5 Tips To Surviving Maternity Photoshoots

At this photoshoot, you deserve to feel like a QUEEN, and I am here to help you do that. I often recommend loose or flowy dresses so that you don't feel restricted. Any neutral colors or patterns generally look best and will match almost any background. As the photographer, I always offer a free wardrobe consultation if you are unsure about what looks good in front of the camera.

DO NOT FORGET COMFORTABLE SHOES, especially if you plan to have the photoshoot outside! One of my maternity clients, named Becca, decided she wanted a dramatic shoot at Heceta Head Lighthouse. She also decided to wear these super cool heels. However, we didn't realize that she left her slippers in the car and could have worn them on the walk up! Even if you have those dramatic shoes that you want captured, bring comfortable shoes too in order to rest your feet.

Because I love nature and the outdoors, I will often encourage an outdoor shoot, especially in late spring through early fall. You might love a field of flowers to represent the new life and growth in your future, or a really cool lighthouse or even a simple green background. Maybe you have a flair for the dramatic, and want crashing waves or a gigantic waterfall or even a mountain! Be considerate of your hiking ability - my client Becca, her partner Dustin, and I took the long trek up to Heceta Head Lighthouse (about a mile long and a little bit of elevation gain). It was so challenging for her, but so rewarding! However, we did turn down more difficult hikes in leiu of this one. Even if you don't have the energy to hike a whole mile, we can still find gorgeous views just steps from a parking lot. Ask me about my location guide when you book with me!

Some of you might be thinking - Oh, heck no Emma. [Insert reason here: it's rainy or cold or you're on bed rest, etc] Did you know that I am willing to come to your house and photograph you there? I'll even work around clutter, or help you organize a room! Maybe you want photos in the nursery room, showing the process of you painting the walls or arranging the books. Or, if you can't handle the clutter and want to get out, I am willing to book a photography studio for you, which will be a clean space AND keep you out of the crazy weather. Or we could shoot in a bookstore or a coffee shop! The options are endless.

I am not kidding. Here are three reasons you might want to bring snacks: if there is a long drive to the location you selected, if you will be doing any sort of physical exertion (like hiking or walking around a bunch), or if you are the type of mama that just has her pregnancy cravings. I won't judge - I'll be too busy eating my own snacks!

Alright, if you've made it this far, you should know something: I type how I talk... meaning that this is similar to what I sound like in real life, with the additional: YASSSS QUEEEEEN, OH MY GOSH YOU'RE SO PRETTY, and loads more compliments. I believe that my spiritual gift is encouragement, and I bring it to LIFE during our session! I almost love hyping you up more than the photoshoot itself! I just love hanging out with awesome people.

Now, this might be geared more towards those pregnancy announcement photos, but if you didn't get a chance to make those happen, I would absolutely bring your ultrasound photos, cute baby shoes that match yours, or anything else you can think of to personalize the session and make it your own. Even those announcement letterboards with the baby's name or the family name are soooooo cute!