HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT MATERNITY PHOTO SESSION
Your Ultimate Guide to a Beautiful, Planned, Easy, Stress-Free Maternity Photo Session Experience.
Maternity photoshoot can be a transformative and uplifting experience that empowers women to fully embrace their pregnancy, feel confident, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Book a Maternity Photo Session?
Pregnancy is an incredible journey that deserves to be cherished forever. While some women may feel uncertain or hesitant about their changing bodies, a maternity photo session is an opportunity to celebrate and capture the beauty of this special moment.
How and Where to Start? Tips on Planning Maternity Session
Questions to Ask Your Photographer
Last Preparations Right Before the Session
How and Where to Start?
Tips on Planning Maternity Session
Planning a maternity photo session can be overwhelming, especially for first-time moms. But don't worry, with a little bit of preparation and guidance, your maternity photoshoot can become an enjoyable and memorable experience.
1. Plan Ahead
The key to a successful maternity photo session is planning ahead. It's important to book your session early. Ideally maternity sessions should take place between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy when you have a nice round bump. This will ensure that you are visibly pregnant and can showcase your beautiful baby bump. Keep in mind that every woman is different, and the right timing may vary depending on your body type and the number of babies you are carrying.
Consult with your photographer to decide on the ideal time for your shoot. It's also a good idea to schedule your session for a time when you have plenty of energy and are feeling well-rested.
2. Find the Right Photographer
When choosing a photographer, look for someone who specializes in maternity photography and has a portfolio that resonates(!) with your personal style. It's also important to choose someone who is present on their website and social media, showing their face and providing enough information about their specialty and skills. You would want to know your photographer before booking with them.
3. Pick the Right location: Studio, In-home or Outdoor
The location of your maternity photo session can make a significant difference in the final outcome. Think about the kind of setting that suits your personality and style. Do you prefer an outdoor shoot in a park, or would you rather have an indoor shoot in a studio with artistic lighting and background? You can choose between a studio or an outdoor location depending on the season. Outdoor locations offer a natural and scenic backdrop, while studio sessions allow for a more controlled and intimate environment. You could also choose to have your session in the comfort of your own home.
When selecting an outdoor location for your maternity session, consider places that are meaningful to you, such as a favourite park or city view.
The choice is yours, but make sure to discuss it with your photographer and ask for recommendations.
4. Plan Your Wardrobe
Choosing the right outfits for your maternity session is key to ensuring you look and feel your best. Look for the photographer's client closet gowns or ask for photographer's recommendations. If you choose your own outfits, consider flowy dresses, tight-fitting tops, and clothing that accentuates your baby bump. It's also a good idea to bring along a few outfit options and accessories to give yourself some variety.
You will also need to coordinate outfits of your partner and children, if you plan to have them in the photoshoot.
It may be very useful to browse Pinterest for looks and colour ideas and then consult your photographer on the ones you like the most. Consider the season and the location if for an outdoor photo shoot. Choose neutral colours, avoid prints, signs, or big logos, and avoid sport shoes or flip-flops unless they are covered with a long dress.
5. Get Your Hair and Makeup Done
Having your hair and makeup done professionally can help you feel confident and camera-ready. It's important to choose a natural look that enhances your features, rather than something too dramatic or outside your comfort zone.
Photographers often work with makeup artists, ensuring quality and professional work. In this case, they will provide recommendations or, if agreed, a trusted makeup artist will contact you to discuss the desired look.
6. Get Your Partner and Family Involved
Including your partner in the photo session can be a great way to capture the love and connection between the two of you. It's important to discuss your ideas and expectations with your partner before the shoot to ensure you're on the same page. You can also consider taking some family photos or sibling shots if you have older children.
7. Props and Accessories:
Props and accessories can add a fun and personal touch to your maternity photos. Consider bringing items that reflect your personality, hobbies, or the baby's gender. Some popular props include ultrasound photos, baby shoes, stuffed animals, and balloons.
8. Enjoy the Experience
Remember, the most important part of the maternity photo session is to enjoy the experience. Relax, have fun, and let the photographer guide you through the process. Don't worry about being perfect or posing a certain way, and don't be afraid to try different poses, be yourself, and show off your baby bump with pride. Remember, these photos are not just for you, but also for your baby to look back on and cherish for years to come.
Remember that collaborating with your photographer during the planning process will allow them to understand your vision and preferences for the photos. They can provide guidance on poses, outfits, and settings to help bring your ideas to life. Working together in this way will help ensure that your maternity photo session is a personalized and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Questions to Ask Your Photographer
Here at Picstoria Photography I include the complete information about my photo style, pricing and packages on my website. So my clients know what to expect, and they decide whether we are a good fit and they want to book me while browsing my portfolio galleries. Still there may be some specific questions that are not covered here, and you are encouraged to send them to me.
Below I've listed some common and important questions to consider asking your photographer when booking your session. This can help you get the most out of your experience.
What style of photography do you specialize in?
What is your experience with maternity photo shoots?
Do you have any suggestions for locations or settings for the photo shoot?
Can you provide guidance on outfits and styling?
How long will the photo shoot last?
What is included in your pricing package?
How many edited photos can I expect to receive?
How long will it take to receive the final edited photos?
In case of complications or concerns, will you be able to adjust the timing accordingly? Will it cost you any additional fees?
Can I bring props or other items to the photo shoot?
Can I choose any specific poses for the photo shoot?
Can I order prints or albums through you?
Do you offer any discounts or specials for booking maternity and newborn photo sessions together?
Can I bring my partner, family, or pets to the session?
What should I wear for the maternity photo session?
How do you handle bad weather or last-minute cancellations?
How and where will I change my outfits in case of an outdoor session?
Last preparations right before the session
To ensure that everything runs smoothly and that you feel comfortable and confident during the shoot, here are some tips on how to prepare right before the session:
Have a good night sleep. Being well-rested before your session can help you feel more relaxed and energized. Try to get a good night's sleep the night before.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water leading up to your session can help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Make sure to have a light snack before the shoot.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing that may leave marks on your skin.
If you have any props or accessories you'd like to include in the photos, such as ultrasound images, baby shoes, or a favorite blanket, be sure to bring them along.
Bring a bag with essentials like water, snacks, tissues, and any touch-up makeup or hair products you may need, and everything what was discussed to bring (jewelry, the right undergarments, comb, lipstick, hills/shoes).
Trust your photographer to guide you through the process and capture beautiful photos that you'll treasure for years to come.
