Maternity Prep Guide
For outdoor and studio maternity photoshoots
Congratulations and thank you...
Firstly, congratulations on your pregnancy and thank you for choosing me to photograph a very special time in your life. I'm sure you have a to-do list that's as long as your arm before your baby arrives, but I believe that a maternity photoshoot allows you to capture the beauty and all the love that you will be feeling in these last few weeks of your pregnancy.
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If you've not had a maternity photoshoot before you may be feeling a little nervous and not sure what to expect. So I've put together a few hints and tips below to calm those nerves and help you prepare.
When should I book my maternity photoshoot?
The best time to book your maternity photoshoot is after your 20 week scan to secure your preferred date. I only take on a limited number of bookings per month to allow for any reschuduals needed. Your photoshoot is best to be taken when you have a very visible bump, so any time between 32 to 37 weeks is best.
What happens if the weather is bad?
As your photoshoot will be taking place outdoors the biggest problem can be the weather. It is possible we may need to reschedule if it looks like the weather won't be on our side. I know this can be disappointing (it is for me too!) But I only do this for your safety and if I feel we won't get the get the best photos because of the weather conditions.
What to wear
What should I wear to my photoshoot?
It is really important to consider what to wear for your maternity photoshoot to get the best out of your photographs. I always suggest neutral colours for yourself (and partner and children if taking part). So think whites, creams, greys, greens etc, but preferably lighter colours like whites and creams to really make you and your growing bump the main focus of the photoshoot. No visible branded logos or slogans, and try and stay away from black clothing.
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I do have some dresses that can be worn on the day. Please let me know your size if your would like to borrow one in advance.
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However please bring a few outfits along (or wear ready to start) to the shoot including:
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1: A neutral coloured tight fitting dress that shows off your bump.
2: You may bring a long black (covers your bum) vest top.
3: (If you are comfortable with showing a bit of skin) A pair of lighter coloured jeans that are NOT maternity, which can look nice with the zip and button unfastened.
4: A crop top and white shirt to go with the jeans above. (I do have a white shirt you can borrow).
5: Shoes: I prefer bare feet in maternity photos, however let me know if you would prefer to wear shoes.
Please note we may not have time to change into all of these outfits, but it's best to bring them all along to see which will work best.
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Underwear: Ladies please try wear nude coloured underwear particularly under white dresses. With a good supportive bra. Please make sure that the underwear you choose is not too tight! This is to ensure your underwear doesn't push into your skin creating visible bumps and indentations under the clothes you are wearing.
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Hair and make up: To get the best out of your maternity photographs take some time to pamper yourself and come with your hair and make up done ready for your shoot. It does not need to be professionally done, but some ladies do like to get it done professionally if they are not confident to do it themselves. I suggest going for a natural/neutral nail polish colour as we don't want the colour of your nails clashing with what you are wearing.
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For male partners: Please come wearing a neutral coloured ironed t-shirt or shirt with trousers or jeans and clean shoes. You can bring a second t-shirt to change into if you would like to. Please avoid logos and busy patterns.
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For female partners: Try to coordinate outfits to match what your partner will be wearing. (They don't have to completely match but just compliment each other) For example a white dress, jeans and a t-shirt etc.
Children: Children won't be having an outfit change during the shoot (unless they need to) So make sure they are wearing neutral coloured clothing, dresses, shorts, shoes or bare feet etc. For very young children it's wise to bring a change of clothes in case of accidents.
What should my family/partner wear?
What should I bring with me?
It is best to wear one of your chosen outfits to the photoshoot to save on changing times, and to bring along the rest of your outfits. Please bring along any water or snacks you might want as it's best to keep hydrated. Bring along any sentimental items (at your own risk) like a pregnancy scan or baby shoes, but keep these to 1 or 2 items only. And of course bring everything you would normally need for any children taking part.
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After your photoshoot it will take up to two weeks for your images to be professionally edited and once finished I will email you a link to view your gallery online. You can then choose and download your allocated amount of photos and buy any prints or extra photographs.
What happens after?
And lastly...
Please do not stress, I know that it's easier said than done and there is a lot of information to take in, but remember this is just a guide. It is fine if you do not do some of the tips in this guide. I will walk you through every pose and position and all you have to be is your beautiful natural self!
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I can't wait to meet you in person soon,
