Congratulations on your pregnancy!

One of the best ways to document this exciting time in your life is with a maternity photoshoot. At Renee V Photography, we specialize in capturing the beauty and elegance of pregnancy, and we want to make sure that you feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. To ensure your maternity session goes smoothly and you look your absolute best, here’s a complete guide on how to prepare, what to bring, and what to expect.

1. What Should I Bring?

Preparing the right items for your maternity session is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly and you feel confident throughout your shoot.

Here's a checklist of things to bring:

Underwear: For gowns and dresses, I suggest bringing nude, black, and white colored bras and knickers to wear under your outfit. These colors are discreet and won't show through the fabric, helping you feel more comfortable and confident. Avoid anything with patterns or bold colors that could distract from the elegance of your gown.

Accessories: Small touches can elevate your look. Bring along any jewelry, scarves, or accessories you’d like to incorporate into your photos. A delicate necklace or a soft shawl can add texture and personal style without overwhelming your outfit.

Water and Snacks: Depending on the length of your session, it’s a good idea to bring along some water to stay hydrated, and light snacks to keep your energy up. Maternity sessions can sometimes last an hour or more, so keeping your energy levels steady is important.

Personal Items: If there are any personal or sentimental items you’d like to include in the shoot—such as ultrasound pictures, baby shoes, or something meaningful—feel free to bring them along. These details can add a special touch to your session.

2. What About My Partner and Children?

If your partner and children are joining the session, here are some tips to make sure everyone is prepared:

Coordinate, Don’t Match: When planning your outfits, aim to coordinate, not match. Choose colors and textures that complement each other. For instance, soft neutrals or pastel tones look great for family photos and create a cohesive but natural look. I can guide you in picking a color palette that will make the entire family look great together.

Outfit Ideas for Your Partner: Your partner should wear something simple and timeless, such as a fitted shirt or sweater with jeans or dress pants. Avoid busy patterns or logos, as we want the focus to remain on you and your beautiful pregnancy. A well-fitted, classic outfit will keep the look stylish yet understated.

Children’s Outfits: For young children, comfort is key! Choose clothes they enjoy wearing and that allow them to move freely. Simple patterns, soft fabrics, and neutral tones usually work best, as they won’t distract from the main subjects of the shoot. Consider bringing a couple of outfit options in case they get fussy or need a change during the session.

3. Hair & Makeup Recommendations

Your hair and makeup can make a huge difference in how you feel and look during your photoshoot.

Here are some tips to ensure you look radiant and camera-ready:

Hair: A blowout or soft waves always looks beautiful in photos. Avoid drastic changes to your hair right before the shoot (such as cutting or coloring), as it’s best to stick with a style that you feel comfortable and confident in. Whether you prefer your hair styled up or down, make sure it’s something that feels natural to you.

Makeup: I recommend booking a professional makeup artist if possible. I have partnered up with Glamorous Armani who is specialised in Bridal and Formal. She can provide her service at her studio before your session for an ADDITIONAL $140. This is NOT included in Renee V Photography's Package price.

If you choose to do your own makeup, aim for a bit more coverage than usual to ensure it lasts throughout the session. Focus on defining your features and creating a glowing complexion. I also suggest a slightly stronger eye makeup to ensure your eyes stand out in the photos.

Touch-up Kit: If you’re doing your own makeup, bring along a small kit with essentials for quick touch-ups. A little powder, lipstick, and any other items you may need can help you stay looking fresh throughout the session.

4. Manicured Nails & Fake Tan

To make sure you look polished and put-together, here are a couple of beauty tips:

Manicured Nails: Well-manicured nails can really elevate your photos, especially if your hands or belly are featured prominently. Choose a neutral or soft color that complements your outfits or go for a classic French manicure for a timeless look.

Fake Tan: If you’re using a fake tan, it’s best to apply it a day or two before the session to give it time to set. Avoid applying it the day of the shoot to prevent streaking or uneven patches. If you’re unsure about self-tanning, consider using a bronzing lotion or getting a professional spray tan.

Please plan ahead and use Google to calculate the distance from your home to my studio and allow some extra time for traffic etc.

Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Above all, the most important part of preparing for your maternity session is to relax and enjoy the experience. This is a beautiful moment in your life, and our goal is to capture the love and excitement of your pregnancy. Don’t stress about achieving perfection—just focus on enjoying the process and connecting with your partner, children, and the joy of anticipating your little one’s arrival.

At Renee V Photography, we’re here to make sure you have a stress-free and memorable experience, from start to finish. I can’t wait to help you capture these magical moments and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!

If you have any other questions or need help preparing, feel free to reach out—I’m always here to guide you every step of the way!