Session Length, Poses, & Props I recommend taking maternity pictures between 29 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. Maternity sessions usually last one to two hours. As far as poses/inspiration images go, I cannot guarantee that we will get any specific images, but I will surely do my best to get the images that are of most importance to you and your family. Please either email me some examples of pictures and poses or share with me on Pinterest so I can have a better idea of what you want your pictures to look like. In my style of photography, I prefer not to rely heavily on props, but love to use them as accents when it fits. If you have any specific props you would like to use, please let me know and we will incorporate them into your pictures. I love using family heirlooms, favorite toys, or special items to personalize your session.
Style: Posed vs. Lifestyle Posed photos are more formal in nature with me guiding you into specific poses to best show off you and your beautiful belly. I understand the effects of different angles, poses, and lighting to best compliment you. Regardless of the formal structure, I want to share with the world how uniquely awesome you are as well as the new life inside of you. If your loved ones are joining you in your pictures, I will incorporate them in the poses as well. With lifestyle photos, there may be some posing but the intention is to capture you and your family interacting without always looking at the camera or smiling. Personally, I value both types of styles. You can choose to have your session more posed, more lifestyle, or a wonderful combination of both.
Location When you schedule your session, one of the first questions I will ask is, “Do you have a location or type of place in mind to take your pictures?” I specialize in outdoor photography and have several go-to locations that I know work, but if you have a certain place in mind that’s awesome too! I will be working with you on what “look” you are going for: lake, creek, field, mountain, urban, trees, etc… and then we will pick a location based on the time of year and time of day your shoot is taken and special needs of your family. Each Holly Savage Photography Maternity Session includes one location of your choice up to 30 miles (one way). A travel fee will be applied for any location outside that area. I am also comfortable taking pictures in your home or at a different indoor location.
What to Wear Besides location, this is the most asked about question. There are many things to think about, but please do not stress. At the end of the day it won’t be about what you wear, but the emotion and love felt through the photos. That being said, cohesive colors and fun textures can really add to the feel of your photos. Remember to think about your location and compliment your chosen environment. Also think about patterns pertaining to each other AND your background. Stay away from distracting patterns and logos. Layers and different types of fabrics translate really well to photographs. Don’t feel like you need to buy new outfits (unless you want a good excuse to do so- then go for it!). Find an outfit/color that makes you feel just amazing and coordinate the rest around that. Body hugging shirts, long flowy dresses, and even yoga pants are great for maternity photos. If you are taking nude/semi-nude photos, then I guess your outfit isn’t a concern, hee hee. Whatever look you are going for, make sure it is comfy and easy to move in. And don’t forget to accessorize…remember I love shoes!!!! Have fun with it! With your Holly Savage Photography session, there is no limit to wardrobe changes. I now have approximately 40 designer maternity gowns in my closet for you to rent during your session with me. We will find what you are most comfortable in and style you accordingly. If you have specific questions, please feel free to ask. For more help, this is the best online resource I have found: http://paintthemoon.net/blog/2013/03/wear-clothing-tips-children-family-photosessions-paint-moon-photoshop-actions/
Before Your Session RELAX! If you ever wanted a pamper day, this would be the day to do it. Schedule a massage (either before or after), a pedicure/manicure, and an appointment to get your hair/makeup done. I highly recommend scheduling getting your hair and makeup done for a maternity shoot and can recommend stylists that will make you looking your best. Drink lots of water and get your beauty sleep. Bring snacks and water and comfy walking shoes to your session.
During the Session Again relax, this should be a wonderful experience. I will be guiding you through different poses or positions. Communication is key, if you need more clarification, please feel free to ask. Make sure you are taking breaks to rest or go to the bathroom and to refuel. If there are small children involved, I take my cue from them during those photos. Allowing your kids to be themselves will help me capture what makes you love them so much. Having your children enjoy being photographed makes the session more enjoyable for everyone and for future sessions. Try not to tell the kids to smile or look at the camera, just make sure you are ready and following the directions I give and I will take care of getting your kids’ attention and making them smile, that’s why you hired me. And be ready to laugh- A LOT…we like to have fun on our sessions.
Safety The safety and comfort of you and your family is a priority for me. Please be watchful and help me keep everyone safe. If at any time you don’t feel comfortable, let me know and we will adjust. No picture is worth compromising you or your family’s well-being.
Your Photos After your session, I will share a few sneak peeks on Facebook for you as I edit your pictures, so don’t forget to “Like” my page so you can see them. Within three weeks of your session, you will receive notification that your pictures are uploaded to your private online gallery.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I want this to be a very enjoyable experience for all of you!
Holly Savage Deskin