Maternity sessions explained | Cornwall, Ontario

Pregnancy is so many things. It is joyful, beautiful, and often hard, if we are being honest. You will never regret your decision to capture this time in your life as it goes by so fast. In case you missed it in my bio, I am a mother also so I have a deep love & appreciation for all things pregnancy related. 

As you have seen in my portfolio, my images are organic & natural, capturing who you are right now. I will never ask you to wear an uncomfortable gown or place you in uncomfortable positions. My goal is to capture the beauty that is your pregnant body & to also capture the connection between you & the little soul inside you. We will also celebrate these last moments as a family of two, three, or whatever size your family is right now. I think it is special to have memories of what your family looked like right before the baby arrives.  

First, know that planning ahead is a must! Photographers’ schedules aren’t blank slates & if you’re hoping for hair with makeup, your dream team could be impossible to muster together without a couple months’ notice. As for the timing, it’s best to book your session between 28 and 35 weeks so that your bump is visible but you’re not uncomfortable.  My maternity session clients schedule their maternity sessions 2 to 3 months in advance & I only schedule 3 maternity clients a month.  This allows my schedule to stay flexible & for me to give every client the attention they deserve.

Choosing your photographer for your maternity session is a personal decision, there is such a wide range of styles of photography. Dig into online portfolios of your favourite photographer to find a style that aligns with your vision & don’t forget to read reviews!

Don’t overlook the importance of a professional Makeup Artist. I made that mistake at my wedding almost 20 years ago before the popular advent of MUA’s & I look back at the photos wondering where my eye lashes were!! Ugh. Much like when you pick a photographer, portfolios are available online and you should find a person whose style matches yours.  For amazing MUAs in your area, you are able to find names through friends, your hairstylist, Googling, on Facebook & I have a select few to recommend.

If you’re hoping for a certain look from your session have a chat with your photographer.  They will probably have some ideas of their own to add into your session or give you an idea of when to schedule your session to obtain the perfect light for your images! 

Choosing what to wear for photos is a  real struggle for most clients whether it’s for a maternity session or not. I recommend having two outfits at the ready that are timeless, lean toward solid colours rather than prints to best show your shape, and that you bring a few different accessories such as a belt to frame your bump, shawl, favourite loose sweater or jewelry. If you’re interested in a studio session, some key pieces to use could be a kimono, black tank top, favourite loose sweater & matching intimate set.  As for clingy vs flowy, both can work with the right poses but no matter what you wear, be sure there are seamless panties & a good bra underneath.

Deciding on a location for the backdrop of your session is important, keep in mind that “outdoor” locations are weather-dependent so if you’re due late in Winter, it might not be an option. Your photographer will have suggestions for indoor spaces, you can shoot at home or you can opt for a studio session. The best part of a studio is that the light is always perfect, it’s comfortable & you don’t have to tidy your own house.

“I am so uncomfortable in front of the camera!” don't worry, I hear that pretty much every session!   A professional photographer will help be your guide & give you constant tips through out your session….enjoy your session!  Soon you’ll be pampering someone other than yourself, so soak up this experience! Your photographer is there to capture the precious connection you have with your baby-to-be & that will radiate if you just relax & feel the love!

Whether you use the photos for your child’s baby book, to print for your home or partner’s office, update your Facebook profile photo that will make your dear friends & family smile, a professional maternity session is well worth it no matter if this is your first or fifth baby bump!