choosing the perfect time, location, outfit & more!
maternity session
planning your
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Second, you can showcase your personalities in an outdoor setting that is significant to the two of you (and even include pets!). While they’re great for baby shower invitations or pregnancy announcements, we’ve taken maternity photos anywhere from 28 weeks to 38 weeks of pregnancy.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to planning a session and since we get asked the same things over and over again, we thought it would be the most beneficial if we put together a guide that walks you through everything you need to know.
We’ll cover what to wear, whether to bring pets & how to manage them, location ideas and more!
I am so excited to be working with you and can’t wait for our time together during your maternity session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having photos taken - and I do this for a living!
I'm a big fan of maternity sessions for a few reasons. First, they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera. It takes time for most couples and kiddos to warm up to being photographed and understand how to pose. The studio can also be an overwhelming place for littles, so it helps if they meet me before the newborn session too! For parents it's nice to get to know the person you'll be handing your brand new baby over to in advance, and it helps to get comfortable with each other!
Welcome
We get it. Having your picture taken for 1-2 hours might not be in your top-10 favorite things to do during your downtime. And at first you might feel sort of awkward being in front of the camera.
But I think you’ll find that by the end of the session, it’s a lot easier than you thought, and you even had a little fun. I look forward to it because it’s a great opportunity for us all to hang out a bit before you're sleep deprived with a newborn!
The dads
A NOTE TO
Maternity sessions can take place anywhere from pregnancy announcement to days before birth. We’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. We normally plan sessions based on your due date, however. Typically clients choose to schedule their maternity photos for a time between 28 and 34 weeks pregnant.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when when we can—we love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. We prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
We 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 we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
"GOOD" TIME TO TAKE PHOTOS?
Time & Light: is there a
check sunset times
We base your session date based on how far along you are in your pregnancy, and depending on the weather we can plan a few fun things to incorporate the season!
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Seasons
If you’re planning to take your pregnancy photos during the winter, keep in mind that if your session takes place in the evening, we could begin shooting as early as 2:30pm to catch the sunset. We recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running.
snowfall, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
Even though Spring begins in March, we typically don’t begin shooting for another 6 weeks because the weather in Oklahoma is still pretty chilly and flowers aren't blooming yet. When we schedule spring dates, we typically schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date because... ya know... naders....
fresh flowers and sunny days
Spring
In spite of the heat, we’re big fans of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you’re taking your maternity photos during the summer, we recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session.
warm sunshine and long evening shadows
Summer
Fall is one of the prettiest times of the year and because of the perfect weather, our schedules typically book up quickly! If you find yourself needing a fall maternity session, we recommend scheduling it as soon as possible!
colorful leaves and snuggling close
Fall
Mount Scott
Turner Falls*
Robber's Cave
Broken Bow State Park*
Eureka Springs
ADVENTURE
The Barn at the Woods*
Growing Paynes Farm*
Bluff Creek Park
Hafer Park
Sutton Wilderness Park
RUSTIC
The above locations are all beautiful but we also love exploring meaningful locations with our couples!
*admission or permit fees may apply
Lake Hefner
South Canadian River
water
Paseo Arts District
Downtown OKC
Downtown Rooftop
Will Rogers Garden
Myriad Botanical Gardens
Crystal Bridge*
URBAN
garden
Devon Boathouse
State Capitol
Skirvin Hotel*
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
The best session locations are often meaningful places to the couple; however, we’re also happy to make recommendations. From open fields to manicured gardens to apple picking and sandy beaches, the options for maternity session locations are endless!
moore, norman & okc maternity LOCATIONS
Locations
While we take most of our maternity sessions in the Oklahoma City area, we’ve photographed sessions all over the state and in Texas and Arkansas. If you have a location in mind that is significant to the two of you, let us know because if our schedules align, we might be able to take your engagement photos outside of our normal area.
Travel fees may apply depending on the location and our availability.
maternity sessions
destination
We love when couples choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location.
We recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then either dropping them off or having a friend take them home. We won’t use the pet in every single photo so it’s also nice to have a friend available to hold him or her in between shots.
If you’re going to bring a pet, we recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot.
Pets
When picking outfits we recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the dad-to-be is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the mom-to-be may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
Generally families pick two outfits for a maternity session: a more formal outfit and a casual outfit. We recommend saving your favorite outfit for later in the session, when families and children 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.
TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
Outfits
on to the next
When picking outfits we recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if the groom is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the bride may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout your attire. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
And always keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a green field, light green dresses might blend in too much with the surroundings.
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
on to the next
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
We love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. We love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
shop my PRIME favorites
on to the next
Able
Zara
Mango
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
H&M
Vici Dolls
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
for the ladies
We think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years. This is why all PBA Maternity Clients are given complimentary professional hair and makeup with their maternity session!
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you go this route, we recommend staying a bit “classic”. Now probably isn’t the best time to try out that new contouring technique you saw on TikTok.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
on to the next
You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Wardrobe
for the gents
on to the next
Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
shop my PRIME favorites
It’s typical for us to schedule two session dates: a primary date and a rain date. Having two dates helps us make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. Coordinating schedules can be tough and we’ve found that the best way to make sure our families get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule two dates at the same time.
We’ll check in the week of your session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. We know it takes a lot of time to get ready for engagement 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 the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, we typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
what to do if it rains
Inclement Weather
If you’re planning to bring props to your session, we recommend including them only if they’re meaningful to you.
Photos drinking coffee at a local coffee shop would be cute if that’s where you met or if coffee shops play a significant role in your relationship; however, trying to fly a kite together when it’s not a part of your relationship may come off as contrived.
Easy props to consider bringing may include an ultrasound photo, baby booties, a letter board, etc.
props?
should we bring
When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! We’ll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If we tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because we know it’s going to make you laugh - and that’s the photo we’re actually looking for.
Throughout your session, we’ll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. We want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"what do I do with my hands?"
posing
A note on
As soon as your session is complete, we’ll schedule your Ordering Appointment. It normally takes about 10 business days to edit your soft-proofed images. Unless we have a holiday closure, you can expect to see your photos at your Ordering Appointment between 10 and 14 days after your session.
At this appointment you'll have the opportunity to place an order for wall art, an album, or a collection.
what happens next
view the product catalog
We know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your maternity session! However if there is something we missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email
ashleigh@photobyashleigh.co