Maternity sessions are just so magical. They mark the beginning of such a beautiful journey, and every time I have the pleasure of documenting a growing bump, it lights my photography soul. There’s just so much excitement and anticipation for this new little bundle. It’s so amazing to see first time parents, and growing families, welcome their newest member.

I offer a full service photography experience, so when you reserve your session with me, I guide you every step of the way.  I provide you with my expertise on when to schedule and what to wear, as well as how to coordinate the rest of the family. I also provide you with exclusive guides on how to best prep for your session, as well as what artwork to choose for your images from your final gallery. I thought I would briefly touch a few FAQ’s about my maternity sessions and explain the RDP experience for those who may be looking to reserve. I also wanted to share this mama’s stunning studio session…we will be meeting her third baby, a boy, very very soon!

~”When to schedule, and do you have availability?”

I recommend scheduling your maternity session at around 28-32 weeks. This way mom has a nice round bump, and still feels fabulous. As far as reserving, I recommend reserving just as you enter your second trimester (or earlier), as I book up to six months (or so) out!

~”What should I wear?” –

Not to worry! I offer a carefully curated wardrobe for my clients that includes the entire family, so I highly recommend a style consultation with me before your session. I love to meet my new Moms at my studio and try on several dresses, to see what she likes best and what looks best on her. Once we choose Mom’s dress FIRST, because let’s face it, us mamas deserve it, we then decide on the rest of the family!

~ “What about hair, and makeup?”

I also highly recommend scheduling hair and makeup for mom the day of the shoot.   A photo session is a fabulous “excuse” to pamper yourself.  I have some amazing Hair and makeup artists to recommend for you.  You want to feel like yourself, only more polished. Also, treat yourself to a manicure a day or two before your shoot. Your hands will be featured prominently in many of the photos. A simple, blush, nude or clear polish will give you the most timeless look. At the very least, make sure nails are clean and trimmed for everyone! This goes for partners, siblings, and anyone else that will be in the photos with you.

~ “Studio or outdoor location?”

I have an equal love for studio and outdoor maternity sessions. So, it’s completely up to Mom where she thinks would be the best for her and the family. Depending on the weather and time of year the studio may be more suitable and/or a great backup plan.

~ “I’m nervous because we have siblings involved.”

No worries, kids usually warm up to me fairly quickly!=) With little ones involved I suggest to Mom to prep the kids with what’s going to happen, where you are going and what to expect. Then if needed, decide on a treat/reward for after!=) I have my workflows down on how I run my sessions, and if older siblings are present sometimes we make adjustments as needed, but all usually goes very seamlessly!

Final thoughts  –

Relax! The most important thing is for Mom to be relaxed and excited and ready to enjoy her experience, everyone else will follow suite! These are a few of the ways my clients prep for their sessions, and more detailed information is sent to my clients in my exclusive session prep guides to fully prep you for your day!

If you would like to see an outdoor maternity session CLICK HERE!

If you are interested in reserving a maternity or newborn session please contact us today at rebeccadyanphotography@gmail.com.