How to prepare for your Maternity Session!
First of all - CONGRATULATIONS! There is so much to prepare for when having a baby and the last thing you want is another list of things to do. So know if this feels overwhelming, just skip on ahead to number 8 - just showing up. You do not need the perfect outfit or backdrop - you just need to be you.
If you are one of those people who love crossing things off their list and want more guidance for how your session with me might look - this blog is for you.
Book early. Especially if you have a specific photographer you want to work with (oh hi). I recommend booking the session for you third trimester (28-32 weeks). Sessions require a $100 deposit to hold your date. The rest is due the day of.
What sort of vibe are you hoping for? Do you want to be naked in a tub or unbuttoned jeans and a bralette having a pillow fight with your partner. Or do you want a flowly boho look on a mountain top. It is helpful if you want to pick a few images from Pinterest or just communicating the look you imagine for your session. Of course what we create together will be unique to you.
Who is invited? This can be a session for just you. You and your partner if you have one. Or the whole family. It is totally up to you.
What to wear. This goes along somewhat with what vibe you are hoping for. If you are thinking outside I will always lean more towards a boho style maternity dress that is more flowy. I love neutral colors and accessories (sweaters, hats, jewelry). Speaking of neutrals - make sure that you give your undergarments a thought. You know - nude underwear, strapless bra, etc. Also be careful if you decide for the first time to put on self tanner! Feel free to bring an outfit change. A session lasts around 60 minutes (maybe more) and takes place an hour and a half before sunset.
This is the time to splurge! If you are thinking of getting a blow out or your makeup done or your nails done - this is the time to spoil yourself if you can. If you are the more au natural type - I love it. I want you to feel like you.
Self care in general. Drinking water, eating and sleeping are all obvious things you know to do during your pregnancy - but just try to carve out some extra time the day of and day before so you aren’t feeling exhausted at the time of the shoot. I like to shoot at golden hour - which can be 7:30pm-8:30pm in the summer. Or 3:30-4:00 in the winter.
Other things. Feel free to bring baby shoes, a blanket, anything you may want to incorporate. Not necessary of course but definitely an option.
Be you. The most important thing is to just show up! This is such a unique time of your life. And it’s important to capture the rawness. If pregnancy has been rough and you don’t feel good - there is no pressure to do anything you don’t want to. But we can still do a mini session - more moody at sunset.
