Although not every expectant mama chooses to shell out cash for a professional maternity photo session [1], as with every other season of life, a pregnancy is something you need to document, even if just casually. When your babies are grown and you're thinking back on those nine brutal months your feet were swollen, these snaps will remind you that your heart was, too.
From weekly progress photos [2] for the ambitious to easy-to-take selfies, these are the photos you NEED to take during your pregnancy to file away for later. (We promise you'll thank us then.)
Older Siblings Photo
Whether you announce your pregnancy with a kid count-off or not, one of these photos of the older siblings with your bump is too cute to pass up.
An Ultrasound Photo
Not much is done with ultrasounds after baby comes, so take a sweet photo of yourself with the printout instead.
A Full Family Photo
A photo of the whole family before the new addition comes is a must!
Pregnancy-Themed Apparel Photo
Whether it's a bathing suit or a funny tee, pregnancy-themed apparel could and should be photographed at some point during its short wardrobe shelf life.
Weekly Progress Updates
Keep track of the good, the bad, and the ugly along with way with weekly pregnancy updates.
Pregnancy Cravings Photo
Document what you were craving with a few snaps featuring your favorite pregnancy foods.
Silhouette Photo
There's nothing more gorgeous than a profile-view silhouette.
Belly Cradling Photo
The two-hand belly hold — a classic!
Nursery Photo
The only thing missing from this beautiful room is the baby!
Fruit/Veggie-to-Baby Size Comparison Photo
What did you look like when you baby was the size of a spaghetti squash? Take a photo, and you'll remember forever!
A Profile-View Photo
There's nothing better than a photo of a bump defying gravity from the side!
Bump Rest
Using your bump as a plate/table/cup holder is a given; photographing it is a must, obviously.
Heart on the Belly Photo
There's little sweeter than an expectant mama making a heart with her hands around her belly.
Bare Belly Photo
Bare all for this classic photo!
Labor Selfie
The last photo before baby comes!