Maternity Photo Session
Maternity Photos have changed in the last few years. I don’t think most of our parents or grandparents hired a photographer to do a professional maternity photo shoot. In fact, the thought of this probably still seems strange to a lot of people. However, times have changed and maternity photos are just another way to document a special and exciting time in your life. I may have originally started out as a wedding photographer, but as time past I found a lot of my couples returning as their families grew. Maternity Photos are a way for you to celebrate the baby you’re about to meet, celebrate your love for each other, and celebrate the strength of your incredible body.
While some couples choose to select their photographers based on their specialty, others prefer to work with the ones that make them comfortable. There is a familiarity of having a family photographer that gets to know you and appears every so often to document the milestones of your life. The idea time for your maternity is at the 7-8 months mark. So as a mom-to-be, you’re probably uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger being around. Clothes aren’t fitting you right, body parts are starting to swell, and your entire centre of gravity has shifted. If you had concerns about double chins and body fat before your pregnancy, you’re probably even more self cautious now.
Dresses
My maternity photo sessions come with these concerns in mind. I offer an assortment of maternity gowns for my clients to utilize. They’re stretchy and can accommodate a wide variety of body types. Some of them are even shorter for petite moms so it doesn’t look like their drowning in the dress. They’re also available in different colours. Blues and pinks to reflect the baby’s predicted gender, or neutral if you’re waiting for the surprise. When planning your maternity shoot with me, you’re welcome to use one of my dresses or something of your own. I don’t require professional hair/makeup for these sessions. However, I do find a lot of moms do this on their own. It’s the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. And let’s be honest, you totally deserve it.
Editing
I offer enhanced editing as well. With so many of the dresses being off-shoulder, I erase peeking bra straps. Edits also include reducing double chins (when possible) and smoothening out undergarment bulging/rolls. I include these edits in my maternity package prices as a standard. If you prefer to go more natural, by all means, let me know. I want you to thoroughly enjoy this experience and have some great memories to look back on.
Location
Choosing a location is very much up to you. You’ll have a better idea of what you’re physically able to handle during your current stage of pregnancy. Things to consider include walking distance required. Bluffers Beach for example is a gorgeous waterfront location with tall cliffs as your backdrop. However, it’s a good 10min walk from the nearest parking lot and bathroom.
Speaking of washrooms, they’re not always available at public parks. So if you’re planning on wearing one of my gowns or changing on arrival, you may need to get creative with this. I normally recommend wearing comfortable tights and a cami as your base allowing for easy costume changes. If you’re planning a winter shoot, warm boots and thermals hide well under these gowns and long-sleeve gowns are available as well.
If you are looking for ideas on planning your upcoming maternity shoot, feel free to send me an inquiry and we can walk through all the steps. I also offer newborn shoots as well so be sure to check in again when your baby finally arrives.
This maternity shoot was done at the Kariya Park. This particular session was performed during COVID using new safety measures. To learn more about these protocols, check out my COVID Protocols page.
I also photographed their pre-wedding event, anniversary, pet session, and newborn photos.
