Jacksonville, Florida
You finally got your BFP! Your Big Fat Positive and it’s time to capture this unforgettable time in your life. I’m here to guide you through how to prepare for your maternity photoshoot. I’ve captured many maternity sessions and know exactly what you need to make the most out of your maternity photoshoot.
Choosing a location
There are so many great spots in and around Jacksonville to host a beautiful maternity photoshoot. You want to consider the time of year, how far along you’ll be, and what look you’re going for. I almost always recommend outdoor locations and it really depends on if you want a park scene, beach scene, or more of an urban/city feel.
Once your location is decided it will make it a little easier to choose outfits and props. If you’re one of my mamas then you’ll receive plenty of info on the different locations we love to shoot at. I even have a blog post dedicated to which Jacksonville beaches are best for maternity shoots for my beach Queens.
Before your maternity photoshoot
I always recommend that mama gets pampered prior to the photoshoot.
A fresh manicure and pedicure paired with professional hair and makeup are bound to make any expecting mama feel like she’s got her groove back. Plus, you more than deserve a couple of hours to pamper yourself! Ask your photographer if they have any hair, makeup, and manicure recommendations, or check out my post on spoiling yourself during pregnancy. I have a lot of recommendations for non-local and local Jacksonville, FL mamas.
Coordinate your outfits.
You don’t want to match but you do want to complement one another. If one of you is in plaid then the other could wear a solid in one of the colors that is in the plaid shirt. Mixing any pattern with a solid color from that pattern pairs well, even better if the colors are soft neutrals. Those photograph well and flatter everyone’s skin tones.
Choose and bring props.
Props are a fun and easy way to create different images during your photoshoot. They elevate the shoot and can bring a very personal or sentimental element. Sonogram images are the most popular prop but you can also bring little newborn shoes, stuffed animals, or even something to represent you and dad.
For the mamas looking to get maternity and newborn sessions, I recommend bringing something from the nursery! That way when we do your in-home newborn session you can incorporate that same piece into the photos and tie it all together.
Maternity photoshoot prop ideas:
- Sonogram images
- Baby shoes/clothes
- Chalk or letterboard with their name or some other phrase
- Balloons
- Eco-friendly confetti
- Stuffed animals
- Nursery decor
During your maternity photoshoot
Plan on having fun!
I am all about hyping you up and ensuring you’re at ease throughout your session. Your maternity session will be something you will cherish for years to come so come prepared to laugh, smile, and show off that baby belly.
Trust your maternity photographer.
We may ask you to do something that feels weird or out of your comfort zone but it’s all to create the best shot to capture this time in your life. So lean into the weird and embrace everything your photog tells you.
Don’t sweat the small stuff!
If you have big siblings joining the session don’t put too much pressure on them to stand still and smile. We will ensure to capture amazing shots while keeping them comfortable and natural. The calmer and in control you are, the better they’ll be for the session.
Bring a change of clothes and shoes.
If you want to wear heels for part of the session make sure you bring flats or sandals so that when we transition locations it’s easy for you to walk. If you plan on a beach session I always recommend bringing a change of clothes so you don’t have to stay in sand-covered clothes afterward. I can always bring my pop-up changing tent!
After your maternity photoshoot
Now it’s time for the fun part! About a week after your session you’re going to come into the studio, sit down, and view your gallery. This is my favorite part of the process. You will have the opportunity to see all of the magic we captured and how absolutely breathtaking you are in this season of life.
Just take a sneak peek at these beautiful photos!
The most important tip – Book Your Photographer Early
I can’t speak for every pregnancy, but most of my clients tell me how quickly it flies by. One day you’re getting your BFP and the next moment you’re already six months along! I think one of the best tips I could give you is to book your maternity photoshoot as soon as possible. Not only will you ensure you get the date you want, but you can also lean on your maternity photographer to help you through choosing a location and preparing for the session beyond these tips.
If you’re in or around Jacksonville, FL and you want a maternity and newborn photographer, I’m your girl! I would love to help you capture this beautiful moment as you start your family or add to it. Hurry over to my contact page and let’s get you booked!
More Maternity Photo Tips:
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