MATERNITY SESSION PREP GUIDE
You will never regret capturing these moments - the ones before you become a mama, and the ones when baby has arrived. It's fleeting, but it's so special. It's your first chapter of motherhood.
This page is a hub for all of the details, styling and prep for your experience with Next Chapter Studio.
Thank you for letting me be a small part in this beautiful time for you.
THIS CHAPTER, DOCUMENTED.
Booking your session
The best time to take maternity photos is between 28 and 32 weeks. By this point, you are showing but you’re not yet in the final stretch. We can aim for an even earlier time frame for moms expecting twins or having complications.
I recommend booking your session early and reaching out to me in the first trimester. That gives us plenty of time to dream up a location, coordinate outfits and prepare all the details for your session.
Styling
1. Coordinate, don't match
Choose a coordinating palette and dress everyone in shades of the palette.
2. Neutral & muted colors
Whites, creams, tans, browns and pastels photograph beautifully. Say no to neon and logos!
3. Flowy and flattering
Choose outfits that flow with movement and accentuate your bump. Dresses are ideal for this because they’re comfortable and create that soft, feminine look. If you’re not a dress person, consider a fitted top paired with a skirt or relaxed pants.
4. Mix it up with a fun look
For your second outfit, we can always change it up. Ideas to try include a suit jacket, lounge set or other ideas.
5. Texture and accessories add so much
Mixing up fabrics and layering are great ways to add some dimension to your photos. Hats, jewelry and fun accessories can always be added in to some shots.
What you wear truly matters when it comes to your maternity session. The right outfit can make you feel comfortable, confident and completely yourself - which always shows in photos. The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and look cohesive. We’ll talk ahead of time to make sure you feel confident and relaxed.
Client Closet
Tips for Mamas
Partners' looks just need to be clean, comfortable and coordinated. I recommend neutral button-downs, henleys and knit sweaters. Pair tops like these with jeans or khakis!. Click here to see a Pinterest board with outfit inspo.
Tips for Partners
If children are joining the session, choose soft fabrics in complementary tones. Try linen rompers, textured knits or neutral basics. Click here to see a Pinterest board with outfit inspo.
Tips for Kids
color palette
EASY TO COORDINATE
Think about it: You are trying to color coordinate outfits for you and your family. It is so much trickier to match color hues than it is to match neutrals and one pop of color.
TIMELESS & FLATTERING
Even when trends change, neutrals will always be in style. You want to look at your photographs and see the connections, not the distracting clothing.
DISPLAYING THE PHOTOGRAPHS
No matter what your home decor is or what color the nursery is, neutral tones in your photographs will always be perfect to display - they will go with everything!
Why neutrals?
Find styling and outfit inspiration on Next Chapter's Pinterest board here:
Find pieces hand picked by Ty on Next Chapter's Amazon storefront here:
Recommended places to shop: Worth Collective, Baltic Born, Amazon, Pink Blush
Day of your session
- Your outfits
- Shoes (If it's a studio session, please pack the shoes for the session in a separate bag to change into)
- Small touch-up items: hair brush, lipstick
- Any sentimental items you’d like included: baby shoes, ultrasound photo, heirlooms
What to bring:
Find maternity session inspiration on Next Chapter's Pinterest board here:
frequently
asked
QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES A SESSION INCLUDE?
Each session includes a questionnaire, full access to the Client Closet + this prep guide with styling tips and a professional online gallery of your digital images.
WHERE IS YOUR STUDIO?
It is located in Hudson Falls, NY. The studios are over 1,500 square feet - with multiple rooms, furniture and setup options, 12 foot ceilings and backdrops.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY IMAGES?
Your entire gallery will be delivered to you within 7-10 days of your session through an online gallery. There, you can favorite, download and share any images.
CAN YOU HELP ME WITH STYLING?
Absolutely! I would love to. During the planning process, we can chat about outfits, look at some inspiration for ideas and take a look at the Client Closet.
introducing the
location list
not sure where to have your session?
check it out
Finding a location for your session can sometimes be tricky. So, I created a Location List to make it a bit easier. Now that we are planning your session, we can take a look at this list if you are unsure of where we should go. This list includes spots in various towns, with photo examples and helpful info.
Instagrammin'
Head on over and follow me on Instagram for a look at sessions, styling & everything in between.
