I know, I know–beeelieve me I know–the moment your belly pops you become an automatic advice-target. Everybody has a pearl of wisdom to share with you, most of it unsolicited and nearly all of it utterly obnoxious by your third trimester. So, I realize I am wading in troubled waters even as I make this truly worthwhile suggestion: get your bump photographed!

Why? Most obviously, it’s an opportunity to capture this rare moment in your life. Although it certainly doesn’t feel like it nine months in, you won’t be pregnant forever and your body is accomplishing some pretty amazing feats. How wonderful will it be to share pictures of this magical time with your grown up baby someday?

Perhaps less obviously, you should schedule a maternity photo shoot because you will feel so amazing about yourself during and after. As you are so craftily growing another human being, your body is probably also sprouting random hairs, swelling, and stretching in ways you never deemed humanly possible. Simply put: you’re probably not feeling very awesome about yourself these days. Enter a talented photographer, a beautiful setting, some modern technology and voila–you’ve transformed into an earth-mother-goddess! Include your husband in on the action and now you’ve had an amazing bonding experience and he has a newfound appreciation for your rotund physique.

Convinced? If so, here are a few tips…I knew you were just craving some more advice, right?

1. Timing: our photographer suggested between 32-36 weeks. We hit it right in the middle at 34. While you might be tempted to go earlier, like during that second trimester honeymoon period, later really is better because the full bounty of your bump is much more evident–case in point:

2. Attire: go simple, go classic. These pictures will likely be an investment and they are, perhaps, capturing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, avoid trendy get-ups that will make you shudder in ten years.

3. Make-up: Go neutral. Again, you’ll want to look back without embarrassment. So, just amplify your natural prego glow and go!

4. Finding a photographer: Do your research and find a photographer with a style that fits your personality. Some maternity photographers are all about the nearly nude pics. Others are more nature-based, while some specialize in urban shots. Once you find a style that appeals to you, talk to her or him and make sure your personalities mesh well. Do you feel comfortable baring your belly around this person? Does he/she make you feel good about yourself? These are make or break questions to ensure a glow-inducing experience.

5. Preparation: Ok, if you do three things for your pregnant self: get a mani/pedi, a haircut and/or color, and avoid direct sunlight/salty foods the day or two before–let’s not tempt the cankles and mask of pregnancy gods, ok?

Finally, share these pics with pride! Seriously, pass ‘em my way, I can’t get enough of prego pics these days.