Your Maternity Session's Journey

What to expect & How to prepare
 When Is the Best Time for Maternity Photos?


Most maternity sessions are photographed between **28 and 34 weeks**, when your belly has a beautiful, rounded shape but you're hopefully still comfortable enough to enjoy your session.


Every pregnancy is different, though. Some moms show earlier, some later, and some simply feel more comfortable at a different stage.


If you're expecting twins or have been advised that your baby may arrive early, we may recommend scheduling your session a little sooner.


The most important thing is that **you feel comfortable and your beautiful bump is showing**.


It's also a good idea to book your session ahead of time. This gives us plenty of time to talk about your ideas, outfits, styling, and the type of photographs you'd like.





Maternity Photography: What to Expect & How to Prepare


Pregnancy is one of those incredible seasons of life that seems to last forever while you're living through it—and then somehow feels like it went by in the blink of an eye.


Your body is changing, your family is growing, and you're preparing to meet someone who will change your world forever.


A maternity photography session is a beautiful way to pause for a little while and capture this chapter before your baby arrives.


At BarnDoor Studio, we want your maternity session to be relaxed, comfortable, and all about celebrating **you and the little life you're carrying**. If you've never had professional photographs taken before, you may be wondering what to wear, how to do your hair and makeup, when to book your session, or even what you're supposed to do in front of the camera.


Don't worry—we've got you!


Here's everything you need to know before your maternity session.



What Should I Wear for My Maternity Session?


This is probably one of the first questions every mom asks!


We have an extensive selection of outfits but is always nice to have your own that you feel amazing in.


The answer is simple: **wear something that makes you feel beautiful.**


Maternity photography can be elegant and dramatic, soft and romantic, casual and natural—or a combination of all three.


Flowing maternity gowns are a popular choice because they create beautiful movement and photograph wonderfully. A fitted dress can show off your beautiful bump, while a simple outfit from your own closet can create photographs that feel more personal and true to you.


Soft neutrals such as cream, white, beige, taupe, brown, charcoal, and muted colours are timeless and photograph beautifully.


Textures such as lace, knit, linen, chiffon, and flowing fabrics can also add interest without taking attention away from you.


Try to avoid very busy patterns, large logos, neon colours, or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.


And if you aren't sure what to wear, we can help with our selection or just bring a few options!  We can look at everything together and decide what will work best.




Don't Forget About What You're Wearing Underneath


This little detail can make a big difference.


Tight bras, socks, leggings, or underwear can leave marks on your skin that may take a while to disappear.


On the day of your session, try to wear loose-fitting clothing whenever possible. A loose dress, oversized shirt, or comfortable robe is perfect.


For lighter-coloured outfits, nude or neutral undergarments are usually the safest choice.


If we're planning a more artistic maternity portrait, we'll discuss wardrobe options with you ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect.




Should You Have Your Hair and Makeup Done?


You absolutely can—and many moms love having this little bit of pampering before their session.


Professional hair and makeup aren't required, but they can make you feel extra special and give you that little boost of confidence when you step in front of the camera.


If you're doing your own makeup, consider going slightly more polished than your everyday look. Define your eyes, use a foundation that matches your skin well, and choose a lip colour that makes you feel comfortable.


For your hair, wear it in whatever style makes you feel most like yourself. Soft curls, straight hair, a loose updo, or even your natural style can all photograph beautifully.



You don't need to completely change your appearance for your photographs.


*You should still look like you.**





Take Care of Your Skin


The day before your session, give your skin a little extra attention.


Moisturize your arms, legs, hands, and belly as you normally would.


Try not to experiment with new skincare products immediately before your session, and avoid anything that could cause redness or irritation.


f you shave or remove body hair, do so in whatever way makes you comfortable—but don't feel that you need to do anything special just because you're having photographs taken.


Small temporary imperfections can be handled during professional retouching.




What About Your Partner and Children?


Maternity photographs don't have to be just about Mom.


Your partner and children are a huge part of this story too.


We can capture beautiful photographs of you on your own, but we can also include your partner, children, and even your pets.


Some of the most meaningful photographs are the simple ones—a partner's hand resting on your belly, a child listening for the baby, a little kiss, a family cuddle, or everyone simply laughing together.



f you have older children, don't worry if they aren't perfectly behaved.


**They're children!**


We aren't looking for perfect smiles in every photograph. Sometimes the silly, spontaneous moments become the photographs you love the most.





What Should You Bring?


You don't need to bring a suitcase full of things, but there are a few items that can add a personal touch.


Consider bringing:


  • A couple of outfit choices

  • A favourite maternity gown

  • Your ultrasound photograph

  • Tiny baby shoes

  • A special blanket

  • A family heirloom

  • A meaningful piece of jewellery

  • A special item you've purchased for your baby


These little details can help tell your family's story.

What Happens During the Session?


This is the part many people worry about—but you don't need to know how to pose!


When you arrive, we'll talk about what you'd like from your session and go over your outfit choices.


Then we'll guide you through the photographs.


We'll show you where to stand, where to place your hands, where to look, and how to move. You don't have to worry about looking awkward or wondering what you're supposed to do.


e'll create a variety of photographs, including beautiful portraits of Mom, close-up images of your belly, photographs with your partner and children, and natural moments between you and your family.


We'll also change things up throughout the session so you have a beautiful variety of images.


And if you