MATERNITY
You’re having a baby! Congratulations! What an amazing part of your journey! Whether this is baby number one or number five, choosing to have this time documented is always the right decision. I personally can’t think of anything more beautiful than a woman’s body, especially when it is going through the changes that come with growing a human. If you’ve made it here, then I’m assuming you feel the same way. To me, a maternity session is a celebration of two things: the anticipation of a new baby and the birth of a Mother.
Once you’ve booked, what’s next?
Location - lets decide together what will be the best location for your shoot. Sometimes this can depend on the season, but either way we have options. Our studio is an excellent choice if you’re interested in an editorial vibe or if it’s cold outside. Your home is always somewhere cozy and familiar (but, keep in mind, if we’re doing newborn photos they will be done at home too). And, of course, outside when it’s nice and warm out - at the lake, in a field, on a mountain - the options are endless.
Outfits - Now, this is your call and what you envision. Whether you’re in your birthday suit (my fave), an elegant maternity gown
*if you rent a gown from JH Gowns please let her know that it is for a photoshoot with me and you will receive a discount!
Time to pamper - Keep in mind you will be barefoot, so here’s your permission to go for that pedicure. I suggest keeping hair loose and down so that you can play with it in the photos for some movement. Not mandatory, but if you’re interested in having your makeup done I can help you with a list of local MUAs that would love to have you in their chair!
Above all, please just relax and enjoy this special celebration of you and your baby. I can’t wait to photograph you and that beautiful bump!
NEWBORN
Newborn shoots are near and dear to my heart. This is such a special time in your journey. Newborn sessions are quiet and cozy. They are warm and slow. And, they are by far my favorite photography storytelling experience. I typically recommend newborn sessions between 1-3 weeks postpartum, and in your family home. I suggest keeping outfits casual and comfortable, as there will be a lot of cuddling going on. I encourage the house to be warm so the baby is comfortable between outfit changes. And yes outfit changes are totally okay! Feed baby right before I arrive, and as often as need be throughout our time together. We do what we have to do to keep baby happy! Feeds, snuggles, pacifiers, or bum changes - I promise I’m not in a rush.
With all that said, I also know how difficult of a time this can be for new parents too. I understand that this can be a physically and mentally exhausting time. To be completely honest, I was in such a deep postpartum depression with my first that I don’t really even remember the day we took newborn photos. But, what I do know, is that I am so glad I have those moments documented. I often look back at the photos and am so proud because in a time that I thought I was just surviving, I was actually thriving and doing an absolutely damn good job. I know this isn’t everyone’s experience, but it was mine and I want my clients to know that it’s okay if it theirs too. Please don’t fuss over the state of the house. I will work around it if I have to. Please don’t spend hours on your hair and makeup - you are beautiful. Let’s just have a cup of coffee, take a deep breath and enjoy this time with your perfect baby.
