How to Prepare for Your Maternity Photoshoot
Getting ready for your very first maternity photoshoot? Congratulations!
Whether it takes place at home, outdoors, or in a studio,
here are some tips to help you make the most of your session.
For all information regarding my session rates, please check here.
At-Home Photoshoot
If your session will be at home, it’s the perfect setting for cozy and natural images.
It can also help you feel more comfortable, especially if it’s your very first photoshoot.
Before the session, make sure to:
- Tidy up the rooms that will be photographed
- Identify the brightest spaces in your home at the time of the shoot
- Choose clean and simple décor for the areas used
- Dress the bed with white sheets (if you have them) for a fresh, soft look
For clothing:
- Prepare 2 to 3 different outfits (full look)
- A beautiful lingerie set (if you’d like some intimate shots)
- A loose shirt, kimono, or cover-up to wear over lingerie if desired
- Comfortable “homewear” outfits also photograph really well
- In general choose loose, aerial or oversized fabrics rather than rigid materials : they tend to look much more flattering on camera
Outdoor Photoshoot
When the weather is nice, an outdoor session is a wonderful option.
It allows for soft, natural photos and the chance to play with daylight beautifully.
Before the session, try to pick a location with these qualities:
- A park, wheat field, garden, or green open space
- Bright and spacious
- Not too crowded
- Easily accessible by car
For clothing:
- Two to three different styled outfits (dress, pants & sweater, overalls, etc.)
- A beautiful lingerie set (if you’d like some intimate shots)
- A loose shirt, sheer kimono, or cover-up to wear over lingerie if desired
- Flowy, bohemian-inspired pieces work wonderfully outdoors: wide cuts, airy fabrics and natural styles
I also have some favorite outdoor locations around Brussels where I love to photograph maternity and family sessions. Feel free to ask if you’d like to plan your shoot in one of those spots.
Studio Photoshoot
Want a more modern, editorial, or artistic look? A studio session is ideal.
My studio is located in Forest : a large, versatile space with plenty of options for creative set-ups. I also have all the props and accessories needed to create a variety of moods.
What's included:
- Two different styled outfits
- A beautiful lingerie set (if you’d like some intimate shots)
- A loose shirt, sheer kimono, or cover-up to wear over lingerie if desired
- “Tomboy chic” styles work especially well here: oversized suits, loose shirts, baggy jeans, etc.
Please note: studio sessions require an additional fee for the rental. If you’re interested in booking a studio shoot, just get in touch for more details.
FAQ
1. A bit about me
I'm a portrait photographer specialized in fashion and lifestyle photography.
I like to capture my subjects in an authentic and spontaneous way to give my photos a natural spirit without artifice.
My style of photography is joyful and lively with soft and authentic colors.
I like to work in a relaxed and caring atmosphere, always with a bit of laughter.
I am a sociable and optimistic person, who likes to make her subjects feel very comfortable during my shoots.
Photography is also for me a way to assert my very curious personality and to continuously make new encounters.
2. When should I do my maternity photoshoot?
For me a maternity photoshoot is typically best scheduled between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. However, every pregnancy is unique, so it's important to consider how you feel and any specific circumstances you may have. Ultimately, choose a time when you feel your best and can enjoy the experience.
3. How long does it take to receive the final edited images?
Between 2 and 3 weeks.
4. How do I prepare for a portrait session with you?
One week before the shooting I will send you a little reminder with some practical informations. In the meantime you can already read some information here.
5. How long is a maternity shoot?
For maternity shootings we will be shooting for at least one hour but it is best to count 1h30 in total.
6. Can I include my husband and/or kids in a maternity shoot?
Yes of course everybody is welcome to join! Most of the time we will split the session and do a first part only with the mother to have some nice pregnancy pictures, and the other hald we'll take some nice pictures with your boyfriend, husband or existing kids.
7. Where are you based and do you travel?
I'm Brussels based in Belgium and yes I love to travel! If you want me to photograph your story, it will require a travel fee, depending on where it takes place. Travels in between the 19 municipalities of Brussels are included in the packages prices and will not be additionally invoiced. If the shooting occurs in a wider range €0,75/KM VAT excl will be invoiced per KM.
8. Where do maternity/family shoots take place?
Pregnancy or maternity shootings often take place at your home. This allows me to enter more easily in your intimacy and to have the best pictures results.
If your home is not suitable, I will make suggestions of places where we can shoot together.
I also love to shoot outside, at sunrise or sunset when the light is wonderful. So if the weather is good and you're up for it, maybe we'll go for a walk!
9. How can I book a session?
You can either email me at info@lauralacourt.com or you can book your session directly online via the link below. No pre-payement is needed.
10. Do you have gift cards?
Yes, if you are giving a shoot as a gift, I will send you a downloadable gift card that you can print and personalize.
