oh hey there, mama to be.
This is such an incredible, blissful, exciting time in your life - and it’s an honour to document this moment for you. As you’re preparing to bring a new life into this world, you’re also probably wondering how to prepare for your upcoming maternity session.
here’s what you need to know.
For starters, you should have your session booked around the 30 week mark. By then your belly is NICE and round - perfect for photos! It also allows me enough time to edit the photos before baby arrives. I like to say 30 weeks is the hot spot, but anywhere from 30-35 is fine.
You’re also welcome to bring your spouse/partner and children along for the session if you’d like. Maternity sessions can include your immediate family, or just you on your own! Whatever you prefer :)
so, what about location?
There’s quite a few options when it comes to maternity sessions, so choose the location & vibe that suits you best. Here’s some examples of location ideas.
nature/outdoors
I love photographing maternity sessions outdoors. These can take place at any point throughout the year! Winter, spring, summer or fall. Whatever the outdoor setting is, we can make it beautiful.
waterfall
Waterfalls are another beautiful spot in the area. I have a great nature spot that we can squeeze both the trees/forest AND a waterfall into your session too.
BEACH
There’s a great beach strip downtown Hamilton we can venture to if you want beach/nature vibes.
my studio
SO many options and perks available if you choose to do your session at my studio.
For starters, you have full access to my Client Closet - which includes everything from robes/kimonos, boho maternity dresses, angel wings, lingerie pieces, jewelry & accessories - plus full access to all the set ups at the studio.
Whether you want a more sophisticated/editorial vibes as shown in this photo, OR you’d rather go for a more laid back boho & bed vibe - the studio has tons of options we can customize to suit your needs.
OKAY, BUT WHAT DO I WEAR?
There’s a few options when it comes to maternity session outfits. One perk about doing the session at my studio, is you get full access to the client closet - including many maternity style gowns & robes. We can even do more of a “cozy, laid back lingerie” style maternity session and throw on a cute two piece with a robe or comfy sweater and use the bed set up. Tons of possibilities.
However, if you’d rather go the outdoor route - you’ll just have to bring your own outfit.
I’ve put together a few Pinterest inspiration boards to help you get a better visualization! As for your partner, just find them an outfit that compliments yours. Stay within the same colour scheme, and stick to complimentary tones.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use the Client Closet if I do my session outdoors?
Unfortunately, no. I’ve realized it’s a lot of work to transport the outfits all over the place. I have to pick them up before the session from the studio (which is sometimes veryyyy out of the way), bring them to the session, somehow iron or steam them if they wrinkle, bring them home to wash, bring them back to the studio etc. It’s a lot of extra work on me - so I’ve decided to only open the Client Closet items to sessions that take place in my studio.
What props are available to use at the studio?
Tons! I have big giant angel wings, massive robes (I’m talking ginormous STATEMENT robes), an entire closet of lingerie, gold & bling accessories, plus full maternity gowns. We can also customize the setting to suit your liking. There’s so many different areas of the studio to play with - we can get any look you’re after!
Can my spouse/partner and kids be a part of the session?
Absolutely! Your immediate family is always welcome to the session. I will still get lots of shots of you on your own too.
Am I able to swap outfits throughout the session?
Sure, as long as we are able to squeeze everything into a 45 minute session - I don’t mind you doing an outfit swap! Some clients like to do a dress look, then a more casual/laid back look (sometimes lingerie or calvin klein vibes).. totally your call!
When will I receive my final gallery of images?
Your gallery will be delivered to you within 6 weeks of our session. I no longer send sneak peeks as that prolongs my entire editing process - however this means you’ll get your FULL gallery much quicker! If your package includes a set number of images, you’ll be able to go through the entire gallery and pick out the ones you love. You’ll also have the option to purchase additional images or the entire gallery as a whole too.
That’s pretty much it! If you have ANY other questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out!
I’ll be in touch to confirm our meeting spot and time closer to the session. So excited to work with you!!!
See you soon!
- Katie