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 session may seem like just another item to add to your list, but a maternity shoot can be a perfect time to remind you of the power and beauty of your body during your pregnancy journey. You deserve to have this incredible moment in your life captured, to celebrate with your partner and family the joy of a new baby entering your life.

If you’ve never had a maternity session before, you may not know how to prepare or what to expect. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to everything you need to know in order to make the most of your session and get images you will love.

Plan to book a shoot for your third trimester

The best time to take your photos is in your third trimester, between 30 and 33 weeks. At this point, your bump will be showing well and look great in photos, and you will still 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.

About professional makeup artist

Most of our clients chose to have their makeup done by our in-house professional makeup artist. We highly recommend to our clients, who are taking maternity portraits, to have their hair and makeup done for the session. A professional makeup artist understands how the lighting in the studio can affect skin texture and tones. A good makeup artist will know how to apply the makeup to highlight your best features. Professional hair and makeup is an important aspect to think about when investing in a photo session. Not only do portraits turn out fantastic, but moms-to-be get a little bit of well-deserved pampering!

Please have a shower the day before your photo session. Ideally apply some non-greasy lotion and make sure your hair is fully dried before coming to our studio. The professional makeup and hair service usually takes 1-1.5 hour.  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.

Get plenty of rest the night before

I know, it can be hard to get any decent sleep during pregnancy, but if you’re able to, go to bed early and try to get a full night’s sleep. That way, you’ll 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 keep your energy up throughout the shoot. And even if you have a case of nerves about stepping in front of the camera, be sure to eat breakfast before your session.

What to wear

Wear whatever you feel comfortable and pretty in. We provide a wide selection of gowns and other outfits in our studio, you are also welcome to bring any clothing of your own to include in your session. Listed below are some suggestions:

• REQUIRED: Neutral strapless bra and seamless underwear
• Black bra and panty set (for those black background belly shots)
• White/ivory bra and panty set (for those white background belly shots)
• Lingerie sets
• Tube top
• Buttoned shirt or blouse
• Long, flowy or form-fitting dress (e.g. tube dress or a summer maxi dress)
• Button ups sweater or cardigans
• Men’s button ups top (for partner/husband)
• Coordinating outfits (for partner/husband and/or children)
• Any favorite accessories, jewelries, etc.
• Any sentimental items (e.g. baby ultrasound image, baby toys, baby shoes)

Keep your colors 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 jewel tones that will look great with any background and any skin tone.

Prepare on the day of your session

Before your session, make sure to have a light snack and drink plenty of water. Pack a bag of extra snacks and any other items you think you may need throughout your maternity shoot.

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!