Your pregnancy is a special and unique time in your life and there is nothing that can capture the beauty of your pregnancy quite like a maternity photoshoot. For many women, the thought of being photographed can be quite stressful and this is only enhanced when they are pregnant. My goal as your artist is to ensure that your session is an easy, fun and memorable experience. To do so, I find it helps to make sure my clients, who may be wearing maternity robes, are well prepared. Today, I am sharing my top tips for preparing for your maternity photography session.

Tip #1: Know what to expect at your maternity session

I begin the discovery process with all of my client inquiries with a phone consultation. During that phone consultation I’ll briefly explain the process and what you can expect during your experience with Lindsay Walden Photography. We then schedule your in person design consultation. My goal at the design consultation is to make sure you have all the information you need to plan and prepare for your maternity photography session so you are not anxious or nervous about anything. I want the session itself to just be fun for you.

Tip #2: Have a plan for what you are wearing

We will also talk about the design for your session and what you want your images to look like. I offer several different types of maternity sessions as well as a collection of over 100 gorgeous gowns for you to choose from. I will help you select your favorites based on the style and fit you love most and the types of images we plan to create for you.

Tip #3: Plan outfits for the rest of the family

Once we have selected your gowns we will discuss which will work best for photos with your significant other. I will then advise you on clothing options for any other family members that will be participating in your session. If you have a daughter I have a collection of beautiful gowns for little girls from ages newborn up to adult. For little boys I have dapper little outfits up to size 5T.

Tip #4: Select appropriate underthings for your gowns

With your gowns selected I will advise you on what to wear underneath each gown. The wrong bra or underwear can ruin the look of a beautifully chosen gown. If you plan to do a milk bath or underwater session, bra and underwear choice is especially important. I’ll also give you a reminder to bring an extra change of underthings for after milk baths and underwater sessions so you aren’t wearing wet underthings home. I also keep an assortment of boxes of brand new bras in different sizes in the studio in case what you bring doesn’t quite fit right.

Tip #5: Plan accessories for your maternity session

Every detail is important for your session. At your design consultation we will talk about accessories from the jewelry down to your favorite pair of designer shoes. You are also welcome to bring several accessory options to your session and I will help you choose the perfect look. We even keep a few fun jewelry pieces in the studio that you can select from if you’d like.

Tip #6: Prep your skin and hair

Most of my clients elect to add professional hair and makeup for their session. Our fabulous hair and makeup artist, Victoria Pepen, will ensure you look amazing for your session. She recommends that you exfoliate the day before or morning of your session. Be sure to shave or wax as well. Light lotions are great to moisturize the skin but I advise against any heavy oils on the skin before your session. Hair should be clean and dry when you arrive.

I hope these tips will help you in preparing for your maternity photography session. If you have questions or would like to schedule a complementary phone consultation please contact us here.