Smiling parents sit on the floor with two toddler daughters in a cozy maternity family portrait, mother cradling her baby bump.

 

Maternity Session Guide

 

 

I'm so excited to capture this beautiful chapter of your life!


Whether this is your first baby or you're adding another little one to your family, maternity sessions are such a special way to document this season before your newest addition arrives.


My goal is to make your session feel relaxed, comfortable, and natural while creating timeless images you'll love looking back on for years to come.


This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your session!

 

When to Schedule

I typically recommend scheduling maternity sessions between 30 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.


During this time, your bump is usually beautifully rounded, but you're still comfortable enough to move around and enjoy your session.


Every pregnancy is different, though! If you're a little earlier or further along, that's perfectly okay.

Pregnant woman in a cream flowy maternity dress cradling her baby bump in a sunlit meadow of wildflowers and daisies.

What to Wear

Choosing the right outfits can make such a difference in the overall look of your photos!


I recommend soft, neutral colors and timeless pieces that complement your natural beauty without distracting from your growing bump.


Some of my favorite colors include:


  • Cream, ivory, and white
  • Beige, taupe, and warm browns
  • Soft sage and muted greens
  • Dusty blue
  • Muted mauve and soft lavender


Flowing dresses, fitted gowns, soft knits, and pieces that highlight your bump all photograph beautifully.


I recommend avoiding bright colors, large logos, busy patterns, and anything that feels uncomfortable or restrictive.


Most importantly, choose something that makes you feel beautiful and confident!

Preparing for Your Session


A few little things can help your session go smoothly!


  • Try on your outfits beforehand to make sure everything fits comfortably.
  • Steam or iron anything that wrinkles easily.
  • Moisturize your skin, especially your hands and belly if they'll be visible.
  • Keep your nails clean and polished, as your hands will be featured in many of your portraits.
  • Bring comfortable shoes if your session is outdoors.
  • Eat something beforehand and bring water to stay comfortable.
  • Professional hair and makeup are always a lovely option, but they're certainly not required!
Bearded man in a black tee touches foreheads with his red-haired pregnant partner in a lace top while cradling her bare baby bump.
Silhouette of a pregnant woman in a fitted black off-the-shoulder gown cradling her baby bump against a bright white background.

Studio Portraits


Studio sessions offer a quiet, comfortable environment with beautiful, soft lighting and minimal distractions.


My studio style focuses on simple, timeless portraits that keep the attention on you and your growing bump.


We'll work through a variety of poses, both standing and seated, with plenty of time for outfit changes and breaks whenever you need them.


The studio is located in Oxford, Michigan, inside the Legacy 925 building.

Expecting couple holds hands on a wooden boardwalk through tall grass, the woman in a black fitted maternity gown with a flowing train.
Pregnant woman in a blue off-shoulder dress sits on a rock in a sunlit grassy field at golden hour, cradling her baby bump.

Outdoor Portraits


Outdoor maternity sessions are typically scheduled during golden hour, when the sunlight is softer and creates that beautiful, warm glow.


I love choosing locations with natural textures, open fields, tall grasses, and soft greenery.


We'll decide on a location together based on the season, scenery, and overall look you're hoping for.


Since Michigan weather can be unpredictable, I'll keep an eye on the forecast as your session approaches. If the weather isn't cooperating, we'll discuss rescheduling.

What to Expect During Your Session


Please don't worry about knowing how to pose! I'll guide you through everything, from where to place your hands to how to stand, sit, and move naturally. We'll take our time, make adjustments as needed, and incorporate breaks whenever you're feeling uncomfortable.


My goal is for you to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or pressured!


After Your Session


1 week following your session, you'll receive an online proofing gallery where you can choose your favorite images. Your gallery will include softly edited proofs, along with a few fully edited examples so you can get a feel for the finished look. Your maternity collection includes 20 professionally edited digital images.


Once you've made your selections, I'll begin the final editing process. Your completed gallery will typically be delivered within1 week after your selections are submitted.


Additional images may be purchased if you fall in love with more than your included collection!


A Little Reminder


Pregnancy can be beautiful, exhausting, exciting, and emotional, sometimes all at once. You don't need to feel perfectly put together or know exactly what you're doing in front of the camera. Just come as you are, and I'll take care of the rest.


I can't wait to create something beautiful with you!