Guide to a Beautiful Maternity Photoshoot
Pregnancy is a special and unique time in a woman's life, and an artistic maternity photoshoot is a wonderful way to document this incredible milestone. Here's a guide to help ensure you have a relaxing, enjoyable, and empowering experience.
Scheduling Your Maternity Photography Session
- Ideal Timing:
- For single pregnancies, schedule your session between 31-36 weeks.
- For multiples, aim for 27-31 weeks.
Preparing for Your Photoshoot
Makeup, Hair, and Nails
- Pampering: Treat yourself to a manicure, hair blowout, and professional makeup session.
- Hair: Natural soft waves look great.
- Makeup: Opt for natural daytime makeup with an even skin tone, accented eyes, and cheekbones. Consider using individual false eyelashes for a natural look.
- Nails: Schedule a mani-pedi a day or two before the shoot. Soft, natural pastel colours are perfect for close-up shots.
Things to Avoid
- Tanning: Avoid fake or spray tanning and excessive bronzers and shimmers.
- Tight Clothing: To prevent body marks, don't wear tight underwear or clothing on the day of your session.
- Heavy Makeup: Avoid too much makeup, dark eyeshadows, and heavy highlighting. Keep it natural and clean.
Wardrobe Options
Clothing Choices
Formfitting Dresses/Gowns:
- Consider having at least one black dress for silhouette shots and another in cream or white for ethereal portraits.
- Flowing empire waist and long "infinity" dresses are versatile and beautiful.
Bandeau Tops and Maxi Skirts:
- It is ideal for a modest yet belly-revealing look.
Lace:
- Lace dresses, robes, lingerie, and fabrics add texture, dimension, and femininity to your portraits.
Colourful Dresses:
- A colourful dress can add a vibrant touch but avoid patterns. Solids are best.
Fabrics:
- Flowy silks, chiffons, and other fabrics can be draped or tossed for stunning effects. Use at least 4 yards of fabric for tossing images and 3 yards for full-body drapery.
Jeans:
- Bring a pair of pre-pregnancy jeans for relaxed portraits. Avoid maternity jeans for a more stylish look.
Accessories and Jewelry
- Statement Pieces: Bring beautiful accessories like statement jewellery, scarves, flowers, or hair crowns. Keep it simple so as not to overshadow the maternity portrait's beauty.
Final Tips
- Pamper Yourself: Relax and enjoy the experience.
- Choose the Right Photographer: Find a photographer whose style you love and who makes you feel comfortable.
- Enjoy the Moment: Plan a date with your partner after the session to celebrate and enjoy your fabulous look.
By following these tips, you can ensure your maternity photoshoot is a memorable and beautiful experience, capturing this special time in your life in the most stunning way possible.