Should I take my DA Photo while pregnant?

SFC Alehandra Philip — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 09:17:47 -0400

I am currently pregnant and not due until later on this year. I received a DMSM at my last command in Feb, however I was unable to retake my DA Photo because I PCSed then I found out I was pregnant. My question is should I take one in Maternity uniform now? or should I wait to take one after having this baby? My only issue with waiting is that I would be cutting it close to the MSG board in 2016. Any suggestions are welcomed

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2015 9:41 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 09:41:41 -0400

Your best bet may be to consult with your Chain of Command as well as the DA Photo group and get there higher educated opinion. I would personally suggest to wait only because you want to present the most Professional Military apperance. I hope this helps!

Response by TSgt Erica Andrade made Jun 25 at 2015 2:20 PM

TSgt Erica Andrade — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 14:20:25 -0400

Personally, I say yes. There is nothing wrong/unprofessional about being pregnant while in the military, so it shouldn't interfere with your ability to get a professional, military photo taken if and when you need it.

It would be really cool if you could get a copy for yourself too. :) Congratulations!

*Another option might be to take the photo now so you have it if you need it, then see if they'll let you retake it after you have the baby.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Jun 25 at 2015 8:57 PM

SGM Matthew Quick — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 20:57:27 -0400

I would not advise taking a new photo while pregnant (it's not that's it unprofessional, it's the 'human factor' of promotion boards)...rather write a letter to the president of the board explaining the award and 'personal' reasons for not wanting to take an official photo while pregnant.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 22 at 2018 11:04 PM

MSG John Duchesneau — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 23:04:45 -0500

Get one taken now and try to get an updated one after you have your baby. (Congratulations!) Although motherhood should be honored its not a force multiplier for a promotion board. You photo should reflect your best professional image and, even though pregnancy is a legitimate reason for being "plus sized" it won't go over well in a Army obsessed with physical fitness and appearance.