Maternity Family Photo Session Preparation Guide
For many moms-to-be, the idea of maternity images is exciting as the idea of having a baby itself. To others, it is a questionable, since your body has transformed to a place you might not have imaged it ever going.
While it might be your first or your third pregnancy, each will deliver you an experience that is unique to this world. That deserves to be captured. If even there is a time to entrust yourself to the hands of a professional photographer, it is during this time. Professional maternity photography is not a snap for an Instagram shot or a few shots taken on a phone at your kitchen. It is working with someone who understands that certain poses will photograph better than others, that lighting is a key, and with bit of guidance, you will look as amazing!
When to book your maternity photo session? The best time for your maternity session is around 28-34 weeks: your belly is full and round, but you are still comfortable to pose. For expecting mamas with twins (or more), come in earlier around 26 – 32 weeks since twins tend to arrive earlier. I have had a maternity photo shoots close to delivery day with beautiful results, but I would rather have clients towards the earlier side, where mamas-to-be are feeling their best. However, it is completely up to you at what stage you would like your maternity photos taken.
Location…
For your maternity photo session, I provide you with the option of shooting in a private location such as your home, outdoor or my downtown Indianapolis photo studio.
When considering the location for your maternity shoot, keep in mind the advantages/disadvantages of them.
Indoor (e.g. in the home)
Advantage: comfort and connection to familiar surroundings. No need to worry about the weather.
Disadvantage: you have to clean your house so it looks good for the photos. The lighting may not be ideal, and I might have to use a camera flash if necessary.
Studio
Advantage: convenience and control, no dependence on a weather and time of the day. Couture maternity dresses are available on a spot
Outdoor
Advantage: the pure beauty of a pregnant woman in an outdoor background is simply amazing! It is something about a mother bringing a new life into the world; and Mother Nature is a super powerful one.
Disadvantages: weather-dependent and shooting hours are limited to the golden hour of sunrise or sunset (to avoid harsh shadows). Reschedules can happen and may trigger the rescheduling of other related appointments (professional makeup and hair artist and etc). Be prepared to walk/hike to the location and change outfits outdoors. For any outdoor session, I do carry a bottle of a bug spray in my back pack.
Professional make up and hair...
I highly recommend professional makeup and hair. Not only will this make my work easier, but you will feel confident and beautiful during your session. However, if it’s not in the budget, your going-out-on-a-hot-date makeup and hair are fine too. Your hands will be photographed on your belly, so, please keep in mind while choosing the nail polish color (French style or plain natural work great)
Splash Hair Salon and Spa
Address: 4659 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46250
Do not forget to mention Tatiana Kahl Photography for additional discount
Cori been doing hair and make up for 12 years, and the beauty of working with her, she will come to your place and will make you looking your best! $75 for makeup or $125 for make up and hair styling
Posing...
Trust me to direct you in posing so you can look your best. There are some posing tricks to empathize the beautiful curves of your belly and body. Maternity portraits are focused on you, your personality, feelings and the bond you have with your awaited baby.
What to wear...
I do have a collection of couture maternity gowns that I provide for maternity portraits to my clients. During the consultation you could try those on prior the session...
If you prefer a natural look, here is a list of some simple ideas:
Buttoned shirt and regular jeans (Not maternity one)
Long, flowy or form-fitting dress: tube dress or a summer maxi dress
Don't forget accessories, jewelries, scarfs, etc...
White/Black/Baby Blue/Grey, any natural solid color shirt and classic pants or jeans (for significant other/husband)
Strapless nude color bra and underwear: some of my maternity dresses are see through, so nude colored underwear helps to prevent it from showing in photos
AVOID clothing with multiple patterns or large logos since it will become a distraction. Strong prints and abstract patterns can overpower your photo.