During my pregnancies, I experienced significant weight gain—far beyond what is medically recommended. While my non-pregnant self is typically fit, my pregnant self swelled considerably, gaining nearly 70 pounds with each of my three children born within four years. I often dreaded my OB appointments, acutely aware that gaining around 10 pounds monthly would lead to lectures from my healthcare providers. As my weight fluctuated, so too did my emotions and insecurities about my body.
I longed to embrace the beauty of pregnancy, to enjoy those fleeting moments of sharing my body with a new life. However, as my body expanded and my skin stretched, my self-esteem diminished. I became increasingly self-conscious, particularly when a camera appeared.
Despite the heartfelt encouragement from my partner, I avoided being photographed, shunning the camera even when my husband wanted to capture those moments. The mere thought of being tagged in a photo on social media filled me with dread, and I chose to stay out of the frame.
I still remember the well-meaning advice from a wise friend who said, “Make sure to take pictures of yourself during your pregnancy; your children will cherish them one day.” Unfortunately, I dismissed her suggestion, thinking it was just another piece of unsolicited advice.
Looking back now, with my youngest at two and a half years old and my childbearing days seemingly behind me, I realize the importance of that advice. Perhaps it’s the difficulty of closing the chapter on having more children, or the recognition that I perceive other pregnant women as radiant and wish I could have seen myself in the same light. If given the chance, I would have taken more photos of myself during pregnancy, possibly even indulging in one of those chic maternity photo shoots. I would not allow my vanity to prevent me from documenting this significant period in my life.
Fortunately, my husband, who knows me better than I sometimes know myself, captured a candid image of me at nine months pregnant with our second child while we were waiting for the carousel. That photo now sits framed on his desk, and when I look at it, I see not the extra weight or water retention, but rather an overwhelming sense of love.
So, if I may offer you some unsolicited pregnancy advice, please don’t shy away from the camera. Take photos of your pregnant self, even during times of insecurity and self-doubt. One day, those images will serve as your cherished memories of this extraordinary time.
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In summary, capturing your pregnant moments can create lasting memories that go beyond fleeting feelings of insecurity. Embrace the journey, and don’t hesitate to document it.
Keyphrase: pregnancy photography advice
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