THE SECRET TO NATURAL MATERNITY PHOTOS YOU'LL LOVE
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Thank you for asking me to document your pregnancy for you. I’m so excited to capture this special chapter of your life.
For most people, the idea of having a photo shoot can be quite daunting. I hope this guide will put your mind at rest so it can be a really special experience. Above everything, the best advice I can give you is to enjoy the moment making special memories. You can leave the rest to me.
Thank you for asking me to document your pregnancy for you. I’m so excited to capture these special days in your life.
For most people, the idea of having a photo shoot can be quite daunting. I hope this guide will put your mind at rest so it can be a really special experience. Above everything, the best advice I can give you is to enjoy the moment making special memories. you can leave the rest to me.
While I strongly believe it's good to have a relaxed approach to the shoot, I often get asked questions about what to wear, how to deal with being camera shy and how to prepare the home for the photo shoot. I hope this guide helps. If there is anything I have missed, please let me know.
Jess x
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WHAT TO WEAR
When it comes to being camera shy, or afraid of posing, you really don't need to worry about a thing! I know that is easier said than done but my relaxed approach means you won't need to overly pose or even look at the camera if you don't want to. I want to capture natural and authentic moments so just focus on enjoying the moment. If your partner is with you, treat the shoot more like a 'date' - be loving and playful with each other. You might want to think of some silly jokes to whisper to each other so that we can capture genuine laughter, or chat about special times you have shared together. At times, I will provide prompts, guide you into the best light and gently direct you so the result is flattering.
Feeling relaxed infront of the camera
making real happy memories
What to wear for your maternity photo shoot
Looking & feeling your best
The most common question I am asked is "What should I wear for our photo shoot?". And while I can provide some tips and ideas for clothing choices, I feel what is most important is that you feel comfortable and true to yourself.
I really don't want to direct your wardrobe too much as the memories we are capturing are yours and not mine, so my best advice in this regard is to stick to your personal style.
If you do feel you want more guidance on what to wear for your session I have included some suggestions below.
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If you decide to have photos outdoors consider colours and textures that work well with the seasonal backgrounds.
- Choose clothing that really shows off your bump.
- Jeans and a soft, neutral-coloured, blouse or top is perfect for a casual look.
- Maxi dresses can be very flattering, comfortable and add some drama and movement to the final images. Dresses with an empire line will emphasise your bump the most.
- Patterns & prints can add pretty interest and colour and neutral monochromatic colours work well for a calm, pared back, feel.
- Layer to add texture - think knits, scarf or a necklace etc.
- Don't forget your footwear - again this should be comfortable and work well with your outfit
Clothing suggestions
for outdoor shoots
OUTDOOR SHOOTS
at-home shoots
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The best tip I have is to be comfortable and feel beautiful in whatever you choose. Consider simple clothing thatcomplements the colours & tones of the interiors of your home.
- Vest tops & jeans (non-pregnancy, un-buttoned, jeans are best for the shoot)
- floaty chemises or blouses
- Dresses (body-con, maxi-dresses work well)
- Soft, loose fitting cardigans
Think about the textures of your clothing: wool knits, linens, lace all add interest and a beautiful softness to the images
If you would like to show off your naked bump, consider:
- Underwear: non maternity bras tend to look better than maternity bras. If they still fit, have a few of your favourites to hand
- A sheer or lace robe can add softness and look very flattering
- An open blouse, shirt or even jacket revealing your bump is a really classic look. Wear with just your underwear or a pair of jeans for a relaxed feel.
Clothing suggestions
for at-home shoots
OUTDOOR SHOOTS
at-home shoots
There's no need to be matchy-matchy, but I do recommend that your partner's clothing complements yours in terms of colour.
Please do not feel like you have to dress smart for the photo shoot. Relaxed and casual clothing like jeans and a t-shirt, light shirt or a sweater work particularly well. Starched shirts and Sunday best will feel too formal and make it harder for you feel relaxed and in the moment. The most important thing is to be yourself and to feel comfortable.
Be careful not to choose pin stripes as these do not photograph well. Softer, neutral colours tend to photograph better than bright colours - especially since bright colours can reflect on your skin.
At home, I prefer bare feet but if you prefer to wear socks make sure you choose the ones without holes!
Clothing suggestions
Your partner
It's been such a joyful and positive experience and we are so happy with the end results - amazing pictures that truly capture this special time in our life. We will treasure them forever!
Elisabeth / Wimbledon
What to have to hand
- Bring snacks and water to keep your energy levels up
- Blankets & pretty quilts are always great to add colour and texture and a place for you to sit/lie-down.
- Anything you have bought for the baby e.g. a soft toy, story book, family heirloom, or your scan photo
- Hair & make-up: Some mums-to-be book a blow dry before the shoot but most don't - it really is up you. There's no need for any special 'photo shoot' make-up. I recommend keeping it quite natural and in keeping with how you would normally have it for a casual occasion
- I will photograph your hands so I recommend clean / filed / manicured nails
- I do recommend that you remove your watch
- Bring snacks and water to keep your energy levels up
- Blankets & pretty quilts are always great to add colour and texture and a place for you to sit/lie-down
- Anything you have bought for the baby e.g. a soft toy, story book, family heirloom, or your scan photo
- Hair & make-up: Some mums-to-be book a blow dry before the shoot but most don't - it really is up you. There's no need for any special 'photo shoot' make-up. I recommend keeping it quite natural and in keeping with how you would normally have it for a casual occasion
- I will photograph your hands so I recommend clean / filed / manicured nails
- I do recommend that you remove your watch
When to expect your images
Once the shoot is over, I will personally retouch your
photographs and make other artistic enhancements typical of my style. This process normally takes 3 weeks but can take a bit longer during busy periods.
Once finished, your images will be displayed in an online proofing gallery so you can choose the
photographs you would like to buy.
Please note that your gallery will be live for 1 week only. Due to the volume and size of the files I work with, I am unable to keep any unordered photographs for longer than this period.
I hope this guide covers everything you need to know to prep for your newborn session! However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation, feel free to email
jess@jessmorganphotography.co.uk
or call 07941 967764
I look forward to meeting you soon!
THANK YOU
Jess x