This goes without saying but always use a suncream that is at least SPF15. And don’t miss those easy-to-forget areas such as the tops of your feet, ears and the backs of your hands.
9. Lay down and put your feet up!
Honestly, this is my top tip. If all of the above don’t help, simply try to rest. Nesting is overrated! You need to rest to prepare for the big event, so stop cleaning the house and put your feet up!
Those are my tips on how to stay cool when pregnant. What are yours?
Please do share your best tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer in the comments below.
And if you’re in the final stages of your pregnancy and would like to consider a maternity photoshoot with me – either in my photography studio or on-location at either your favourite park, woodland or on the beach, contact me today to book.
I’m available on 07749 270431 or please complete this contact form.
Karen x
What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot in Dorset with Karen Wiltshire Photography
What can you expect from a pregnancy photoshoot with me? Well, if you’re a mum-to-be considering a maternity session, keep reading to find out.
I'm an award-winning Dorset maternity photographer and have worked with many lovely expecting ladies over the years.
Will you choose an indoor or outdoor maternity photoshoot?
While I have a custom-designed photography studio in Poole and I love to do indoor, studio-based maternity sessions, I also adore going on location in and around Dorset with my maternity clients.
The type of pregnancy photoshoot you choose will likely be dictated by the time of year and the weather.
My outdoor maternity photoshoots are available almost all year round. It’s only in the winter that I generally don’t shoot maternity outdoors. I imagine you’d rather be in the warmth and comfort of the studio at that time of year!
Naturally, when the weather is good, my outdoor maternity sessions are very popular, and it’s clear why. Open space and a natural setting are lovely to have as a photoshoot backdrop.
Pregnancy photoshoot portraits: Examples through the seasons
To inspire you on what’s possible in the season that you’re expecting your baby, here’s an overview of what each season offers in terms of flora and fauna.
Spring pregnancy photoshoots
Everything outdoors starts to come alive from April onwards, so if you’re expecting your baby in the spring then an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot is possible among the bluebells, daffodils or delicate blossoms.
From May, colour flowers like azaleas and rhododendrons also start to bloom and the greenery fills out which looks wonderful in the photos.
Summer pregnancy photoshoots
Summer (hopefully) brings with it warmer weather and longer, lighter evenings. This is the time of year when I love to get out and about with maternity clients and their families either on the beach or in the local woodlands.
‘Golden hour’ in the early evenings is a great time for photos and, if we’re lucky, we can include the setting sun in the portraits.
Around May/June, wildflowers come into their own. I know of local poppy and rapeseed fields that we can visit. Slightly later, around June/July, we could seek out patches of long summer grasses.
Then, in August/September, sunflowers add some vibrant colour and drama to outdoor maternity portraits. Lavender is lovely in Summer too, although sadly there aren’t any lavender fields in Dorset. Since we have so much else to enjoy though, let’s not worry about that!
Related reading: How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
Autumn pregnancy photoshoots
Autumn is a beautiful time for outdoor photos too and is probably my favourite time of year to shoot outdoors actually.
The colours are gorgeous; fiery reds, burnt oranges and bright yellows. Leaves are falling and there’s a carpet of colour on the ground. The light is also soft and warm, and the temperature is generally still pleasant so you shouldn’t feel a chill either.
I know some lovely locations in and around Poole and Bournemouth where it’s stunning in autumn time, as shown in these examples.
If you’re expecting your baby in autumn, just imagine it! This could be you!
Winter pregnancy photoshoots
Unless we’re having a particularly mild winter, or you’re feeling brave (!), during the winter all maternity sessions are done in my photography studio in Broadstone, Poole.
Indoors, I use flattering studio lights and a variety of neutral printed backdrops to create flattering maternity portraits such as those shown here.
Other things you should know about my maternity portrait sessions
So, I hope that was useful as a guide to what you can expect from a pregnancy photoshoot throughout the seasons of the year.
If you opt for an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot, we can visit a location of your choice or I can suggest somewhere, and we can achieve a good range of photographs from just one location.
Oh, and in case you’re wondering, I can advise you on what to wear – it’s all part of the service. I can also provide a selection of beautiful maternity photoshoot dresses. You’re welcome to pick whichever one takes your fancy and borrow it for the duration of the shoot. These are luxury designer maternity gowns that will make you feel amazing and that look stunning on everyone!
Ready to book your outdoor pregnancy photoshoot?
I really enjoy maternity photoshoots, and just love to help excited mums-to-be in those final weeks of their pregnancy by creating beautiful portraits for them to treasure.
If you like the bump photos you see here and are expecting in the next few months, do get in touch to enquire or make a booking so that I can create the same for you!
International Caesarean Awareness month: A celebration of caesarean births
Since April is International Caesarean Awareness Month, I thought it was quite timely to share with you this portrait I’ve created recently of a mother with her newborn baby.
This image won the Judges award for March with the SWPP monthly competition so it came top out of 900 plus images entered, I was totally blown away!
This striking black and white portrait is part of a new collection of images that I’m creating as part of a personal project.
Another one in this new series is the black and white breastfeeding image that won me the title of ‘Newborn Photographer of the Year 2021’ with the Societies of Photographers just last month.
Postnatal pregnancy photography
In all my newborn sessions, I encourage parents – both together and individually – to be photographed with their new babies. I believe that these are important photos to capture and that they help to tell the story of your growing family.
As each family is unique, we discuss during the session what type of family portraits with your newborn you’d like.
Sometimes if there is a willing daddy, his shirt may come off and we create some lovely artistic portraits like this to emphasise the size difference between the dad and the baby. This is also lovely skin-to-skin time which is beneficial for the little one too.
Other times, breastfeeding mummies are happy to be photographed mid-feed, and this is how the award-winning breastfeeding portrait first came about.
One the day I took this caesarean portrait, this particular new mummy was happy to share the story of her caesarean birth with me and even felt comfortable enough to have her caesarean scar photographed.
It was brilliant to be able to capture this for her – I feel that it’s beautifully raw and I’m thrilled with the final result!
Celebrating caesarean births
When I shared this caesarean portrait online for the first time recently, I got an incredible reaction. Here are just some of the comments I received:
“Oh my gosh, I would have loved to have had a piccie like that…it truly captures the sacrifice us Mummies make to give life. This is incredible Karen! 😍”
“How beautiful is this photo, showing the transition to motherhood, holding this little being above our caesarean scar! There is such rawness and realness in this photo, like motherhood, a time of such big feelings and changes.” – Dr Rebbeca Moore
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below.
Your Caesarean Stories
Since the caesarean scar portrait sparked a lot of interest, I decided to ask a few former clients and my followers to share their own experiences of caesarean birth, and to share tips for new mums who are about to experience one for themselves.
Keep reading for their stories and tips. I hope you find them useful.
Mum 1 who has experienced four caesarean sections
“So my first c-section was an emergency after 30 hours of labour and then Finlay got his head stuck at 9cm dilated and we were whipped into theatre pretty fast! He was born weighing 9lb 5oz and after previously breaking my pelvis in a car accident it turned out I couldn’t dilate properly. I lost a lot of blood, I had a 4-unit blood transfusion and continued to bleed heavily for 20 weeks after my section. I had to take some serious iron supplements and suffered terribly with post-natal depression after his birth. I apparently nearly bled to death, it was very touch-and-go and I was in intensive care for 24 hours.
It took me 4 years to have the next baby, and that was a planned section at Dorchester Hospital. It wasn’t without complications, but the experience was far more positive than the first. Knowing your dates and times goes a long way to helping with the anxiety. With a planned section you’re also not tired from hours of labour and you eat properly in the run-up to it. I made sure I had kept up my fluid intake and taken pregnancy multi vitamins and iron in preparation for his birth. He was born at 36 weeks, I suffered enormously with low blood pressure and passed out a couple of times on the poor midwife helping me shower, but I went home quickly and recovered a lot better.
My 3rd and 4th sections were more fraught because although they were planned, I went into natural labour at 32 weeks (baby 3) and 28 weeks (baby 4) and had to have steroids and stay in bed right up until they were born at 38 weeks via section. The actual births were lovely, you walk down to the theatre, the radio is playing in the theatre, all the staff are calm and organised and it feels very relaxed.
The thing I was most shocked about is you do still bleed after birth even though they’ve cleared everything out. I totally recommend buying big cotton pants the next size up to accommodate your weird jelly belly and stomach dressings plus a maternity pad! Or even disposable knickers, but I found them way too uncomfortable. Be prepared to rest up way more than you want to after birth. After my hysterectomy, I wasn’t even allowed to lift a kettle for 8 weeks post-surgery, yet after a section, they don’t bat an eyelid about you lifting a baby up and carrying a car seat! Giving yourself time to heal is key to a healthy mind. Accept all the help people offer, it really is a short period of time and people want to help.”
Top tips for post caesarean section
Another mum has kindly shared her tips on how to cope after a C-section. In her own words…
- “Take it easy, listen to your body, and get as much rest as possible but keep moving! It sounds contradictory, but getting up from the sofa or wherever you are resting for a little walk to the kitchen or bathroom every hour or so will help with mobility in the first few days after surgery and whilst healing. It will also reduce the risk of blood clots post-surgery.
- Stand up as straight as possible from the get-go to avoid back problems and to help mobility as the scar heals.
- Get a 2nd, 3rd, 4th pair of hospital-grade compression stockings. As soon as you get fitted for those beauts in hospital get your OH on to amazon and order a few more pairs in the right size. You’ll be wearing them for 2 weeks + so you’ll need at least one on one in the wash.
- Use a pillow to hold tightly across your scar for when you need to cough, sneeze or god forbid someone has the audacity to make you laugh!
- Invest in huge black pants!!
- Drink peppermint tea for the post-surgery wind!
- Use a scar massage tool – check with your midwife/consultant as to when you can start using it post-surgery. Helps to soften the scar tissue and deeper adhesions.
- If you can afford it and feel comfortable with people touching your scar find a good postnatal/womens physio who offers scar massage – it really will help so much with the healing and avoid long-term complications with scar tissue/adhesions! Wish they would tell you more about this in the hospital!”
Caesarean awareness
She continues:
“I think that sometimes we can be our own worst enemies in the way that we criticise ourselves but like you say there is also that narrative out there about c-sections being the easy way out and that you haven’t really given birth. I was very lucky that I had such supportive friends and family around me who would try and lift my spirits when I was really struggling with the upset of the failed VBAC. But being given that little bit of control and the feeling like my body helped to birth my baby through the natural c-section allowed me to truly let go of all of, and to accept, what turned out to be my journey to motherhood.
In all honesty, I wouldn’t have the beautiful family that I have been blessed with if it wasn’t for the amazing teams that carry out c-sections and I’m so pleased that this can now be my takeaway from my births rather than this horrible sadness and disappointment in myself.”
Your baby, your story
I think I’ll end by saying a huge thanks to the mums who have contributed to this blog and share these brilliant words from Dr Rebbeca Moore:
“So often we are told the narrative that vaginal birth is the only birth, but of course, it’s not. Your birth story is yours. All birth stores need to be heard and seen. Birth like everything else in life is often messy, imperfect, and wonderful all mixed together. Caesareans can be intensely healing, slow and gentle, or perhaps more dramatic and rushed. Sometimes under a general anesthetic. But whatever the shape and form they are yours. Your story, and your baby. Your beginning.”
What is your experience of a caesarean birth?
If you feel like sharing your own story, please do in the comments below.
Karen
I’m an award-winning maternity photographer!
I’ve just got back to Dorset, from the annual Societies Convention in London, with an award for my maternity photography. Yep, I’m now officially an award-winning maternity photographer! To say I’m over the moon would be an understatement!
Every January, I go along to the Societies of Photographers’ event. As a member, it’s one of the key events in my diary every year.
I love the event because I get to meet up with photographers from across the world. And there’s the chance to attend training workshops with amazingly talented photographers and have your work professionally judged.
This year, I submitted a maternity portrait in the international print competition, and am thrilled to have been awarded a Merit.
Every year, competition is extremely tough. Entries are received from of thousands of photographers from across the UK and beyond. So, it’s an absolutely brilliant feeling to have received recognition in this highly competitive competition. The print was displayed in a top London hotel for the duration of the convention.
Award-winning maternity photographer
I chose to put this maternity portrait, of the lovely Ashley, forward for judging this time because I just loved everything about the image. The composition, the posing, the lighting – everything worked out perfectly, just how I had planned.
And, how stunning does she look? That bump?! Such a beautiful maternity photo for her to treasure.
The image was enhanced even further thanks to the help of my wonderful mentor Damian McGillicuddy and partner Lesley McGillicuddy. Their guidance and support, and invaluable expertise with the printing really made the portrait shine!
Award-winning maternity photography in Dorset and Hampshire
My studio and outdoor maternity sessions have always been extremely popular. But winning this award has given me really valuable encouragement to continue creating these beautiful mum-to-be portraits for my pregnant clients.
If you’re interested in booking a maternity session with an award-winning maternity photographer in Dorset, do get in touch. They are a great way to celebrate your pregnancy.
Even if you don’t feel it, you look absolutely gorgeous in those final weeks of your pregnancy. A professional hair and makeup session will add further wow factor or come as you are and have some natural maternity portraits taken.
Plus, I can make you look and feel even more amazing in my stunning range of designer maternity dresses. Or, we can keep it simple – just you and your beautiful bump!
Studio maternity session or outdoor maternity session – the choice is yours!
Maternity photoshoots are available all year round and I can tailor the session completely to your preferences.
You may have a favourite local location where you want to be photographed, and if so, fine! We can go out at any time of year, whether to the forest, the beach or anywhere else you have in mind across Dorset or Hampshire.
I love this beautiful image of Laine taken on location in January.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
Or you may have a particular colour scheme in mind? Perhaps you want a coloured dress to complement the décor of a room at home? Just let me know and I can create exactly what you’d like.
You deserve this time to take a moment out of your busy schedule just for you and your unborn baby, so book your maternity session with me, your local and award-winning maternity photographer today. ?
I can’t wait to hear from you!
Karen
Don’t forget Dad-to-be: Introducing couple’s maternity photoshoots
I’ve been busy doing lots of outdoor maternity sessions so far this year. But something new, that I have been doing more and more of recently, is couple’s maternity photos.
Yep, I’ve been getting the dads-to-be involved in some of my recent maternity sessions! And the families who have embraced this new idea are loving the portraits that I’ve created for them.
Maternity photography
Maternity photography traditionally focuses on the mum-to-be who is carrying the baby. It’s done in the final weeks before the birth (usually sometime between weeks 28-34), and is done as a way of celebrating the pregnancy.
Thanks to the gorgeous Mio Estillo dresses that I have available, and the optional extra of a bit of pampering and styling beforehand, a maternity session makes my ladies feel fabulous!
And importantly, the portrait creates a lasting memory of the pregnancy and can be hung pride of place on the walls at home as a permanent record of that special time.
Introducing couple’s maternity photos
But, if you know me and my work, you’ll know that I like to experiment and try out new things!
I thought to myself, why should a maternity photos session just be about the mum?
What about the dads too? Yes, the woman is carrying the baby, but it’s as much his baby as hers!
Getting pregnant and having a baby is an emotional journey that involves two people. And so now, I like to involve the dad-to-be as well, if they wish.
My couple’s maternity photoshoots capture both mum and dad (and any children or pets as well). Creating a portrait that celebrates the family unit and the emotion of the journey that they are experiencing together.
Relaxed photoshoots, natural portraits
Men can often be reluctant to get involved and to be photographed, but I make all my clients feel comfortable. My sessions are 100% relaxed and lots of fun.
Dads, I won’t ask you to look at the camera necessarily, which can make you feel awkward. I’m not after cheesy photos of you smiling at the camera.
No, my style of photography is to capture natural maternity photos that tell a story. To show the connection between the people in the photograph. It is done in a timeless style – like the examples I am showing here. The maternity photos don’t date and can be enjoyed for years and years to come.
Indoor and outdoor couple’s maternity photos
I take maternity, and couple’s maternity portraits, in my photography studio in Poole. Or, if you prefer, we can go outdoors. I can photograph you in locations such as local parks, on the beach or any other local place special to you as a couple.
If you are interested in my maternity photography, and the idea of getting your partner and children involved too, please contact me today to book one of my couple’s maternity photoshoots.
I’m available on 07749 270431 or email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or complete this contact form.
Karen x
Join me on an outdoor maternity photoshoot this autumn
Today on the blog, I wanted to share with you some examples of beautiful outdoor maternity photoshoot sessions I’ve taken recently while out on location.
Since the leaves are changing colour and falling to the ground now, it’s the perfect time to have an outdoor maternity photoshoot.
The gorgeous burnt oranges, browns and yellows are everywhere at the moment. And these wonderful autumn colours create a stunning backdrop for my photographs.
I’ve been loving the chance to create maternity portraits with an autumnal twist, as you’ll see!
On-location maternity photography in Dorset
As you’ll know if you’ve been following my work for a while, I love doing studio portraits. But I equally love getting outdoors with my camera.
My photographer friend Jacqui and I are always on the lookout for new locations although we find that the best places for autumnal colour are often local parks and woodlands. There are several places in and around Bournemouth and Poole, near to my photography studio here in Dorset, which never disappoint.
When scouting for a potential location, I specifically seek out places where there are plenty of leaves on the ground as this creates a lovely carpet of colour. And I look for trees we can incorporate into the shot as well.
For example, isn’t this one of Emma absolutely stunning? So serene and elegant – I absolutely love it.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
But I’m also keen to ensure there aren’t too many people around, so you don’t feel that you’re in front of an audience. My pregnant lady clients wearing luxurious dresses have been known to turn heads if there are people nearby!
New maternity gowns – perfect for autumn and winter
As well as being excited about the changing seasons, I’m just totally in love with my new range of maternity gowns.
Since it’s autumn (and winter will along before we know it), I’ve recently bought a new batch of maternity dresses to add to my ever-growing collection. I now have these stunning velvet dresses in a number of different colours and they look A-MA-ZING on!
They are super luxe dresses and are so flattering. They catch the light beautifully. Aren’t they fab?!
I’ve got them in a dusky pink and a rich deep blue so far. But because they come in a range of beautiful colours and look so fantastic on camera, I’m also toying with the idea of buying some more (I know, I know, but I just can’t resist!).
The gold and burnt orange ones are definitely on my wish list.
Book your autumnal outdoor maternity photoshoot today
So, if you’re in your final months of pregnancy, why not book yourself in for an outdoor maternity photoshoot with me?
You’ll have the chance to wear one of these stunning new dresses if you wanted. And you’ll get the chance to be photographed like these lovely ladies out and about among the beautiful autumn colours while it lasts.
Outdoor maternity photoshoots with the rest of the family
An outdoor maternity photoshoot in autumn is perfect if you’re after flattering pictures that capture you at this extra special time in your pregnancy. It’s a chance to take some much-needed time out from the last-minute preparations before your baby arrives. So, just treat yourself!
All my sessions are relaxed and enjoyable. So, whether you’re body-confident or feel a bit awkward carrying your bump around, I promise that a maternity photoshoot with me will be a fun experience.
And feel free to bring along other family members too – I encourage you to come with your partner, your other children (if you have them), and even your pets!
Get in touch as soon as possible if you’d like to book though as I only have limited slots available.
For more examples of my maternity portraiture, keep scrolling! Also, please visit my maternity and pregnancy website gallery.
Karen x
Putting Dorset on the map: Recent international photography award wins!
International photography award!
As well as keeping busy in my photography studio creating portraits for my clients, I like to enter photographic competitions every now and then to keep me on my toes.
Getting my photography assessed and graded is an important way for me to learn how to keep improving my portrait photography.
Of course, winning a photography award is always lovely (and I’ve won many awards in the past). But that’s honestly not what I expect when I enter.
Award-winning portrait photographer
So, imagine my surprise when I entered the RISE photography awards recently and came away with a Bronze award in the Newborn Photography category and three Silver awards; two in the Children’s Photography category and one in the Maternity Photography category.
Best of all, I also had an image shortlisted for the Final in the Newborn category. It was selected by the judges as one of the best top 20 images from a total of 1100 entries in its category! OMG!
I was completely bowled over when I heard the news and felt very proud of myself, that’s for sure!
International photography awards
The RISE Awards are huge in the portrait photography industry.
They were founded by Australian newborn photographer Kelly Brown, who’s the very best photographer in the newborn industry in my opinion. I had the pleasure of attending one of Kelly’s photography workshops a few years ago, which I wrote about on the blog.)
The RISE international photography award is a competition open to portrait photographers all over the world.
There were over 4000 entries in total by photographers across the nine categories; maternity photography, birth photography, newborn photography, baby photography, children photography, family photography, pet/animal photography, portrait, photography, and wedding photography.
Winning these international photography awards for my newborn, child and maternity portraits is a great personal achievement, and I hope gives you some reassurance that my work is of the highest quality.
Over the summer, I also won two Gold awards with the Societies of Photographers for my outdoor newborn portraits, so that was another highlight as well!
If you’d like to book a portrait session with me, get in touch as soon as possible to secure one of the last few slots I have available this year.
Karen x
Five things to do before baby arrives: Tips for mums-to-be
If you’re expecting a baby, huge congratulations! Having a baby is life-changing, wonderful and a thrilling adventure! I’m really excited for you!
So now, with the news of your pregnancy having been announced to friends and family, you may be wondering…what’s next? What should you do first?
Well, here’s a list of five things to do before baby arrives.
Hands up, I didn’t do all of these when I was pregnant. But with the benefit of hindsight, I should have done! I highly suggest that you do at least some of these while you have the chance.
As a mum of two myself, I know how quickly those nine months do go. Even if at several points in your pregnancy you’ll probably feel like you’ve been pregnant FOREVER, it really isn’t long. And you’ll have lots to organise before your baby is born.
I’d highly recommend that try to avoid getting so lost in the excitement that you forget to take some time out for yourself during your pregnancy! Decide now what would you like to do before baby arrives. And be sure to get it scheduled in your diary.
Things to do before having a baby
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Plan a Baby Moon
Without doubt your life will never be the same again once your baby has been born. Of course, I mean that in the best possible way. But it does mean that there won’t be much time for you and your partner initially.
Travelling across the country or to other corners of the world is unlikely to be at the top of your priority list with a baby in the family. So, plan a holiday or mini break.
Travel to a far-flung location or go on that city break that you’ve always wanted to. With a baby in tow, travel will be more complicated in the future. So, use the time you have now to tick off those travel destinations that have forever been on your wish list.
I recommend planning these ‘baby-moon’ trips for the first and second trimesters of your pregnancy rather than the third as you’ll probably be more comfortable and have a smaller baby bump to lug around.
You may also find that some airlines don’t let you travel close to your due date. Always check their policies before you book flights.
2. Treat yourself to a pampering session or spa break
Of course, you should ensure to eat well, drink plenty of water and rest regularly during your pregnancy. But you also could indulge in a spot of relaxation and pampering time too! After all, you’re growing a little person in there. You need to look after yourself.
A home pampering session could involve a relaxing soak in a hot bath, listening to your favourite music. Why not invest in some soft fluffy towels and luxury toiletries to enhance the experience, hey? Or you could enjoy a regular night in alone. Watching your favourite TV show or reading your favourite book or magazine uninterrupted is pure bliss!
Or, take it up a notch and enjoy a spa day with your partner or girlfriends. Spa days are a popular way to rejuvenate as you get to spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and come out with glowing skin and feeling like a chilled-out goddess!
A pregnancy massage could also really help with aches and pains in your back, ease sore muscles and reduce tension. Luckily, here in Dorset and neighbouring Hampshire, we have some amazing hotels with fantastic spa facilities such as Chewton Glen and Rhinefield House. Both highly recommended!
3. Book a maternity photoshoot
If maternity photography was popular around the time I was pregnant with my own children, I would have loved to have had some photos taken. And this is something that I hear from a lot of mums who come into my photography studio with their babies.
The thing is, unless you have another child, you may not ever get the chance again to capture your pregnancy in photographs. What a shame to potentially miss out on this opportunity!
Both you and your child will love to look back on photographs of your beautiful body in those final stages of your pregnancy, in years to come!
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
I recommend that if you would like me to capture your growing baby bump in photos, to book in as soon as possible after your 20-week scan when you know your expected due date. Do also book in for a newborn photoshoot at that time as well.
That way, we can confirm the slot in my diary, and you won’t run the risk of being too late to book. As your due day approaches, you’ll be glad you sorted it early as it’ll be one less thing to think about.
The beautiful maternity pictures I will create will make you look and feel fabulous. Did you know that I’m an award-winning maternity photographer?
I have a stunning collection of designer maternity gowns for you to choose from, or we can opt for simple photos – the session is completely bespoke to you.
Your maternity photoshoot can also be done in my studio here in Poole, near Bournemouth, Dorset. Or, we can venture outdoors to your favourite local location, whatever the season.
4. Host a Baby Shower
Baby showers are really popular these days as a way of celebrating your unborn baby, so I couldn’t leave this off my list of things to do before baby arrives, could I?
Friends and family of the mum-to-be get together to share gifts and well-wishes, and it’s a great excuse to have some quality time with your besties before your baby arrives.
Usually, a friend will organise a baby shower for you, sometimes as a surprise. But if you definitely would like one, be sure to let them know. A baby shower is a fun occasion which usually includes baby-themed games and party food, so will take some organising. Ideally, don’t hold it too close to your due date – babies can sometimes arrive weeks early!
5. Get lots of sleep if you can
A final suggestion in my list of things to do before baby arrives is to sleep! I know it’s easier said than done as having a big baby bump towards the end of your pregnancy can make sleep more difficult. But, once you are on your maternity leave especially, try to resist the urge to keep busy or clean the house!
The urge to ‘nest’ can become overwhelming in the final stages of your pregnancy but leave the housework if you can. Rest your body and take the chance now to get as much shut-eye as possible. Sleep in the daytime if you can and get early nights.
I hate to break it to you, but you won’t be getting much sleep in the initial days and weeks after your baby is born. Believe me, a tired, burnt-out new mum will find it so much harder when the little one arrives than a mum who’s rested, relaxed and in tip-top shape on the big day.
Which of these will you find time for?
I hope this list of things to do before baby arrives has been useful? Let me know which ones you hope to do in the comments section below.
Good luck with your pregnancy and I hope to see you in my photography studio soon! If you’re interested in booking in with me for maternity photos or newborn photos, please get in touch by completing this form.
Karen x
Beautiful bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire
It’s one of my favourite (and busiest) times of the year again – yippee! The beautiful bluebells have begun to rear their heads and so I’ll soon be kickstarting my bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire.
Related reading: Bluebell woods portraits: it’s finally time!
Why hire a professional photographer for a bluebell portrait session?
Bluebells are an absolute joy to photograph, although are tricky if you don’t know how.
If you’ve ever tried to take your own photos among the bluebell woods, you’ll have realised that it’s harder than you probably imagined!
It really is a fine art balancing the delicate colours of the bluebells with the darker colours of the surrounding trees and woodland, while getting your subject and the delicate bluebells in sharp focus.
Add in the fact that there are typically low light conditions in bluebell woods, and you can begin to see why, if you’re armed with only a smartphone camera and only a basic understanding of photography – you can struggle to achieve the images like mine.
Which is why so many families every year choose to hire me and book one of my now infamous bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset or Hampshire.
As an experienced professional photographer who is equally comfortable outdoors as I am working in my photography studio, I’m literally in my element photographing families among the outdoors during springtime.
The very best bluebells in Dorset and Hampshire
Another reason to hire me for bluebell portraits is that I seek out the very best patches of bluebells; usually well off the beaten track.
My friend Jacky and I are often on the scout for new outdoor locations and so far, this year we’ve already discovered some lovely patches of emerging bluebells across Dorset and Hampshire which I can’t wait to take my clients to.
Unfortunately, my favourite spots for bluebells in recent years have become more and more popular and the poor bluebells are getting trampled on by those who don’t realise just how delicate these pretty little flowers are.
Did you know that bluebells take up to seven years to grow back after they’ve been squashed?!
If you’re planning a visit with your little ones, please do remember how easy it is to damage the flowers. When you visit, please stick to the paths as much as possible and encourage your children to do the same.
Book your bluebell portrait session today!
My outdoor bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire are extremely popular every single year, and always sell-out quickly.
So, if you’re wanting some gorgeous maternity, child or family portraits among the pretty bluebells this spring, like the ones I’m showing here which were all taken on location last year, then be sure to get in touch with me ASAP to secure your slot.
Take a look at the newly revamped KW Photography studio | Poole, Dorset
I’m really excited to share the news that I have completed a major revamp of the KW Photography studio!
I started my portrait photography business almost seven years ago now, and I’ve always loved the space I had. But, for a while now, I’ve been considering changing things around a little. And this year I decided to go for it!
So, after a LOT of hard work over the past few weeks (although it feels like longer), finally, I’ve got a larger studio space – yippee!
A newly extended studio space
I’ve had my head down this past month or so getting the hard work done.
Even with a team of helpers, it proved to be a lot of work and more complex than I had anticipated (aren’t these things always?!).
But at least I didn’t need to extend. It was just a case of knocking down a partition to extend the overall space, and to re-home a lot of stuff that had been stashed away in what was the former storage area.
The new KW Photography studio can be seen in all it’s glory in this video
Three ways the new KW Photography studio is a game-changer
Having the extra space in the studio will dramatically change things for me as I go about my day-to-day work. I’m already feeling the benefit, as I’ve squeezed in a couple of sessions since it was all completed .
But it will also enhance and improve things for you, too.
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More streamlined, quicker sessions
My signature newborn sessions can take up to four hours to achieve a variety of images incorporating different setups, props and poses.
Before the extension, I had space for just one setup. Now I’ve got loads more space! I can have two or more newborn setups in place at any one time. Which means I can achieve the same photos in less time.
Rather than have to stop and change the backdrops, cushions and props during a session, I can simply transition over to the second setup and start taking photos. I think you’re going to love how much time this saves!
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A more comfortable experience
The larger space in the photography studio also means that I can offer you a more spacious, dedicated area to relax in while I photograph your little one(s).
As before, you’ll find that I have comfy chairs as well as refreshments on tap so that you can really get cosy and enjoy the experience, while I get to work. But the more open-plan layout now means there’s plenty of room to feed your baby, stretch your legs and room to stash your bags and other belongings.
More space and dedicated areas for all my photography equipment, props and child and maternity clothing mean that everything has a home now too. So, while this is mainly a benefit for me, you’ll also find the studio to be tidier than it’s ever been before!
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More inspiration for your own wall art
In the new studio, you’re also now able to view a larger selection of wall art.
Hung on the walls of the KW Photography studio are examples of the photo products you can buy from me after your session, once you have chosen your favourite images from the photoshoot.
Look out for the new circular birch orbs – these are proving really popular and are so different to anything you may have seen elsewhere before!
Most of my clients buy photo products from me along side the digital images.
Having your photos professionally printed and mounted on your walls at home is, I think, the best way to enjoy the photographs. With digital files on a USB, there is a risk that the images never see the light of day!
NEW! Private gallery viewing sessions
Which is why I’m also now offering private viewing sessions for clients who would like help with making their final image selections and wall art purchases.
I can consult you, based on my years of experience as a photographer and my 20+ years of experience in the professional print industry.
I can help you to make a decision about which images to have created into stunning wall art that will suit your home and space where you’re intending to hang the pictures.
If you’d like to book a private gallery viewing appointment – which would take place at my photography studio a couple of weeks after your photoshoot – we can agree a date and time for this when you visit for your session.
So, come and visit me in the new KW Photography studio!
If you’ve got a photoshoot booked in with me soon, you’re going to be among the first to see the new studio space – lucky you! I can’t wait to hear what you think.
If you haven’t but have been meaning to book in, do contact me today and secure your slot.
I’ve got a very busy diary in the next few months – Spring is always a notoriously busy time. As well as working in my new studio space, I’ll be starting my popular bluebell woods photoshoots very soon, so please book ASAP to avoid disappointment. I really hate having to turn people away!
You can either call me on 07749270431 or complete this contact form to make an enquiry.
