Your body while it’s carrying your baby to be can make for some amazing photos. If you’re an up and coming mother, you should consider taking a few portraits that capture the emotions you’re holding while you wait for your baby’s birth.

With that said, professional photos can be expensive. A skilled photographer has to have compensation, and rightfully so. It’s their job. If you’re budgeting for your parenthood, you may not want to spend too much on photos. Luckily, there are ways you can take some beautiful photos on a budget. Here’s how.

Negotiate

Have you found a great photographer whose style matches what you’re looking for, but their prices are too high? You may feel tempted to back down and try someone else. However, before you do that, talk to them. They may be willing to cut you a deal, a payment plan (more on that later,) or recommend a cheaper photographer. It doesn’t hurt to inquire about the services. Just remember that some photographer’s prices are firm. You can check out FamilyHype.com for more information on this as well.

Seek an Amateur Photographer

Photography is a profession that has a low barrier of entry because of how cheap cameras are nowadays. Chances are, you can find an aspiring photographer in your area with a DSLR and a passion for shooting. Ask around. You may find someone with some skills, but perhaps not all the equipment a professional has.

With that said, the photographer should have somewhat of a portfolio. Even an amateur has probably shot a few people in their day.

Also, pay your photographers. Even if they are willing to do it for free to build up their portfolio, a tip can show them that you care about their work and can appreciate what they do.

Be Simple

When you’re taking photos, you may feel the temptation to be a little extra. Props, extravagant locations, a huge set like you’re shooting in a movie. These can be fun, but let’s face it, you’re on a budget. Sometimes, it’s okay to be simple. Shooting at a creek, a backyard, a field, or any other location that’s easy to access may be for the better. It’s more affordable, and simplicity is the best solution at times.

Edit Later

When it comes to photos, digital retouching and editing can be an extra cost that breaks the bank. It’s possible to ask for retouching later on the road. You can edit them anytime, but your pregnancy only lasts for so long.

Ask for a Payment Plan

If you do want to hire a more expensive photographer, perhaps you can offer a payment plan. It may be easier to pay off your photos over time than it is to pay all at once. Some photographers may be more empathetic towards expectant parents, as long as you can make your payments on time.

Try a Phone

This may sound a little too low budget, but honestly, you can get some beautiful photos out of phones nowadays. Newer phones like the Galaxy S9 have some DSLR options, and there are filters to correct any blemishes and make them look beautiful. You can make your photos rich in color, make them beautiful black and white, and much more. While they are not a complete substitute for a professional camera, it’s a worthier replacement as time marches on. We say that it may be worth a shot if your budget is extremely tight.

Look for Discounts

Finally, there is always a chance a photographer is having a discount or a deal. For example, they may offer so much off if you recommend them to someone else, or they may have coupons. Some photographers may charge less if you sign up for an email newsletter. Discounts and deals are one of the biggest ways a business can reel in new clients, and one near you may be offering. Try it and see what you can find.

Striking that balance between a beautiful maternity photo and a photographer that doesn’t charge much can be a challenge. However, if you play it smart, you may a photographer that’s suitable for what you need. Talk to a few and see what you can find.

** This was a contributed post.

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