So you booked your session. Now what?

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Via email we will discuss all the details, talk about wardrobe selection and how to prepare for you session.  I'm happy to answer any questions you have.

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I am excited to capture this beautiful time in your life. Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are.  My goal is not to get a stiff and posed shots but really convey the love you already have for your little one.  I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.

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Location:​  Maternity sessions can take place either in your home for a more lifestyle approach or outdoors in a park beach or urban area.  It's your choice.   Partners and other kiddies always welcome to get in for a few shots.  

~ If you choose your home I'll take a look around when I get there to find rooms with the best light.  Often times that's the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms and maybe even nursery if it's ready.   At homes photos are usually very casual and a ton of fun.  

~ If you choose outdoors I use a wide range of if parks, beaches and wooded areas that I already know to have great light and beautiful scenery.  I have a few favorites out in Suffolk County that I use frequently.

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Time:​ Best light for an outdoor photoshoot is usually the hours near sunrise or sunset.  Most people prefer sunset because if the later time 

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Length Of Session: Sessions can last anywhere between 45 min to an hour depending on how fast we get through things and the location you choose.  I leave plenty of extra time if you wanted to change outfits too.  I usually recommend 2 at most unless it's a simple change like adding a sweater or removing something easily.  

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What To Wear:​   Long dresses with high waists look beautiful to show your figure and your belly.  

You can go with bright colors or simple neutrals.  Both look stunning.  Don't be afraid to shop around or even consider renting your dress at places like Rent the Runway. 

You do not need to wear a maternity dress. Look for something that's high wasted and sits right below your boobs and over your bump.  

Don’t feel limited to just a dress. You can wear a cream sweater, your partners button down or a stunning lace top for something indoors. For indoor shoots it's best to keep everything neutral for a timeless look. 

Try a maxi dress. Floor length maxi dresses are incredibly flattering on a pregnant body.  They focus on your beautiful baby bump while smoothing out other areas you may want to be more flattering to. Try to find a maxi dress with plenty of fabric and even some texture to  give it lots of room to flow. 

Fitted versus flowy.  Wearing a tight, fitted maternity dress that shows off all your beautiful curves can look absolutely amazing but some women may feel uncomfortable doing so.  If that's you, go with a flowy dress.  As a photographer, I personally love the long and flowy because it adds depth, layer and visual interest to the image but truly both are exceptional.  

Little tip - you'll be surprised at what you can find on Amazon 

Expecting Dads: Keep it simple. Jeans and a casual button down with rolled up sleeves, or a college shirt paired with either khakis or jeans

 

Here are some great places to shop 

Momnfamcy

Amazon Maternity

Etsy 

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See my P​INTEREST b​oard for some more ideas

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Props:​ I do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something special in mind please let me know.  I prefer these images to look timeless and have nothing artificial that can date them.  If you do have something truly special in mind that you would like to add the photos  just let me know ahead of time so it can be planned for. 

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Children:​  Siblings aren't in all maternity photos but I do love when we can bring them in for some of the pictures. You are a family after all and this is your story.  Toddlers can be challenging and children in general are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile.  It's best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self.  They will explore but always want to be a part of the action.  It's better to stay calm and let the children come to you.  Don't force anything.  

To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there.

To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. 

It's a good idea to prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them.

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How do I get Ready?:   Have your clothes picked out and ready a week before our session. That way it's one less thing to have to think about as our date approaches.   

In home sessions, just have your clothes ready and the house ready for photos.  It doesn't have to be perfect but tidy up areas in some of your main rooms like the living room, kitchen, master bedroom and nursery.  Removing things you may not want to be seen in photos.  When I arrive I'll look around and move things we may need. 

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​ Do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have.  See you soon!

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