The ultimate goal for your session is to create beautiful images that you will look back on and love. I will devote hours to preparing and designing your session to ensure that everything flows smoothly and you are comfortable.
This prep guide is one of the important steps that I have created to ensure that your images not only capture you in this special moment, but tell your story.
preparing for your session
I'm here to capture this magical chapter, so you can hold onto it for a lifetime.
What to wear?
This is one of the most frequently answered questions. I offer a client closet that contains an assortment of maternity gowns for all shapes and sizes.
If you choose to use the client closet that I offer, I ask that you send me your pre-pregnancy size to ensure that the gowns selected will be a perfect fit.
If you have chosen to wear something that you have purchased, or something from your closet, please send me an image so I can prepare a set that will coordinate with the color and style.
You can rely on me to style your session based on the colors or styles that you choose.
SESSION DAY:
If you choose to use the client closet that I offer, I ask that you send me your pre-pregnancy size to ensure that the gowns selected will be a perfect fit.
If you have chosen to wear something that you have purchased, or something from your closet, please send me an image so I can prepare a set that will coordinate with the color and style.
You can rely on me to style your session based on the colors or styles that you choose.
SESSION DAY:
- You will need nude colored underwear and a strapless bra (nude or black is preferred).
- Wear loose clothing to the studio. Fitted clothing (high wasted pants especially) can create lines and marks on your bump.
Pamper Yourself
Your maternity session is the perfect excuse to get glammed up so you look and feel your best for your session.
A fresh manicure and pedicure, professional hair and makeup (if you'd like), and stepping into a stunning gown will give you a confidence boost that will be radiated throughout your photos.
A fresh manicure and pedicure, professional hair and makeup (if you'd like), and stepping into a stunning gown will give you a confidence boost that will be radiated throughout your photos.
- Pedi/Mani Tips: Stick with neutral colors or earth tones. Avoid bright colors so to not distract from that beautiful bump.
- Hair: Something as simple as an all-over wave curl is perfect for these sessions. Avoid a full up-do. We will incorporate a fan, so we want those beautiful locks to move and flow.
- Make-up: Eyelashes are one easy way to bring that next-level look to your images. If you do invest in a professional makeup application, focusing on the eyes as well as the contour lines will bring your facial features front and center.
- Skin: Your legs and beautiful bump may show depending on the gowns you wear. Lotion and body oils are helpful in making sure your skin looks its best for session day.
Rest, Eat, Hydrate!
In the days leading up to your Maternity session, ensure that you are getting enough sleep (as much as that growing belly will allow).
Staying hydrated is always a good idea, especially during pregnancy. Drinking more water will help you feel refreshed and energized. It can also minimize any dark circles and give your skin that radiant glow!
Make sure you are snacking and eating properly before your session also. Sometimes being on your feet for longer periods that usual can burn up energy faster than you're used to. I will frequently ask if you are doing ok, and we will take breaks if needed. You are welcome to bring snacks with you also as an energy boost if needed. Avoid anything that will stain your teeth or lips.
Staying hydrated is always a good idea, especially during pregnancy. Drinking more water will help you feel refreshed and energized. It can also minimize any dark circles and give your skin that radiant glow!
Make sure you are snacking and eating properly before your session also. Sometimes being on your feet for longer periods that usual can burn up energy faster than you're used to. I will frequently ask if you are doing ok, and we will take breaks if needed. You are welcome to bring snacks with you also as an energy boost if needed. Avoid anything that will stain your teeth or lips.
Spouses & Family: What to Wear
If you're planning to include your spouse or family in your session, we will style them according to the color palette you have chosen.
Spouses:
Children:
GIRLS
If you need additional help with your wardrobe, I'm always happy to help.
You can also visit my Family Style Guide for additional tips as well as a great line of clothing boutiques.
Spouses:
- Black or White dress shirt (or bring both!)
- NO large graphics or logos. We want focus on your connection with this sweet little one.
- NO T-shirts
- Dress Pants (preferred). Dark jeans are ok as long as they are not stained or ripped.
- Shoes: Black or dark colored dress/casual shoes. Loafers or Hey Dudes work great. We try to cover dad's feet, but it's not always possible.
- Please do not wear the session shoes to the studio. Only clean shoes are allowed on the backdrops.
GIRLS
- Light or neutral colored dresses, rompers, etc.
- Keep hair styles simple using light or neutral colored accessories.
- Khaki pants or shorts. Dress pants or dark jeans
- Light or neutral colored dress shirt or sweater. T-shirts are ok providing that they do not contain any large graphics or logos.
If you need additional help with your wardrobe, I'm always happy to help.
You can also visit my Family Style Guide for additional tips as well as a great line of clothing boutiques.
Your Comfort and Safety
As I've mentioned earlier, the safety of you and your little one are my top priority.
If you have high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or any other pregnancy related condition, please communicate that with me so I can pay extra close attention to you and any symptoms that come from those things.
Hydration is key, and with hydration and added baby weight on your bladder, frequent bathroom trips are common. For your session, we go at your pace, so don't hesitate to let me know if you need a break now and then.
COMMUNICATION between you and I will be super important. If at any time during your session you are feeling uncomfortable, get too hot, too tired, or simply need to sit down for awhile, please let me know.
If you have high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or any other pregnancy related condition, please communicate that with me so I can pay extra close attention to you and any symptoms that come from those things.
Hydration is key, and with hydration and added baby weight on your bladder, frequent bathroom trips are common. For your session, we go at your pace, so don't hesitate to let me know if you need a break now and then.
COMMUNICATION between you and I will be super important. If at any time during your session you are feeling uncomfortable, get too hot, too tired, or simply need to sit down for awhile, please let me know.
What to Bring: Your Packing Guide
Here are my suggestions for a relaxing and seamless Maternity Session:
If you forget something don't stress over it. I promise that your gallery will still turn out beautiful!
- Nude or black underwear and strapless bra. You're welcome to wear them to the studio, or simply change into them when you're hear. If you have both, bring both!
- Any Dress or Outfit you are using from your closet
- Snacks (if you feel you'll need/want an extra pick me up)
- Water bottle
If you forget something don't stress over it. I promise that your gallery will still turn out beautiful!
Wear your comfiest clothes to the studio, and get EXCITED about this incredible session!
I will guide you through everything. Not comfortable with a pose? That's ok! Your safety and comfort is number one priority, and I want this to be an enjoyable experience for you.
Embrace this special time, and let your joy and excitement shine through in your images.
