Maternity Photography Guide
CONGRATULATION ON YOUR PREGNANCY!!! As you prepare for the arrival of the newest member of your family you probably have a to-do list of things you want to do before your baby arrives. I believe a mini maternity session should be on your bucket list because whether you are having your first baby, or you are adding a new member to your family, a maternity session allows you to capture the beauty and love that you are feeling in the final months of your pregnancy.
If you’ve never had a maternity session before, you may not know how to prepare or what to expect. I have put together a useful guide of everything you need to know in order to make the most of your session and get images you will love and cherish forever:
WHEN IS THE BEST TO SCHEDULE MY MATERNITY SESSION?
The best time to book your maternity session is after your 20 weeks scan, please contact me to secure your preferred session date. Your maternity photoshoot session will be scheduled to take place between week 28 and week 35 of your pregnancy as it is ideal to have a visible bump in your photos.
POSES AND STYLING
Every photographer is different and every mom-to-be is different too. It is important to let me know what you’re comfortable with before your session so that we can better plan out what shots and poses to do.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE SESSION?
I absolutely love minimalistic maternity portraits. Sometimes a plain black crop top with black pants, a body suit, or jeans is all you need to achieve that sophisticated VOGUE look.
I have a selection of maternity gowns, floaty fabrics, and bodysuits for your photoshoot, but it is always a great idea to bring your favourite dress or outfit along.
Please bring the following to your session (please don't stress if you don't have everything on the list below):
Wear plain underwear in nude, black, and white. (plain bra and panties)
A pair of nude or white thongs.
Plain strapless bra - Nude will work best, avoid lace.
Any of your own outfits or underwear that you wish to wear for your session.
*Please make sure that the underwear you choose is not too tight!* This is to ensure your underwear does not cut into your skin creating visible bumps and indentations under the dresses you are wearing.
Dads can wear blue jeans and a plain top, polo or t-shirt (white or black are recommended) or topless with just jeans is very nice too. Avoid shirts, they can be a bit too formal!
IS IT POSSIBLE FOR MY PARTNER TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SESSION? AND WHAT ABOUT MY DOG?
Of course! Your partner is welcome to come and be included in your mini maternity photoshoot.
My mini maternity sessions do not include other children. I kindly ask that childcare arrangements are made if you have small children.
Feel free to bring a friend along for support if your partner can not join you.
Dogs are welcome to come for the part that they are involved with, I ask that they can follow instructions such as sit, etc. Clients bring treats for this. Once we are done with their photographs they can be comfy in your own car as there is so much photography equipment for them at the studio, cables, etc.
HAIR AND MAKEUP
If you really want to look your best during your pregnancy photoshoot, getting your makeup done professionally would be the best way to go. A professional makeup artist will know how to do your makeup so it shows best in photos. Ideally, a "soft glam" style of makeup would be best for your pregnancy photoshoot. Continue the pampering with a visit to your hairstylist and get your hair professionally done for your pregnancy photoshoot. If you’re not sure how to have your hair done, think about what you want your photos to look like. If you’re going for a more casual look, a loose and simple hairstyle may be the perfect option. But if you want your images to look a little more formal, don’t be afraid to go for an elegant look.
NAILS
If you haven't been able to get your nails done during your pregnancy then this is a good opportunity to get a fresh manicure and pedicure done as your fingernails and toenails will be on show for the duration of your session. I will suggest you go for a neutral/natural colour of nail polish as we don't want the colour of your nails clashing with any of your outfits. Avoid very long nails or dark colours.
PREPARATION ON THE DAY OF YOUR PHOTOSHOOT SESSION
On the day of your session, it is very important that you stay hydrated and don't skip any meals. Staying hydrated and eating will help keep your energy up throughout your maternity photoshoot session.
SKINCARE
A couple of hours before your session, please take time to apply some non-greasy lotion to reduce any dry spots on your skin. Be sure to avoid using any artificial tanners or spray tans as they may give your skin an unnatural orange look. Studio flash makes artificial tan very yellow and patchy.
WHERE IS MY STUDIO
My studio is based in 26 Brunel Court, Quedgeley, Gloucester, GL2 2AL
07498721531.
There is normally ample parking outside.
LASTLY, PLEASE DON'T STRESS
It’s easier said than done, but do your best to relax and not worry about your session. I will walk you through every pose and position, and also be on hand to be your hype woman for the day :-) . All you have to do is be your natural and your beautiful self!
HOW DO I BOOK MY SESSION?
You will need to arrange your session directly with us, sessions are booked according to our diary availability. Please send us an enquiry form and we will get back to you with some options. Please include your estimated due date. Otherwise, feel free to email or call us to discuss your session and get you booked into our diary.
To book:
Read, complete and digitally sign my Photography Agreement sent to you via email
Pay your £50 booking fee to secure your session date.
The outstanding balance of your session is due 24 hours before the date of your photoshoot.
