Styling your maternity session - Island Bay beach

Pregnancy is one of the biggest life-changing experiences you will go through. It’s incredible that our bodies can grow and nurture a new life. I loved this relaxed mini maternity session on Island Bay beach with Meron and Jordan. This was a quick and easy-going 30-minute shoot, which is often plenty of time for maternity photos. I’ve put together some tips for couples who are thinking about booking a maternity session and how you can style it in a way that is made easy.

FIND A SPECIAL LOCATION AND CHOOSE APPROPRIATE COLOURS

Let’s make the most of your shoot by choosing a location that’s going to inspire you (and your photographer) and make you feel good. Turn the session into a memory, somewhere you think you will enjoy the scenery. Light is everything, so talk to your photographer about the best time of day at a particular location.

Think about what will the colours be in the background, from here you can start to think about clothing and how these will blend or contrast with the background. The colours could be seasonal but most importantly, try to pick colours from the same pallet or similar in tones (bright vs. earthy).

HAVE OUTFIT OPTIONS

We managed to do one outfit change in 30 minutes. While you and your partner don’t want to look too matchy-matchy, pick outfits that will complement each other. Neutral colour pallets tend to work best, or fabrics with some texture but not overly patterned. Flowy dresses look stunning but keep in mind the length if it’s going to be windy at your location. Don’t be afraid to soft and light colours, this looks great during sunset.

Reasons to have a Maternity Session - Whitireia Park Wellington

If you’re expecting a baby there are a few reasons why you should consider booking a maternity session! For some couples, photos can feel awkward and being pregnant sometimes you don’t feel flattering for photos. It definitely doesn’t need to feel this way and here’s why…

You may start off with good intentions to document your pregnancy each week with a bump shoot but life gets busy and often these special shots will be missed. A lifestyle maternity session allows you to book in a specific time that is dedicated to you and your partner celebrating your little bundle of joy. It’s actually a great chance to hang out at an epic location and enjoy some quiet moments together.

To the Mums, this is a moment to shine and appreciate how amazing and beautiful your body is. Usually, around 30 weeks is a good time to have photos taken as this is when your bump is showing but it’s not too uncomfortable. Your photographer should be able to direct you and give you some tips on how to pose for a bump shot. For photos with your partner, I will often ask couples to cuddle as they would normally or hang out and walk towards me, these shots are more candid and relaxed - great if your partner isn’t too keen on the idea of having photos taken!

If you’re planning a gender reveal, ask your photographer if you can add in a creative shot which shows if you are having a boy or a girl. This is a great way to surprise your family!

My maternity sessions are usually around 45mins-1 hour long and my pricing starts at $400. This can with or without other children (doggos included). You’ll receive a bunch of beautiful photos like in this blog post, delivered to you in an online gallery ready for you to use them as you please. Get in touch for more details!