Maternity portraits capture an important milestone in your family's life. With this in mind, I don't just show up and click photos. I style your session, working with you ahead of your session to design images that match your aesthetic and reflect who you are.
There are are a few steps that contribute to this process and I thought it was a good idea to have a chat about styling your session, what you need to know and what I can offer. Just as an fyi, how I style maternity sessions also applies to all sessions with Novabella Studio and, when you book, I will be asking the same sorts of questions.
Step One: our first conversation
When you get in touch with me, one of the first things we will do is establish the location of your maternity session – will it be on location or in the studio? If it is on location, where? Do you want beach vibes or greenery? And, one key questions will be: if your session is on location, how comfortable do you feel about having a little bit of an audience?
Your preferred location will set the foundation for the aesthetics of your session. In studio, I lean towards either painterly style portraits (think Rembrandt paintings/dark and moody) or fashion inspired shots with white backdrops and harder light.
If you are considering a session on location for your maternity session, then we will need to consider the light – which will be an important character in creating your preferred vibes. The best time of day is golden hour - as the sun sets to create a soft wraparound light.
We will go through all those points in your first call to ensure we are both on the same page and so I can style the session of your dreams. I also encourage you to look at my own portfolio, as well as other images online, to develop the style of your session (Pintrest boards are great!).
Step Two: Wardrobe Consultation
Ahead of your maternity session, I will have you come into the studio to plan out your session and go through my client wardrobe. At Novabella Studio, there is an inclusive size range available. I will have you select three dresses for each maternity session. This is a very personal choice and it depends a lot on what you are comfortable with. Your dress selection will also be influenced by whether your session will be on location or in the studio.
During the wardrobe consultation, we will go through the different styling options for your session based on the dresses you choose. This includes the colour and type of backdrop, props etc.
Everything will be discussed during your consultation and this is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Step Three: On the day
Session styling will continue during your session. We will talk about what I have set up and make adjustments. I will also build the set up as we go (if the session is being held in the studio).
My goal is to have a clear plan and style in mind but to also go with the flow as we create magic.
Step Four: Editing
A large part of the magic is done long after your session is over. While I have a particular style of editing, I try and ensure it matches the vibes of your session.
So, if your session was taken on the beach during the golden hour, I will focus boost the warm light and ethereal feel.
