Maternity Session Tips

What To Expect: This session is a great way to document your pregnancy in beautiful way! Your session will be held at one location and will last approximately 60 minutes. Keep in mind that this session should be fun and breezy. Although I will certainly help pose and direct you, I will also capture the natural, candid moments as they come!

What To Wear: You can wear whatever you'd like and whatever you are the most comfortable in! However, I've listed a few tips below that are good things to keep in mind when taking photographs. Also, your outfit choices may vary based on the location and time of year. Some of my favorite places to find great maternity clothing for photo sessions are Stitch Fix, Pink Blush Maternity, Etsy, Isabella Oliver and Zulilly.

Winter/Outdoor: A good example for a winter outdoor session would include fitted jeans or leggings, a fitted sweater or t-shirt with a cozy knit cardigan and tall boots. Avoid white if your session will take place with a snowy, white background as you’ll easily blend into the background and we want you to stand out! Bright colors look beautiful on the snowy background, so choose your favorite color and you can’t go wrong!
Summer/Outdoor: A few examples for a summer outdoor session would include a fitted maxi dress, short dress with empire waist, or a long, flowy dress specifically designed for maternity sessions. You can find beautiful options on Etsy for these types of maternity gowns. Any color goes for summer sessions, just keep your style, skintone and hair color in mind and choose colors that you like and look best in. For example, if you have blue eyes, choosing a color like blue or green will really bring out the color in your eyes.
Studio: Both options above will work well in the studio, though often times studio sessions are selected so that sheer and flowy gowns and/or clothing that reveals the belly can be worn in a more private setting. Again, beautiful maternity gowns can be found on Etsy in just about any color!
Accessories: Don’t forget to bring a few accessories that are suitable for the look you are going for! Necklaces, scarves, earrings, etc.
Coordinate: If family members will be in photos with you, no need to make sure everyone is matching exactly! As long as your colors and layers are coordinating (meaning they are similar styles and shades) don't worry about matching patterns or dressing everyone the same. Just be yourself and be comfortable!
Patterns: Try to stay away from very busy patterns that take away from you and that sweet baby bump! We want you and your family to be the focus of your photos! Patterns like stripes, plaids and paisley’s can be really cute, just try not to go overboard on the prints.
Layer: Dress for the weather and LAYER! If your session is early in the morning, make sure to check the weather so you aren't shivering in your photos. Layering is a great way to add interest to your photos and if the kids get hot or cold they can put a sweater on or take a jacket off. Mom's and Dad's - you know best, so I'm sure you'll be more than prepared!
Examples: Check out a few examples of outfit ideas for maternity sessions below. You'll notice that there is a lot of layering happening. Whether it is a tight tee with a jacket, or a dress with a chunky necklace and skinny belt, layers and accessories add interest! All outfits and images courtesy of Pink Blush Maternity.

Hair and Makeup: If it is within your budget, consider adding hair and makeup services to your package. This will allow you to enjoy a little pampering before your session and it’s always fun to have someone else do your hair and makeup and give you a little boost of confidence knowing you look and feel amazing! If you prefer to do your hair and makeup on your own, opt for a bit more “glam” if you typically do not wear a lot of makeup or style your hair every day. I recommend keeping hair down unless it is pulled into a styled bun. Don’t get me wrong – my hair is in a pony tail 99% of my life, but for photos, choose a style that is pretty and put together.

What To Bring:

Props: Feel free to bring any props that you might like to incorporate into your photo shoot. Baby shoes, baby onesie, etc.
Undergarments: If you are switching outfits, don't forge to bring undergarments in the appropriate color for each outfit if needed!
Snacks/Water: I know this is a short session, but if you have children, you may want to bring a few snacks to munch on if the session falls during snack time!

What You Get: You will receive a link to a private online gallery where you will be able to download images (included in price) and purchase prints or other items if you’d like. You are of course welcome to print the photos and use them for personal use. I will be posting a sneak peek on my Facebook page as well, so you can get a glimpse of the photos a few days after (or maybe even sooner!) If you share on social media sites, I just ask that you give credit to me by including a link to my page if possible.