maternity photoshoot
Your Welcome Pack
Hey!
Congratulations on the incoming baby in your life, and hello from me.
Life is busy even when you're not trying to get through the endless list of things you need to do and buy before your baby arrives, let alone trying to set aside some time to appreciate the amazing thing our bodies can do.
Scheduling in a maternity session is the perfect way to celebrate the miracle that is happening inside you at the moment and also to celebrate YOU!
Even through the exhaustion, back pain, and the nausea, your body is making another human! If that is not worth celebrating how amazing you are, then I don't know what is.
This is also a magical time to document you life just as it is now. Before your family changes to allow another little person into the mix.
WHEN TO BOOK
This question comes up a lot and it is an important one. The good news is you have already made the decision to book and we are in conversation about your session.
So when do you book your maternity photoshoot for? This is different for everyone but as a rule of thumb, anytime between 28-34 weeks is a good time.
But babies will arrive when they want to, so if you’re having twins or you suspect your little one might be making their big entrance into the world early, it’s safer to do it sooner rather than later.
If you’ve been pregnant before, chances are you’ll show earlier, so you could book earlier. The earlier you book, the more options we’ll have with posing and location.
WHAT TO EXPECT
If you feel a little nervous, just know that this is totally normal. Most of us feel a little awkward in front of a camera and it usually takes the first 10 minutes for you to warm up and feel more comfortable. But don't worry, I've got you!
During the photoshoot, don’t worry if you don’t know what to do. It’s my job to direct you so you don’t feel awkward or uncertain. Most people just automatically look at the camera and smile, but I’ll probably tell you to look out the window, or down towards your bump, or up to the sky. I’m sure you have lots of photos in your phone of you looking at the camera and smiling – I want this to be different.
I find that some of the most authentic and natural images come when you’re absorbed in whatever it is you’re doing, whether that’s your partner making you laugh, talking to the little one in your womb, or picking flowers.
I promise I’ll let you know when it’s appropriate to look at the camera. Until then, just do your thing and let yourself be however you want to be.
HOW TO PREPARE
Depending on how your pregnancy is unfolding, doing a shoot could be really empowering or really exhausting. Sometimes, it’s a combination of the two.
I feel confident in my ability to take gorgeous photographs of you regardless of whether we’re in your home or on the beach – but I don’t want to push you beyond your physical capacity. I’d rather you feel relaxed enough to focus on just enjoying yourself and capturing this super special time in your life.
The day before the photoshoot, throw some things in a bag that will support you during our session. These things could be the following, or whatever else comes to mind.
- Extra clothes for if the weather changes
- Snacks and water
- A portable speaker to get you in the mood
- Hairbrush, extra makeup
WHAT TO WEAR
To dress or not to dress… is always the question.
For maternity shoots, nude and raw images can be incredibly stunning, enhancing your expectant curves and featuring your growing bump. But depending on how you want to remember your pregnancy and who you expect to see the images, there are a couple of things to consider.
If you want to keep your clothes on, here’s what we recommend wearing:
- Maxi dresses
- Dresses that have a high waistline or slit. Fabrics with lots of texture, like lace or sheer fabric
- Long flowy skirts with a crop top or bandeau bra
- Cosy, knit pieces
Usually the best route is to go with something that you know is comfy and fits well. Wear things that you’ve already worn before or that you have tried on several times and know it is comfortable and you feel confident in it.
Wear something that’ll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that’ll make you feel like stunning. If you feel like bringing a change of outfit so that we can play with different options and combinations, then do it!
Remember to be careful with prints, logos, and bright colors as sometimes these detract from the most important parts of the photograph – you!
LOCATION
Let’s make this as easy as possible for ourselves. That is to say, let’s shoot somewhere with easy access to a bathroom, is not too far from parking, and doesn’t require you to hike extensively to get there.
I know that sometimes choosing a location can feel pretty overwhelming – there are so many beautiful and photogenic place, but I’m interested in places that hold a special significance for you.
This could be your bedroom, your garden, in the countryside or the beach. Where do you feel most at peace?
Don’t worry if nowhere comes to mind, I have many places up my sleeve that I know you would love.
BRINGING THE FAMILY
It can be incredibly special having your loved ones join you in front of the camera for your maternity shoot. There’s something so heartwarming about being able to look at the photographs and actually see the connection between yourself, your unborn little one, your partner and/or your other soon-to-be big siblings.
Getting them on board can sometimes be a bit of a struggle – though it’s often easier to get the younger kids to come along than it is a hesitant partner. Letting kids be silly, and giving them the chance to see the session as a game is our best chance of capturing some joyful, authentic moments.
If your partner is dragging their heels, try to let them know that it’s normal to be less-than-thrilled about being in front of the camera. The photographs that you’ll be able to look back on will make it all worth it.
Besides, it’ll be way more fun than they think! I won’t make anyone stand in front of me and look into the lens the entire time – we’ll be doing things in the most relaxed way possible so nobody has to force a smile or feel overwhelmed and awkward.
AFTER THE PHOTOSHOOT
Your full gallery will be available to view within four weeks via a private, password protected web gallery.
You’ll be able to create favourites lists, share online, or download your images to use for gorgeous framed prints for your walls.
You will have access to an online ordering system within your own private, online gallery where you and your loved ones can order prints and albums, which I will be on hand to help you with.
Price list available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will we receive our photos?
Your full gallery will be available for you to view on your private, password protected online gallery, 4 weeks following your photoshoot.
Do I have to order prints through you?
I highly recommend ordering prints through the professional printing lab that I work with, but it isn't required. The difference in quality is huge when it comes to ordering through a professional lab, so I always love to help with prints!
I have an online ordering store right within your gallery to purchase prints or albums which I am happy to help create for you with a selection of your favourite photos.
Are you willing to travel?
Yes! Definitely! Travel fees are applied if I'm travelling more than 20 miles from the area BN14, which is charged both ways.
When is the best time for me to book?
I highly recommend booking your photoshoot as soon as possible and to plan your photoshoot for around 28-34 weeks.
But babies will arrive when they want to, so if you’re having twins or you suspect your little one might be making their big entrance into the world early, it’s safer to do it sooner rather than later.
How Do I Book?
A 50% deposit & signed contract is required in order to get a provisional date booked and secured on my calendar. The remainder of your balance is due two weeks prior to your photoshoot date.
Can my dog be in the photos too?
That is a definite yes from me! If you have a dog and they are part of the family, then absolutely we will include them in many of the photos too.
You may just need to remind me that it is isn't a pet photoshoot as I can get carried away if your dog lets me.
Thank You
Thank you so much for your booking and trusting in me as your Maternity Photographer. I want this photoshoot to give you an opportunity to slow down and appreciate your own brilliance.
If you’ve gotten to the end of this guide and you’ve got a few questions swirling around in your head that I haven’t answered, please send me a message. I want you to feel at ease and prepared going into this session.
Your photos are going to be amazing. I can’t wait!
contact details
amy@amyclairebarnesphotography.co.uk
07746 345242