Your maternity session is an exciting time to celebrate this incredible journey your body is on. To ensure we capture the most beautiful, timeless portraits possible, preparation is key! Here is everything you need to know on how to prepare for your Tampa maternity photography session, before our time together.
Table of Contents
Prepare for your maternity session with styling:
The Client Closet
One of the perks of booking with me that I’m a maternity photographer with dresses so you’ll receive full access to my client closet. I have a curated selection of stunning gowns, bodysuits, and silks designed to flatter the pregnant form. We will work together to find pieces that make you feel comfortable so you don’t have to worry about what to wear during your maternity photos.
What about Dads & Partners?
To keep the look cohesive, I recommend that partners wear neutral, solid colors that complement the outfit, gowns or silks you are wanting to wear. Please do not wear plaids or designs.
- Linen shirts, chinos, dark wash jeans, or high-quality knits in earth tones, greys, or soft cream
- Avoid heavy patterns, logos, or bright neon colors
Undergarments
Most of these looks fit with a no bra look. To achieve a seamless look with silks and sheer gowns, I highly recommend Cake nipple covers or nude seamless undergarments. This allows us to transition between without straps and you having to take on and off a bra.
Avoid skin marks
One the day of your session, please wear loose fitting clothing (not tight socks and watches) to the studio. This prevents elastic marks on your belly or ankles that will take a longer time to fade.
“Simple” popular look
One of the most popular looks for moms right now is the pair of jeans and white crop top or bra. A white blazer paired with a pair of jeans and bra is also common and easy as you don’t have to buy much. If you are interested in this or another look, please bring them!
Shoes
We will spend most of our time barefoot during your session for that editorial feel (I promise we won’t even see your feet that often and if we do, it’s such a small amount)
- If you do want to wear shoes, please choose heels rather than flip flops or sandals
- If you are going barefoot, please ensure that your partner is also okay with going barefoot. A partner in shoes while you are barefoot will look very disconnected.
Prepare for your maternity session with grooming:
Hair and Makeup
I recommend coming with your hair washed and styled. If you are looking for a professional service, I highly recommend the Aveda Hair School. They do an amazing job with hair and makeup services for a really amazing price!
Details (and what I can’t fix in post)
While I edit for light and skin tones, there are some things I cannot change in Photoshop
Hair Removal
Please shave and wax all desired areas prior to the session
Nails
Please have your nails cleaned and or manicured. You don’t have to have them done with polish, but if they are, I cannot add to or fix a current manicure.
Spray Tans
If you are planning on getting a spray tan, please do it at least one week before your session so it has time to fade to a natural glow.
Skin & Hydration
It is super important to moisturize! Apply lotion to your legs, belly, and arms (add ChapStick to your lips) for a healthy glow.
You will be moving and posing the whole time, so you’re going to sweat. Don’t forget deodorant.
Drink plenty of water in the 48 hours leading up to your session. It will help you glow!
Prepare for your maternity session with these last minute tips!
Fuel Your Body
Please eat before you come to your session. Posing takes energy and you’re going to need it. I have water available here at the studio, but feel free to bring your favorite beverage as well.
Keep your Jewelry Simple
We won’t see all of it, not from where you’ll be standing.
I can’t wait to meet you and capture this special time!