Maternity Photoshoot | How to Prepare & Commonly Asked Questions

Are you getting ready to schedule your maternity photoshoot in CT? Below, I am detailing the process I provide my clients, including answers to some of the most frequently asked questions I receive. Keep reading for more.

When You Should Take Your Maternity Photos

By far, the most optimal time to schedule your maternity photos is at the 28 to 34-week mark of your pregnancy. However, it is important to reach out in advance of this time frame to schedule. This will allow us the time to work together to create the vision for your session. Every mother envisions their maternity photos differently. It may be that you desire a highly editorial look or even one filled with whimsy. Scheduling ahead of time will allow us to work together before you arrive at the studio so that our time together is well spent.

Preparing for your Maternity Session

The best thing you can do ahead of your maternity photoshoot is to prepare for your session in a way that will ensure your comfort. All of the expectant mothers I work with are provided full access to my client closet. This includes maternity gowns that will emphasize the beauty of this chapter in your life, while also showing off that cherished baby bump. However, there are still a few small details you can attend to.

Self Care

Skincare is a crucial part of caring for yourself during your pregnancy. This includes your normal skincare routine, but also exfoliating and moisturizing your legs, arms, and feet. Maternity gowns tend to bare these portions of your body, so you’ll need to take special care to moisturize to ensure that heavenly glow when you step in front of the camera. If you want to take things a step further, I highly recommend a manicure and pedicure. You’ll get to enjoy a little extra pampering while your nails are made photo-ready. However, one thing I will point out is this. Now is not the time to try new products or services. There is no telling how your skin may react and you do not want to experience a breakout or negative reaction prior to your photoshoot. Stick with the products you already know and love.

Purchase Undergarments

Lightweight maternity shapewear or flesh-tone undergarments are highly recommended for your session. Many maternity gowns are body-conscious and show off the bump. You will need proper seamless undergarments to ensure that your body is covered in the right areas. Additionally, the shapewear or undergarments you’ve selected should not detract in any way from the stunning maternity gowns that you’ll wear during your session.

Hair & Makeup

Many of my maternity packages provide a professional hair and makeup experience. I understand that not all women feel their best during pregnancy. However, this session is a time for you to focus on celebrating your body's ability to bring forth new life. A professional hair and makeup artist will understand the intricacies of what works best in front of the camera while also allowing your own personal sense of style to shine through.

Maternity Gowns for Your Photoshoot

My maternity clients receive a concierge-level experience working with me, and that includes maternity gown selection. There are a host of maternity garments available in my client's closet. This includes gowns with flowers, distressed tulle, or editorial looks that evoke street style. In the early stages of planning your maternity session, you will receive a board from me that will allow you to narrow down your choice of maternity photoshoot gowns. This will provide us with a better grasp of the aesthetic we will work towards during your session.

How Long is a Maternity Photshoot?

My in-studio sessions last approximately an hour to an hour and a half. Of course, this is dependant on the package that you have selected when we first connected. This length of time ensures that we are able to work on multiple poses in a variety of attire that captures and embodies the journey you have experienced during your pregnancy.

How To Display Maternity Photos

During my sessions, I always focus on mom in the most natural way possible, as a beacon of beauty and feminine energy. But, my photography approach is also to do this in a way that is somewhat timeless, providing you with photos to look back on for a lifetime, filling your heart with love each time you recall your maternity photoshoot.

You might be wondering how to display your maternity photos once you’ve received them. I always highly encourage my clients to print their photos and display them on the walls of their homes. Many expectant mothers enjoy hanging these treasured photos on the walls of their baby’s nursery. Conversely, you may also hang them on the walls of a common space in your home. Giving you the space to expand your collection of family photos once your newborn has arrived. As part of my dedicated process, when your photos are ready to be viewed, you will meet with my designer to discuss print and album options.