Tips For Your Maternity Session

WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK

The best time to shoot your maternity session is 4-8 weeks before your due date, in the 32-36 week mark. During this time your belly will be nice and round, but we won’t be too close to your due date where you could go into labor.

IT’S KINDA LIKE POSING, BUT NOT REALLY.

Posing has become sort of a bad word in the photography industry recently. When most people think of posing, they think of stiff, awkward, school photos with our hands folded neatly under our chin. That’s why we prefer the word ‘directing’! We direct you into a series of natural actions and positions which have proven to flatter, slim, and engage you with the camera and your loved ones.

Not comfortable? No Worries

For some people, knowing what to do in front of the camera can be one of the most daunting parts of having their photos taken, however, understand that we spend a great deal of time coordinating organic sequences of poses. If you’re a natural and fall into positions on your own, then great! But we work really hard to come up with great direction that feel comfortable for you. We want you to feel relaxed throughout the shoot so don’t worry about what to do with your hands, we’ve got you covered!

Kids

Kids can be crazy and uncontrollable, we get it. If you know your munchkins are probably not going to stand there and smile, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. We will try our best to get the classic, full family smiling at the camera shots, but we will also get some lifestyle shots. By lifestyle, we mean we will give your kids something fun for them to do, that we know usually photographs well, and photograph them having fun. By giving them something to do, like looking at mom, jumping off (small) rocks, or tickling their brother, they have fun and you get great, candid shots.

PROPS

Sure! Why not? Consider including items that are sentimental or meaningful whether it be a piece of jewelry, a blanket that was moms, or a gift that was made special for baby. Baby shoes, socks, a onesie, an ultrasound picture, block letters of the baby’s name or a book are all great!

GO PRO

HAIR & MAKEUP

Professional hair and makeup are on the top of most of our clients’ checklists because it looks amazing on camera and removes the stress of getting ready on your own.  This is the time to treat yourself! Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream. Most of our clients feel like their professional makeup is “too much” at first since it’s more than you would wear on a normal day, but don’t worry! Good makeup artists know how to get it all just right for the camera.

FLATTERING YOUR FEATURES

In our experience, every woman regardless of her shape has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about, so recognizing what area that is in advance is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos.

Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms, so be on the lookout for an option with a longer length sleeve. You could also bring a cute jacket, blazer or cardigan along, too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera, so we recommend avoiding those whenever possible if your goal is a set of slimmer-looking arms.

Not sure what to wear?

We always recommend floor-length gowns or maxi dresses. These dresses create the best silhouettes to flatter your figure and really highlight your bump. Some companies you we recommend for your beautiful maternity dresses are Pink Blush offers different maternity dresses at various price points, styles, and colors! Their lace mesh overlay maternity maki dress and chiffon long sleeve pleated maternity maxi dress are a few favorite.

Not interested in adding a gown to your wardrobe? Cool companies like Mama Bump Rentals let you rent the same dresses pictured for a great price!

Tip: Go with sleeves, go long, go fitting, go light, bright and airy!

Xxx Catherine