PREPARING FOR YOUR ON-LOCATION MATERNITY SESSION
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It’s that memorable time in your lives, the beauty of the body’s changing form and the bond shared between parents that I want to capture.
Pregnancy is different for everybody and the style of session will be chosen depending on how you feel.
If you’d like to include the whole tribe then we can hit the great outdoors and enjoy open spaces and a relaxed session which is perfect for children who like to play and roam.
This type of session is also suitable for camera-shy fathers and teens.
My on-location sessions are usually hosted at Redgate Beach Witchcliffe or The Rivermouth Margaret River.
Forest locations are also an option and I have a number of beautiful places to choose from in the area.
If a softer, more intimate and calmer session is preferred, I work in studio which is a gentle and private space for you, your partner and children.
WHAT TO WEAR
Keep in mind your location of choice when choosing outfits for your session.
If we’re heading to the beach then shoes are not needed. Dress for movement and play and be prepared to get a little wet, especially when older siblings are involved.
Flowy, light coloured dresses are both flattering and comfortable and light neutral colours are always a winning combination. Fitted dresses look great as they hug your body in all the right places, just be sure that there is a little stretch in the fabric so you can move freely; especially if you have small children joining us as I have no doubt you’ll be required to pick them up at some point.
Seam-free underwear is recommended if you choose to wear a fitted outfit.
Shorts and t-shirts for boys; including dad and a dress/skirt and top for the girls.
Kick off your shoes and feel the sand and water between your toes.
Be mindful that there’s a possibility it will be windy and your hairstyle may be compromised - which I must add, I love! I work with the wind and highly recommend that you let your hair down [both literally and figuratively] and embrace it.
If you’re open to ending up in the water at the end, wear your bathers under your outfit, I LOVE finishing the session with a little fun in the water - children absolutely shine in these moments.
If we’re heading to the forest, shoes/boots are recommended.
Work with coordinating outfits with similar and complimentary colours.
tip: avoid wearing green as it can blend in with the surroundings and also wash out your skin tone.
Jeans/pants may be a more suitable option for the boys in the cooler months.
We will sit on logs that may be damp and/or charred, children can climb, collect leaves and explore.
This is a little ‘dirtier’ option than the beach but equally just as fun!
If it’s a cool day, beanies, jackets and boots are always encouraged to add an element of interest and story telling to your images. I have a Pinterest board that can be helpful for outfit inspiration - here.
*I also have a small collection of gowns in my client wardrobe that you’re welcome to borrow. Please feel free to get in touch prior to your session to organise a gown and plan your families outfits to suit . I’m always happy to help with this.
WHAT TO BRING
Nothing. Just yourselves! Less is most definitely more.
We don’t travel too far from the carparks so if water is needed mid-session, its easy enough to pop back for a quick drink.
At the beach, leave your shoes in the car or kick them off at the steps, you really don’t need them.
If you’re bringing phones, keys, glasses - please pop them into my camera bag so they don’t show up on your head or in your pocket.
If you’re unsure of the weather, you’re welcome to bring a jacket and/or blanket to wrap yourselves in.
Make sure children are well fed and watered prior to your session.
If we’re heading to the beach locations mentioned above there are toilets on site however please keep in mind that the forest doesn't have toilets. There is a public toilet located in Witchcliffe townsite which is usually on the way to the forests we use.
PREPARING FOR YOUR STUDIO MATERNITY SESSION
WHAT TO WEAR
Studio sessions are simplistic and timeless.
Some outfit options for mum can be:
A soft flowy dress
Underwear and an unbuttoned oversized shirt
Underwear and a snuggly knit cardigan
Oversized jeans unbuttoned with a bra/crop with the option to throw over a knit cardigan or unbuttoned shirt
A ‘shorts & t-shirt’ set that can be unbuttoned to reveal your tummy
Comfy loose pants and a fitted singlet
If choosing to be photographed in underwear, please choose a new matching set in a neutral colour like white, beige or black; it can be as simple or detailed as you like.
Please email through your outfit choices so I can prepare the space with my backdrops in advance.
Dad & siblings; simple, neutral outfits are recommended.
For Dad, a light t-shirt or shirt, plain chinos or chino shorts, jeans or comfy slacks. Please leave all shoes at the door.
Kids; the same applies, keep it simple with similar colours to dad, lighter shades of greys, blues & pinks, with contrasting yet complimentary items.
Dressy hats and watches are welcome but please leave your caps and smart watches at home. I have a Pinterest board for outfit inspiration here that you may find helpful.
*I also have a small collection of gowns in my client wardrobe that you’re welcome to borrow. Please feel free to get in touch prior to your session to organise a gown and plan your families outfits to suit . I’m always happy to help with this.
WHAT TO BRING
The studio has everything you need. Tea and coffee is provided, there is comfort in every corner and a small collection of maternity outfits to choose from.
If bringing children, please only bring a water bottle if they can not drink from a cup. Leave snacks, devices and toys in the car for after the session. Sessions are typically short and sweet, however we do have a tv if we need to keep them occupied towards the end of the session.
There is no need to bring a change of clothes [except for babies incase of accidents] or any shoes -this is a barefoot studio to protect the condition of my backdrops- so please only wear thongs/slides and leave them at the door.
Arrive dressed and ready for a seamless session. The anticipation and excitement with small people is short lived so I like to get into the session as soon as possible.
If coming alone of just with your partner, be dressed and ready on arrival, your’e welcome to bring another outfit option if you wish to, or utilise the studios collection. Please discuss this prior to your session.
Dressy watches and hats welcome, please leave caps and smart watches at home.
If you have any questions, please sing out!
xo Holly