Pregnancy is an incredibly special time in a women's life. The bond that's created now between you and baby will last a lifetime. Photographing the beginning stages of this new life by having maternity photos done is the perfect way to remember these first moments. While your spouse and other children are welcome to participate during your maternity session, most of the focus will be centered around mama.
The right photographer will do a lot of the heavy lifting, from helping decide your wardrobe, to hair and makeup and encouraging you throughout the session. They know what angles work best to truly photograph that maternity glow and showcase those beautiful baby bump curves in a flattering way. One of the most important things to me, besides documenting this special connection, is making sure you're comfortable. Whether it's what you're wearing, the surrounding environment, or the poses you're in, my biggest priority is you, and your family, and making sure you're comfortable. I also like to make sure you're prepared so you know what to expect from a maternity session. Below are some tips and things to keep in mind as you plan your maternity session.
Things to Think About Before Your Session
Find your photographer sooner rather than later! Don't wait until the last few weeks to book your session as photographers are often booked months in advance. If you haven't found a photographer yet, check out my Guide To Choosing The Right Photographer For You. You can start looking to book around the 20 week mark.
30-35 weeks is the ideal time to schedule your maternity session for, any later than 35 weeks and the final stages of pregnancy start to take a toll (too uncomfortable, not feeling your best, higher chances of going into labor etc.)
Pamper yourself, you deserve this! It's strongly recommended to get your hair and makeup done professionally. Getting done up makes you feel good and that will give you a confidence boost in front of the camera. If you need a hair and makeup artist I have wonderful ladies on hand we can get for you.
As holding the belly is often a focus in maternity photos, it's important to also think about how your nails look. Consider treating yourself to a manicure. If adding colour, keep it subtle. And if your cuticles are dry, coconut oil works great to make them look fresh and hydrated.
Planning your clothing is important to do ahead of time, especially if you are thinking of including your spouse or kids. I have a Client Wardrobe of maternity dresses available to use, which always make mamas feel like a queen! I have a supplier we can turn to if there's another design or colour not yet in the list of options (or if you'd like a matching dress for a daughter). Also be sure to check out the monthly Style Guides in the blogs if you're looking for more inspiration.
Things to Bring to Your Session
A lot of it will depend on the clothing you decide to wear and if you're doing multiple outfits or not, which we will discuss and plan in more detail ahead of time. To cover a bit of everything, here's a list to get you thinking.
nude seamless panties
strapless and/or seamless bra - nude preferably, or black and white
lacy panties or boy shorts - black, white and/or nude (if doing a studio session)
pretty bra and panties that make you feel sexy (if doing a studio session)
pre-pregnancy jeans - they do not need to button :)
tight fitting tank top
favorite pregnancy outfit. Avoid busy patterns or logos on all clothing
Dad can wear jeans and a coordinating shirt. It does not have to match your shirt, but should be a coordinating color. I can help with this.
if older siblings are coming, they should coordinate with mom and dad. Male siblings should be in light pants and a coordinating shirt, and females can be in light jeans and shirts, or dresses to match mom, etc… Cute t-shirts with older brother or sister are items to think about as well.
Other Items
any accessories that will show your personality. Hats, scarves, jewelry...
ultrasound pictures!
baby shoes
anything with baby’s name
any family mementos
any team jerseys, personal items, etc… that you want to incorporate
Anything that you can think of that you might want to use. It is better to bring it and we don’t end up using it than the other way around.
The last recommendation is to not stress! Breathe, relax, and enjoy these beautiful moments. I'm very easygoing and flexible. The most important thing for me is you being comfortable before, during and after the session. And of course to be happy with your images at the end.
Nicole Hemeon Photography specializes in motherhood photography such as maternity, newborn, babies & milestones, as well as landscapes in the Okanagan area, including Peachland, Summerland, West Kelowna, Penticton and Kelowna, British Columbia.
I’m so thrilled you’re here and would love to tell you more about a custom portrait session. From the client wardrobe to hair and makeup, every detail has been thought out, making the entire experience a breeze. If you are interested in a custom portrait session with Nicole Hemeon Photography and would like more information, please click here to learn more about this experience.
If you would like to schedule a complimentary consultation, receive detailed information,
or reserve your date, please click the contact button above or email me directly at: nicolehemeonphotography@gmail.com