Yay! You have decided to schedule a Maternity Session! This is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate a special chapter of your life as you await your little one’s arrival. As your Raleigh maternity photographer, my goal is to ensure you feel comfortable, confident, and radiant throughout your session. To help you prepare for your Raleigh maternity session, I’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know. From what to wear to how to feel your best in front of the camera, you’ll feel prepared for your session.

This guide contains everything you need to know to make the most of our time together and help me create the photos you’re dreaming of. It also answers most of my clients’ questions about what happens next: selecting an outfit, what to know for the day of your session, after your session, etc. If you have a question that isn’t covered in this guide, please email me. I’m happy to answer anything. I promise, NOTHING will surprise me and there likely won’t be a scenario that I haven’t come across already.

If your Maternity session is taking place on-location or outdoors instead of the studio, preparation will be slightly different. All details will be shared within the emails leading up to the day of your session!

So without further ado… let’s start to prepare for your Raleigh maternity session!

When to Schedule Your Raleigh Maternity Session

The best time to schedule your maternity portraits is between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, your baby bump is beautifully round and prominent, but you’re still feeling comfortable enough to pose and move with ease.

If you’re expecting twins or multiples, I recommend scheduling your session a bit earlier (around 26-30 weeks) since your belly may be more pronounced sooner.

If you haven’t booked yet and you’re further along—don’t worry! I can still create stunning portraits that celebrate your pregnancy at any stage.

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Step One: What to Wear for Your Raleigh Maternity Session

Choosing the right outfit plays a huge role in how your portraits turn out. For maternity portraits, simple and timeless attire works best. I recommend classic pieces in white, neutral, or soft tones. Access to my client wardrobe is included with your session. Here you’ll find a selection of beautifully curated outfits designed specifically for these special portraits.

Avoid busy patterns, logos, or bright colors, as they can distract from the simplicity and elegance of the portrait. When selecting outfits, you want to think of how you are going to display your photos. Where will you hang them? If you have colors you incorporate often into your home, be sure to select outfits that will compliment your space.

Here are a few more tips to figure out what to wear for your maternity photos:

• Flowy Dresses & Fitted Gowns: Soft, flowy fabrics create movement, while fitted dresses beautifully highlight your growing bump.
• Neutral & Earthy Tones: Soft neutrals, pastels, and warm earthy tones photograph beautifully in natural light and create a classic look.
• Simple & Elegant Pieces: Avoid bold patterns, logos, or bright colors that may take attention away from you.
• Client Wardrobe: I offer a carefully curated client wardrobe with stunning gowns, dresses, and fabrics designed specifically for maternity portraits. If you need help choosing the perfect look, I’m happy to assist!
• Including your family members: I recommend coordinating outfits with neutral and simple color palettes. Soft earth tones, whites, and pastels photograph beautifully and allow the connection between your family to be the focus.

Looking for some inspiration? Check out a few of my favorite online storefronts:

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Step Two: The Days Leading up to your Raleigh Maternity Session

Taking a little time for self-care before your Raleigh maternity session can make all the difference. One of the simplest ways is by staying hydrated and moisturizing in the days leading up to your photoshoot.

Since your hands will often be featured in close-up belly shots, I recommend neutral or bare nails to maintain a timeless and elegant look. Soft, natural tones like nude, light pink, or a classic French manicure photograph beautifully and keep the focus on the connection between you and your baby.

Many moms-to-be also choose to pamper themselves with professional hair and makeup before their maternity session. Having your hair styled and makeup professionally done not only enhances your features on camera but also gives you an extra confidence boost. I offer professional styling options for those who would like a stress-free experience, or you can schedule an appointment with your trusted stylist before your session. A soft, natural makeup look and lightly styled waves or an elegant updo can beautifully compliment your maternity gown and create a polished, timeless look.

Finally, one of the most important ways to prepare is simply to get plenty of rest the night before your session. A good night’s sleep will help you feel refreshed, relaxed, and ready to enjoy the experience. Feeling well-rested will allow you to be fully present and embrace the moment with joy and confidence.

Taking these small steps ahead of time will help ensure that you look and feel incredible as you prepare for your Raleigh maternity session, creating images you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

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Step Three: The Day of Your Raleigh Maternity Session

Including Your Partner & Children

Maternity portraits are not just about celebrating your journey—they are about capturing the deep love, excitement, and anticipation that surrounds your growing family. Including your partner or children in your Raleigh maternity session can make the experience even more meaningful, creating images that tell the full story of this special chapter in your life.

If older siblings are joining the session, making the experience fun and engaging is key to capturing their most natural smiles and interactions. Bringing a small snack, a favorite toy, or a comfort item can help keep little ones happy and involved throughout the session. I create a relaxed, playful atmosphere so that children feel comfortable, ensuring we capture those sweet, candid moments that reflect their genuine excitement about welcoming a new sibling.

During the session, I’ll guide you through natural and heartfelt poses that showcase the love between you, your partner, and your children. Whether it’s a tender embrace with your spouse, an older sibling placing their hands on your belly, or a quiet moment of reflection, I’ll ensure that every pose feels authentic and meaningful. My goal is to document the deep bond and joy that comes with growing your family, preserving these moments in a way that you’ll cherish for generations to come.

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Step Four: After Your Raleigh Maternity Session

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As always, please contact me with any questions you may have as you prepare for your Raleigh Maternity Session! I am looking forward to seeing you soon.