How To Prepare For Your Maternity Photo Session

Congrats! If you made it to this page there is a good chance you have a little one on the way and (if you haven't already) you may be interested in booking a Maternity/Maternity Boudoir Photo Shoot! Well, Lp Photography is here to help you prepare for that exciting day. A couple months back, I wrote a short blog post on How To Prepare For Your Newborn Shoot and I thought it would be helpful to also create a short list on how to prepare for your Maternity Photo Shoot! These tips can help make sure your shoot goes smoothly and that you will receive the best images possible. Enjoy!

Free Printable Maternity Photo Shoot Check List!

Outside Photo Session — Choose Your Location

Are you thinking of creating a city look, do you want a beach theme, or maybe capturing the mountain scenery? If you’re not sure, I can provide some great ideas! I’ve photographed in all types of places so I am happy to help guide you. There are some locations that require memberships and/or a photographing fee, so make sure you get ahead of the game and reach out to the location. I can also help you with that.

Tip: If it is a chilly night, bring along a jacket and/or blankets. You can throw them on and off between shots.

What To Wear

I have several high-end maternity outfits that you are free to use. If you are thinking of buying or renting your own outfit/s, I highly recommend Mii Estilo, Sew Trendy, Chicaboo, J&L Designs or MamaBump Rentals. And, Moms, don’t worry about shoes, my photo session’s are always shoe free!

If your significant other is a part of your session, you’ll want them to wear neutral color clothing and nothing with logos or big patterns. For pants, jeans or kakis are great options. Check out this Pinterest board to get some ideas!

For nude photos, make sure you bring undergarments, like skin color underwear bras and/or pasties.

Date & Time of Session

Don’t forget, the best time to have your session is between 32 and 34 weeks pregnant and you’ll want to contact me in advance. Not only can I book quickly but you’ll also want to have time to rent or buy your outfits, book your hair and makeup artist (especially if your session is in the summer) and, if it’s at a certain location, fees may apply so we’ll want to see if there are any requirements.

For outside photo shoots, it is best to photograph during the golden hour (early evening).

Pamper Yourself

Treat yourself to a neutral or light colored manicure! Your nails will be in almost every photo so you’ll want them to be clean and neat. If you’re thinking of booking a hair and/or makeup artist, I have great recommendations! You’ll want to reach out to them ahead of time, especially if your photo session is during the summer.

The Small Stuff

Make sure to prepare your outfits the night before. You’ll want to check that everything is wrinkle and lint free.

I always encourage clients to share any photos (mine or another photographers) that show what you are visualizing. You’re always welcome to send them to me via email or phone.

If you have a dog, feel free to bring him/her! I am a big dog lover so I love creating the family dog photos.