to THE MAIN WEBSITE
MATERNITY SESSION
PLANNING YOUR
choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & More!
Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your upcoming portrait session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photos taken - and I do this for a living!
I'm so honored to help you create and capture memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session, so I've created this guide to help you get the most out of your photos. By the time you've read through this guide you'll have all of your questions answered and feel more than ready and prepared for your session. Then I'll take care of the rest. I can't wait to get you in front of my camera!
I'll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more!
XOXO
KATIE
I'm a natural light specialist because I believe that natural light, from the sun and its reflections, create photographs that feel fresh, timeless, and truest to you. Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when I can—I love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches.
I schedule sessions during what we believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before I’ve finished shooting. Remember, the sun sets much earlier in the winter months and later in the summer months, so be sure to factor that in when determining if you need to take time off work or arrange plans around your session. To get the most out of our time together, please plan a buffer in your schedule so you can arrive a few minutes early and we can start on time. We'll want to take advantage of every second we have together before the sun goes down!
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
Locations
My favorite places to shoot
The location of your portrait session is up to you! Like you'll see throughout this guide, most of my clients choose to showcase the natural beauty of our home state. For most of my sessions, outdoor, open-air environments are always my first choice. I love shooting in wide open spaces because the light is divine, especially during golden hour. There are great options all around the state, so even if you've never seen me photograph in a specific location before, I'm always up to exploring a new spot together!
Duke Mansion - $350 Fee
Freedom Park
McGill Rose Garden
Wing Haven Garden - $125 fee
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Marvin Efird Park - $50 Fee
Fisher Farm Park - $15 travel fee
Tall grass field
Anne Springs Close Greenway - $82 fee
The Ivy Place - $60 Fee
Clarks Creek Nature Preserve (tall green grass)
Hornets Nest Park
Latta Plantation
Jetton Park - $15 travel fee
Morning Glory Farm - $150
North Corner Haven - $150
Andrew Jackson State Park
Other
PLease note that some locations have limited availability and require a fee. You are responsible for all fees and the amount will be added to your invoice.
Please let me know what location you are interest asap so I can confirm availability!
I’ll check in the week of your session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. Let us know what works best for your family, but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, I typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
Outfits
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” And don't be afraid to dress up! Flowing gowns, suits, sport coats, bow ties...there is no such thing as too dressed up.
Generally, couples pick two outfits for a maternity session. This allows for more variety in your final gallery (and more photos!). I recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session, when couples usually feel more comfortable in front of the camera. And don’t forget to bring a few accessories! Statement necklaces, cute shoes and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
find it fast
Say YES to the dress! Skirts and dresses look most stunning because they really flatter every female body--especially on camera. I have a large selection of gowns in my Client Closet available for you to borrow at no extra cost! But if you choose to purchase or rent your own dress, use these tips while shopping.
I love the way larger patterns photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photos look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. I love bright, neon dresses, but I don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Want your photos to look more editorial? Bring a little extra something with you! Fresh flowers, large hats, blankets all bring an extra "wow" factor.
Pairing an accessory or two can really help to bring extra dimension to your images, and can be a nice tie-in when coordinating with a family. Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
A fresh floral crown or custom bouquet adds a beautifully romantic touch.
Although it may seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan or use self-tanning products before your session, even a few days prior. They tend to photograph orange, even when applied subtly by a professional. Your natural skin tone will photograph the most beautiful.
Accessories
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
Shop Döen
Anthropologie
Free People
Baltic Born
Coven & Co.
Revolve
Favorite Shops
Lulu's
Red Dress Boutique
H & M
Vici Dolls
Nordstrom
One Loved Babe
Fillyboo
Gal Meets Glam
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
Professional hair & makeup is typically at the top of my clients' checklists because it looks amazing on camera and takes away much of the stress of getting ready on your own. This is the time to treat yourself! Professional hair and makeup will last longer and give you that extra boost of confidence in front of the camera. It also tends to hold up better for humidity, heat, and wind.
Bonus tip: Always say YES to false lashes!
Hair & Makeup
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
There will probably be times during your session when we’re shooting your hands - which means it’s a good idea to clean up your nails before your session (this applies to the guys too!).
Manicure
ACCESSORIES
WHERE TO SHOP
HAIR & MAKEUP
MANICURE
Outfits
for the ladies
find it fast
You can’t go wrong with a suit and tie. Layer with a blazer and a fun tie - you can even wear jeans with this look. Bowties are always a good idea.
Long, fitted pants with closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from his legs and feet and place it where you want it--on his handsome face. So, for your session, it's best to leave the shorts and sandals at home, as well as any pants that are loose and baggy. Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Solid shades of gray and navy are a strong complement to most women's outfits, whereas pinstripes or plaid patterns tend to distract the eye. I also suggest staying away from graphics and logos.
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
find it fast
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Wardrobe
WHERE TO SHOP
Outfits
for the gents
In my experience, every woman--regardless of her shape--has an area of her body that she's self-conscious about, so recognizing that area in advance is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you'll love the way you look in your photos.
Off-the-shoulder or long sleeve dresses have a slimming effect on all arms, while strapless, sleeveless, or spaghetti strap dresses have the opposite effect.
When considering the length of your dress, factor in whether or not you'll have young children with you. If you have little ones, you'll likely be sitting or squatting next to them. Cute, cocktail length dresses are adorable, but make these poses difficult, as do low-cut tops and high leg slits.
Stiletto heels are not recommended for expecting mamas. Simple wedges or skin-toned, dressy sandals are just fine. If your dress is long enough, or the ground is lush, we may not even see your feet anyway.
Quick tip: Bring a pair of easy-to-kick-off shoes to wear when walking from place to place. Your feet will thank you later!
Flattering Your Features
The goal for coordinating a family is to visually break up the colors and shades so you're not all wearing the same color on the top and bottom. The more we can mix that up, the better.
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Prepping Your
Family
01
02
03
04
Colors
dominant + accent colors
I encourage you to think about planning each outfit with "dominant colors" and "accent colors" in mind. A dominant color is one you see most in the photo, while an accent color has a smaller piece of visual real estate. When you're planning your family's outfits, you can choose a different dominant color for each person, then tie in and vary the accent colors in the accessories. This blog post will help when planning your outfits!
Mixing It Up
bow ties & suspenders, skirts & dresses
If you have multiple children, don't feel like you have to put them all in the same outfit. For example, one of your daughters could wear a dress and flats, while the other wears a skirt and boots, or a romper and sandals. One of your sons could wear a bowtie, while the other wears suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring great visual interest to the photos.
Tip: be sure that little girls wear matching bloomers under dresses.
01
02
03
04
Prepping the Little Ones
snacks, treats, and lots of smiles
Before your session, pack a bag with snacks, water, and any small, neutral-colored toys that your child loves (just in case the toy ends up in your photos). Those may help to get their attention when it's time for them to look at the camera. I also wrote this blog post, which I highly encourage you to read before your session.
01
02
03
04
Have Fun!
get ready for laughs and snuggles
A lot of families discuss and choose something fun in advance as a treat or reward for a job well done, like an ice cream date or bowling adventure. They're little, and I know things don't always go as planned. Give them (and yourself!) lots of grace. I've seen it all and will make sure to deliver some beautiful photos, regardless of their moods. My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family!
01
02
03
04
One thing we’ve learned over the years is that our experience of our children is different from what others experience. For example, if you’re at the grocery store with your three year old son and he starts yelling, you probably think he’s irritating other customers more than he is. Most likely, those other customers just see a cute (slightly loud,) three year old.
The same holds true for photo sessions. Your child is in a new element and a stranger is holding a big camera in front of their face. They’re likely not going to entirely be themselves. They may show off more than usual or your extrovert may suddenly become shy.
Rest assured, it’s all okay.
Managing
little ones
The best thing you can do for your kids is to go with the flow and stay positive. The more you relax and have fun with things, the more likely your little one (or big one,) is to get on board.
It can also be helpful to pack a few treats and bribes for younger children. Favorite toys, special snacks and the promise of ice cream afterwards work wonders.
I'm incredibly patient with kids and have a few tricks up my sleeve to help get even the smallest ones to cooperate.
When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make the two of you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"What do I do with
my hands"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
Portrait Session Check List
Set date, time, and location with Katie
Review Guide for style tips.
Schedule hair and makeup appointments.
Choose your outfits. If borrowing from the Client Closet, send Katie your dress size, color prefrence
Pack a bag with:
o Flats or flip flops for walking between photo spots
o Second outfit (if you're doing two)
o Touch-up makeup
o Water bottles
o Coat or cover up for colder seasons
o Snacks and ice water for little ones
o If you have a toddler or younger child, small eye-catching items to keep their attention, like toys or lollipops
I'm a big believer that images aren’t meant to solely exist in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone, your phone will be replaced and images that you can physically hold in your hand will be the best way to remember those precious moments we captured.
Think about this fact: fifteen years ago, if we had delivered you digital images, they would have been on a floppy disk. With the fast updates to technology, you would have no way to access those images today. Even the online galleries we deliver will eventually fade away.
But prints? Those last. I bet your family still has images from your grandparents (maybe even great grandparents.) And that was likely from a time period when cameras were expensive and prints were harder to come by.
Bring Your Images to Life with
prints
Perfect for those who value legacy. These heirloom albums are a great way to house a large number of images in a beautiful way. Leave them on display as coffee table books or protect them with a legacy box.
Albums
Framed and matted prints are the perfect way to fill your walls with memories. With a variety of frames to choose from, we’ll help you select the perfect image pairings for your space.
Prints & Wall Art
Details for ordering will be delivered with your gallery
Keepsake boxes are one of my favorite ways to store your images.
Perfect for families who aren't sure about their future wall space, or who want smaller prints that are versatile.
Keepsake Box
Yes, you are welcome to print the images on your own. If you do this, I recommend making sure that the printer does not color correct the images (many automatically do this.) I also recommend looking for a high quality printer. While 10 cent prints sound great in theory, the cheaper printing quality often won’t do your images justice. Paper quality, color correction and a handful of other factors play a big role in the way your prints turn out. This is one of the reasons why I LOVE offering prints to my clients right in your gallery store!
A:
Can I print the images on my own?
q:
While I don’t guarantee an exact number of images, I will make sure to capture your family thoroughly. Most families should expect to receive a minimum of 25 edited images following their session.
A:
How many images will I receive?
q:
We guarantee that your images will remain in an online gallery for a year. While your galleries may stay up longer than that, I cannot guarantee it. Once your galleries have been delivered, I highly recommend downloading all high resolution images to several devices. Consider investing in a portable, waterproof external hard drive.
A:
How long will I have access to the images?
q:
You can expect a sneak peek 1-2 days after your session. Final images will be delivered 30 days from your session date.
A:
When will I receive my images?
q:
Frequently
asked
Questions
You are absolutely welcome to share images on social media. To ensure that my work is properly represented, I ask that you don not use any edits. I also appreciate image credits and tags as they help us to continue to grow as a business.
A:
Can I share the images on social media?
q:
By default, the creators of images always own the rights to the images. However I'll give you a release to use, print and share your images. The only thing you won’t be able to do is sell your image as a stock photo. I won’t do this either without your written permission.
A:
Do I own the rights to the images?
q:
I typically plan about 60 minutes for sessions. While I likely don’t need to be shooting this entire time, this does give us the flexibility for location changes, rowdy kids and time to warm up.
A:
How long should we plan for the session to take?
q:
I do light retouching on all images. This means that if there are any glaring objects that should be removed (such as a bump from the tumble your toddler took that morning,) I’ll remove it.
A:
Will you retouch our images?
q:
I know I just gave you a lot to think about. I created this guide to help make your portrait experience something you'll look back fondly on for years and years. It's not just about the photos for me. It's about the experience and the memories. I want your session to be a time when you are yourselves, have fun, laugh a lot, and let me take care of the rest!
xoxo, Katie