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.

Planning Your Maternity Photography Session

Ideal Timing For Your Shoot

• Single Pregnancies: Schedule your session between 31-36 weeks to capture the fullness of your bump.
• Multiples: Aim for 27-31 weeks, considering comfort and the earlier arrival of babies.

Preparing for Your Photoshoot

Makeup, Hair, and Nails

• Pampering: Treat yourself to a manicure, hair blowout, and professional makeup session to feel your best.
• Hair: Natural soft waves complement the gentle femininity of maternity.
• Makeup: Opt for a natural daytime look with an even skin tone, accented eyes, and cheekbones. Individual false eyelashes can subtly enhance your gaze.
• Nails: Choose soft, natural pastel colours perfect for close-ups.

Things to Avoid

• Tanning: Avoid fake or spray tanning and excessive bronzers and shimmers, which can look unnatural.
• Tight Clothing: To prevent marks on your skin, avoid wearing tight underwear or clothing on the day of your session.
• Heavy Makeup: Keep makeup natural and clean, avoiding dark eyeshadows or heavy highlighting.

Wardrobe Options for Maternity Shoots

Essential Clothing Choices

• Formfitting Dresses/Gowns: A black dress is perfect for silhouette shots, and a cream or white dress can create ethereal portraits. For versatility and beauty, consider flowing empire waist and long "infinity" dresses.
• Bandeau Tops and Maxi Skirts: Ideal for modest yet belly-revealing looks.
• Lace: Adds texture, dimension, and femininity with dresses, robes, lingerie, or fabric.
• Colourful Dresses: Choose a vibrant colour for a splash of fun, but stick to solids to avoid visual clutter.
• Fabrics: Use flowy silks, chiffons, and other fabrics draped or tossed for dynamic images. Have at least 4 yards for tossing and 3 yards for full-body drapery.
• Jeans: Wear pre-pregnancy jeans for casual, relaxed portraits; avoid maternity jeans for a more fitted look.

Incorporating Accessories and Jewellery

• Statement Pieces: Consider beautiful accessories like statement jewellery, scarves, flowers, or hair crowns, but keep it simple so as not to overshadow your portrait.

Final Tips for a Perfect Maternity Session

Ensuring a Relaxing Experience

• Pamper Yourself: Make the day about relaxation and enjoyment to reflect serenity in your photos.

Capturing the Moment

• Choose the Right Photographer: Find a photographer whose style resonates with you and who makes you feel comfortable and cherished.
• Enjoy the Moment: After the session, plan a date with your partner to continue feeling fabulous and celebrate this milestone.

Following these tips can make your maternity photoshoot a memorable experience, capturing this special time in your life in the most stunning and meaningful way.