Preparing for your maternity photoshoot
If you’re here, you’re probably gearing up for one of the most exciting parts of your pregnancy journey—your maternity photoshoot! Whether this is your first baby or you're adding another little one to your family, capturing these moments is such a special way to remember this incredible time.
Now, I know the idea of posing in front of a camera might feel a bit daunting, especially with all the changes your body is going through. But don't worry, I’ve got you covered with some handy tips and tricks to make sure you feel comfortable and look absolutely stunning. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of preparing for your maternity photoshoot, so you can focus on feeling fabulous and having fun!
Things to keep in mind for your maternity photoshoot: the do’s and dont’s.
If you are reading these lines by now I am glad that you have stuck around! My aim is to guide you through your session and hopefully help you to prepare for your maternity photoshoot as best as we can. Here are some suggestions on things to keep in mind while planning ahead:
Things to do before your maternity photoshoot:
Avoid fluorescent colours, these colours tend to change the tone of your skin and they react to the natural light of the sun.
Try on and wear beforehand your outfit: stick to worn shoes, and avoid new shoes that could cause blisters when walking.
Avoid tight underwear, this will show through your clothes and it will cause unnatural lines.
Try to coordinate outfits without matching: choose a palette of colours or a neutral colour like grey or blues and play with the tones of the same colour.
Remove your glasses and transition lenses for your session to avoid glare.
Things to avoid before your maternity session:
Avoid glitter and shimmering makeup, this could react with the light causing unnatural highlights on your face.
Try to avoid having a dramatic change if you are planning a haircut or a change on the colour of your hair before your session.
Avoid having a packed day ahead of your session, most sessions last around 45 minutes to one hour on average, but I will not have a limit on time, so if we need to walk a bit further that’s fine, so avoid rushing on your day to be able to make the most of your session.
How to prepare for your maternity photoshoot
Your changing body during pregnancy can be both an exciting time and also for some a difficult time. For some it’s a surprise, for others it’s been a long journey to get there. Either way, we want to celebrate this season in your life and capture your radiance. A maternity session doesn’t have to be heavily posed and styled, my specialty is lifestyle photography which is an in-between posed studio work and documentary. Through our session I will guide you on what to do to look natural in front of the camera, while we move around. I have prepared this little guide to hopefully provide some guidance on what to expect and prepare for your maternity photoshoot.
Maternity photographer in Melbourne
Let’s plan your location and outfit for your maternity photoshoot: Just like I do for family sessions, try to stick to plain colours and stay away from outfits with letters. Before you plan everyone else’s outfit start with yours, it will then be easier to organise everyone else’s with yours. Make sure that you wear something you feel comfortable with. If dresses are not your thing, then by all means, just wear pants, as long as you are comfortable on the day. Also stick to flat shoes. If you have younger kids with you, then it’s best to plan your session near your home, rather than drive a long time, as the kids will be tired and grumpy by the time they get to the location of our photoshoot.
Remember some accessories:
Depending on the time of the year accessories like beanies and scarves can be a great addition. Also a great tip is to remember to layer your outfit to get different looks for your session.
Remember to relax and enjoy the time with your family:
Let go of your expectations and let’s relax and have a good time. Just remember why you are here, we want to keep these memories without them looking unnatural and cheesy. I will do my best to distract you and let go of your apprehensions. Please remember to let me know if there is something specific you are looking for in your session, there are sample sessions in the Blog of this website for you to take a look.
Avoid making drastic changes before our session:
Your maternity photo shoot is a great time to consider having your hair and makeup done, however it’s best if you avoid having any big changes just before your session so you feel comfortable. If you are planning a hair cut, then get it done a few weeks before your session and just get a blow wave the day before or on the day of your session. The same would apply for your makeup: if you normally wear natural colours, then stick to a neutral palette of colours.
Remember to pack some water and make it a day out:
During our session we will be moving around, and on the warmer months you might get thirsty during our session. If you have young kids with you, then remember to pack a water bottle and snacks, and we can always stop and have a rest if anyone has a meltdown.
I hope that you will find these tips helpful, I am always available for a chat if you need any help with the preparation.
