Maternity Session Tips
Congratulations!
Whether this is your first baby or you’re adding a sibling to your family, this is a special season in your life. The photos captured in a maternity sessions will help you hold on to the feelings of love you have for your baby now, before you’ve even met them, for years to come.
To ensure the best session possible, here are a few tips:
Maternity sessions are best booked between 32 and 36 weeks , when your bump is showing nicely but you’re still able to move comfortably. Plus, we want to make sure we don’t want to miss a little one who might be in a hurry to join us earth side!
Sessions can be indoor or outdoor or both!
Mothers to be are beautiful! Feel free to do all the little things that make you feel as beautiful as we know you are; hair, makeup and nails! Yes, your nails!
You’re probably wondering what to wear. The answer? Something that you’re comfortable in and makes you feel beautiful. Layers and textures photograph very well. Solid colours usually photograph best although minimal patterns can work. Avoid overly dressy clothes and logos or bold patterns.
Choose outfits that create a clear separation between breast and belly. Clingy, stretchy fitting clothes accentuate your new curves and a good supportive bra does wonders. Please remember to take off your watch and hair elastics from your wrist as they can be distracting in photos.
I recommend a tight fitting shirt or dress in a solid, neutral colour, such as brown, tan, grey, black or white. Jeans/tights work perfectly for the bottoms.
Feel free to bring additional outfits to your session if you want, including things like pre-pregnancy (unbuttoned) or maternity jeans, black tights, a snug tank top, a pretty blouse or sweater, a snug fitting dress and shoes or boots that are clean and stylish.
This session is especially for momma but I encourage dad and other children to be involved in some of the images. For their wardrobe, less is more! Choose a palette of 3-4 colours and mix it up. You want a cohesive feel but want to avoid being overly “matchy.”
Remember to dress weather appropriately if our shoot is outdoors and bring layers that can be easily removed if it’s cold. Snacks or toys for the kiddos are helpful, just remember to avoid anything that’s too messy.
Optional Items to bring to incorporate into your photos: ultrasound pictures, baby shoes, a special blanket, anything with baby’s name, family mementos, team jerseys, personal items, etc . Its better to bring it and not use it than leave it and wish you had it.
Posing Tips
#1 :: The Double Chin
Most women have a slight “double chin” during pregnancy. While most women believe that it’s best to raise their chin, that just makes for an awkward looking angle and a good view of your nostrils. No one wants that! Instead, stick your chin out towards the camera then tilt your chin down and your forehead forward. It might feel awkward but, trust me, it will be far more flattering to photograph.
#2 :: Work It
Sit or stand up straight with your shoulders back. Good posture is key to flattering photos. Most standing poses look more flattering if one leg is bent and the knee is slightly angled in towards the body. It gives the body a nice feminine, hourglass shape and creates definition. Remember not to lock your knees and you’ll be fine!
#3 :: Smile
Real smiles involve your mouth and your eyes and that’s what we want. In our time together, we want to smile, laugh, and look forward with anticipation to the arrival of your little one.
Feel free to practice these in the mirror at home before our session; I think you’ll notice the difference!