The Bump prep guide
Let me start off by saying, motherhood is a personal, and sacred journey. No pregnancy is the same, no woman is the same. A Maternity session is the perfect time to remind you of the power and beauty of your body. You deserve to have this incredible moment in your life captured, to celebrate with your partner and/or family the joy of a new baby entering your life. It's messy, it's long hours, it's anticipation, it's excitement, it's fear, its love at the most basic and primal core. These beautiful and strong women who carry life deserve to glow. I want to showcase how gorgeous we as women are in every aspect of life. So we can look back fondly at ourselves and recall those stretches, and kick to the ribs when we see these images.
When your baby arrives, EVERYTHING changes. The entire world seems to now be in this little swaddled up bundle in your arms. Every breath is precious, every sigh and "gassy" smile is so sweet. It's a roller coaster of emotions, hormones, lack of sleep, etc. One decision I personally have NEVER regretted is investing in newborn sessions. I love family interaction, and capturing new baby and parents (or twice, maybe third time) is so delicate. Having this session in your home is one less thing to have to worry about. So have a coffee, or better yet, let me know what you take in it and I can grab one on my way to you. Your first two weeks is a big one-So try to breath it in.
If you’ve haven't had a maternity session before, you may not know how to prepare or what to expect. That’s why I've put together this prep guide for you. Everything you need to know in order to make the most of your session and get images you will love.
The When and the where
The earlier your book your session, the better. Maternity session are best done about a month before your due date, or around 28-32 weeks.. You feel pregnant, but you might not FEEL pregnant . 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.
Once your session date is booked, you need to keep in mind the time. I can't express how pinnacle the golden hour is. (hour before sunset, hour after sunrise) Those beautiful photos you see with the warm lighting? yeah those are the ones worth waiting a little longer in the day for. So give the kids, or yourself a nap and try your best for the later time. Or, early rise if you prefer.
As far a where, consider any sentimental locations. Your first date, your family farm, a park you always walk to. I have lots of location ideas as well but I always encourage clients to think about what's important to them. I'm game!
I'm giving you the excuse to pamper..
Your hands will appear in almost all of your images, so you want them looking good! Your maternity session is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself a little with a professional manicure.
Continue the pampering with a visit to your hair stylist. If you’re not sure how to have your hair done, think about what you want your photos to look like. I personally love a simple blowout with waves. Giving a chance to play with your hair.
If you really want to look your best, a professional makeup artist is the way to go. A pro will know how to do your makeup so it shows best in photos. If you decide to do your makeup yourself, fantastic! Just remember to play up those eyes.
FAMILY OR NO FAMILY. IT DOESN'T MATTER
Your family members are absolutely welcome at your maternity session, especially if you want to include your partner or other children. If you want to focus on just you, I welcome that solitude and mindfulness too. It turns into this relaxing hour with just you and your thoughts. I love it!
What to wear
Whether you want to keep it casual with jeans and a blouse or wear a flowing maternity dress, or even both, take time before your session to choose your outfits and make sure they fit and look the way you want them to look. Also taking time to have the rest of family members outfits is super helpful too.
Comfort is important. Maxi dresses are a great option because they are stretchy. The stretchier the better! Choose simple colours, and neutral or jewel tones. It will look great in any background.
Give some thought to your underwear and bras as well.
Here are some great shopping links for finding some outfits
Above all else... Relax
Take your time, plan ahead, enjoy the day. Treat it like a date with yourself or a date with you partner. Have fun and be in the moment with me. I'll be there to take care of you and make sure you leave with beautiful memories and love.
Best,
Rachel