Session Guide
Your Maternity shoot
I cannot wait to create magic with you...
Thank you for choosing me to capture your story, I hope you know how much your trust means to me. My clients always end up feeling more like friends by the end of our journey together, it’s such a special privilege to be allowed this snapshot into your lives and it's something that’s never lost on me. I know how awkward it can feel, standing in front of a camera, but trust me when I say I’ve got you. Everyone is welcome here.
I’ve packed this guide full of my most helpful tips and tricks to make your session run as smooth as butter, so sit back with a cup of tea and enjoy the ride. Always remember, you can reach out to me with any questions you want. I’m here for you, whatever you need.
The session will last around 90 minutes. I will photograph a combination of individual portraits and couple portraits. Although, your partner doesn't have to be involved - a lot of women choose to do the sessions alone, it's entirely up to you.
Your home
Before your shoot, I'll ask you to send over a few photos or videos of your home so I can get a feel for the space and natural light. This really helps me plan ahead.
I typically use the main bedroom and living room, depending on the light available. We'll make the most of your home's natural light, so I'll ask you to open the blinds, turn off overhead lights and spend some time near the windows.
Your home doesn't need to be spotless! Just try to clear away any clutter from areas we might photograph, particularly bedside tables.
If we're using the bedroom, neutral bedding works best (I can bring some if needed). Blankets, throws and cushions are lovely for adding texture, and I'm more than happy to help style everything on the day.
Fresh flowers and houseplants also look beautiful in photographs, and we can move them between rooms as we go.
Your gallery
After the session your photographs will be carefully curated and processed to the highest standard. Within 21 days you'll receive an email with a link to access your online gallery containing 40+ images to choose from.
Your online gallery is where you'll choose the 5 images included in your standard package. Optional extras are available to order from within your gallery, including a full gallery upgrade and high quality prints.
Styling
Part of the reason you have chosen me to photograph you is because you like my photos and style of photography - part of this is down to styling and choosing what to wear.
An outfit can really elevate your images. I have a client wardrobe full of beautiful dresses that you are welcome to use. Your shoot will allow for an outfit change too some please feel free to choose more than once.
You'll find my client wardrobe here.
Password: photosbyjemma
Of course, you don't have to go with any of my dresses and can bring something of your own. Below is a guide to help you choose.
Tips & Tricks
Firstly - PLEASE PLEASE, if you are hoping to capture some bare bump shots, don't wear anything tight right before the shoot that will leave marks on your tummy, like tights or leggings - the seam will leave am indentation on your bump and it will take forever to edit out of every photos. Loose clothing is best! Large watches (unless they are sentimental) and hairbands on wrists can be distracting in photos are can be hard to edit out after the fact, they can also leave marks when worn before the shoot.
UNDERWEAR! Please consider the colour and style. Strapless bras for off the shoulder dresses. Matching underwear, especially for those bare bump shots. Bras will almost always be visible at some point, maternity bras are comfortable but can be cut very high and will peek out when wearing a dress so it might be best to avoid them. Please bring some matching sets that you love and feel comfortable in. Look for simple, neutral sets, floral patterned sets and/or textured sets such as lace and silk. Soft bralettes are always very flattering. You can’t go wrong in a basic white or nude set.
Choosing your partners outfit -
For Men look for neutral colours including off-white (NOT bright white, it can sometimes photograph really cool and have a blue tinge), cream, stone and brown. Warm toned neutrals and textures such as linen, knits and cotton are easy to coordinate, photograph beautifully and give your photos a timeless feel. I would avoid a crisp white shirt at all costs!
Dads can’t go wrong in a T-shirt and jeans or chinos I have both brown and beige h&m t-shirts in my client wardrobe in my wardrobe in size M & L.
Colours
My editing style works best with warm tones - browns, forest greens, burnt orange, off white and cream. Please avoid cooler tones like pale blues, grey, pastels. I've included a style board below for extra guidance and please use the images in this guide as inspiration, they all work really well!
What to avoid -
- Watches (unless they are sentimental) and hairbands on wrists can be distracting in photos are can be hard to edit out after the fact.
- White can sometimes appear a bit cool/blue in photos, so if you can, please opt for off-white, beige, or cream neutrals instead for a softer, warmer look.
- Phones in pockets, they are tricky to edit out and will delay your gallery!
- Lastly, Men sometimes make the mistake of reaching for their best shirt for a photoshoot - personally, I think it looks too formal and can feel stiff and uncomfortable. I would always encourage a more relaxed look, a t-shirt and a pair of chinos would be my go to.
And lastly,
If this guide has made planning your session even 1% easier then that's a job well done. I cannot wait to meet you and create some magic with you!
Until then, if you need to reach me you know where I am. And from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU!