How to Prepare for your Maternity Photoshoot!

Congratulations on your pregnancy! 

As you prepare for your little one to enter the world and join your family, your to-do list is probably a mile long. Having a professional maternity photoshoot may seem like just another item to add to your list, but it can be a perfect time to remind you of the ability and beauty of your body during your pregnancy journey. 

You deserve to have this incredible moment in your life to be documented, to celebrate with your partner and family the joy of a new baby entering the world.

I have put together this handy guide to assist you to make the most of your maternity photoshoot and get images you will love.

WHEN TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION

At approximately 20 weeks, you will establish the sex of the baby, that's if you want to know. This is the ideal time to schedule your booking. Certain photographers are booked quite for in advance so it’s important to book as early as possible to make sure they are available.

PLAN TO BOOK IN THE THIRD TRIMESTER

The best time to take your photos is in your third trimester, between 28 and 32 weeks. At this point, your bump will be showing well and it will look great in photos. You will still want to be able to move around and pose comfortably. While you can do your maternity session later in your pregnancy, there’s a good chance you will have more trouble posing and standing for long periods of time.

TALK TO YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER ABOUT YOUR DESIRES

Every photographer is different and every mom-to-be is different as well. If there are specific images you would like, be sure to let your photographer know. Talk to your photographer about what images are important to you and whether you’re interested in doing partial or implied nudes. It’s important to let your photographer know what you’re comfortable with before your session so they can better plan out what shots and poses to do.

PAMPER YOURSELF

Your hands will appear in almost all of your images, so you want them looking good! Your maternity session is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself a little with a professional manicure.

HAVE YOUR HAIR DONE

Continue the pampering with a visit to your hair stylist. If you’re not sure how to have your hair done, think about what you want your photos to look like. If you are 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 dramatic with an elegant look. I can assist with putting you in touch with some amazing hair stylists.

CONSIDER GETTING YOUR MAKEUP DONE

You want to look your best and I highly recommend a professional makeup artist. They will know how to highlight your best features for photos. If you decide to do your makeup yourself, you want to go a little bolder with your makeup than you normally would to make sure your eyes and lips are well-defined in your images.

REST THE NIGHT BEFORE

It can be hard to have any decent sleep during pregnancy. Go to bed early and try to get a full night’s sleep. That way, you will be refreshed and relaxed at your session the next day.

STAY HYDRATED AND DON'T SKIP BREAKFAST

It’s critical to drink plenty of water both before and during your session. Hydrated skin will look fresh, and staying hydrated will help retain your energy throughout the shoot. Even if you may have a case of nerves about stepping in front of the camera, be sure to eat breakfast before your session. (yes I know it might be early, but you need to maintain your energy levels).

DECIDE WHO YOU WANT IN THE PHOTOS

Your family members are absolutely welcome at your maternity session, especially if you want to include your spouse or other children. Just keep in mind that extra people can be a distraction and can even make you feel less comfortable in front of the camera, so avoid bringing friends and extended family members along. It's important to let your photographer know about who will be participating in your photoshoot.

BRING ALONG SENTIMENTAL ITEMS

Anything special you want to include in your photos is a great addition. Whether that’s a family heirloom, your ultrasound, or even your own baby blanket or favorite childhood toy, these mementos can add special meaning and a personal touch to your images.

CHOOSE WHAT TO WEAR

Whether you want to keep it casual or wear a flowing maternity dress, take time before your session to choose your outfits and make sure they fit and look the way you want them to look. You should pick out clothing for any other family members who will taking part and make sure to choose outfits that coordinate and don’t clash with your own. 

There are a few companies that hire maternity outfits, if you need assistance, get in touch with your photographer.

KEEP YOUR COLOURS SIMPLE

You and your baby bump will be the primary focus of your images, so you don’t want to wear any bright colors or loud patterns that will distract. Instead, stick with neutral colors and pastel tones that will look great with any background and any skin tone.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT UNDERWEAR

Give some thought to your underwear and bra as well. For example, if you’re wearing a white dress, don’t wear dark underwear that will show through the fabric. If you plan on doing partially nude images, make sure to bring along lacy undergarments that will look good in your photos. I always recommend nude underwear and strapless bra.

PREPARE THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SESSION

The evening before your session, make sure to pack a bag with a light snack and drink plenty of water. 

USE NON-GREASY LOTION

The night before your session, 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.

DON'T WEAR ANYTHING WITH AN ELASTIC

While you should definitely dress in comfy clothes to go to your session location, be sure to take off any clothes with elastic bands at least an hour before your shoot. Elastic leaves marks on your skin, and your skin should look naturally smooth. Be sure to remove any hair ties or other tight bands from your wrists.

DON'T STRESS

It’s easier said than done, but do your best to relax and not worry about your session. Your photographer will walk you through every pose and position. All you have to do is be your natural, beautiful self!

CONSIDER BOOKING A NEW BORN PHOTOSHOOT

Once baby arrives, life gets busy. I remember when my son was born, it was crazy. We were new parents and not really sure what to expect. Time flew past and when we looked again, he was 3 months old.

The ideal time to have a newborn photoshoot is within the first two weeks. They are too precious at this time. They have little muscle memory and it is amazing how supple they are.

I wish you all the success with your pregnancy. 

If you would like to book your maternity or newborn photoshoot with me, please get in touch.

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