Preparing For Your Session

 I typically recommend scheduling your session between 32-36 weeks, when your belly bump is full but you are still comfortable and not too swollen. You want to feel your best and this is definitely a time to treat yourself. I suggest scheduling professional hair and makeup appointments in advance. To ensure availability with your hairstylist and makeup artist. A fresh hairstyle and a professional makeup application goes a long way when being photographed. I will link my preferred makeup artist below. I also suggest getting a manicure and pedicure the day or two before your shoot. With neutral nail colors; something fresh and light. We want your images to feel classic and timeless.

I do offer maternity gowns if needed. If you will be providing your own gown; long flowy gowns, and open necklines are generally very flattering. Undergarments - a lot of maternity dresses are made of very stretchy fabric (to show off your bump) so please pay attention to bra and panty lines. A well-fitted bra and supportive shape- wear will make whatever you wear look even better. I do have a few expecting moms that decide against the more traditional maternity gown and opt for something more casual or fun. That’s completely up to you. I am always open to different/fun session ideas. It’s very important to me that you are comfortable.

What To Wear for the Family

As you think about your color palette, imagine your family being one complete piece of artwork. Each person/outfit will bring together a feeling of formality and coordination. Instead of everyone wearing the same shade of blue - think about what accent colors might look nice with said blue.

Dress from head to toe. No scuffed sneakers for boys, but fun shoes like Converse, "boat" shoes, or boots. Same for girls, no Dora crocs, but more traditional Mary Janes or boots work best! Again, think coordinating without matching perfectly. Dads, instead of defaulting to a plain ole polo - look for fun colors, stripes, plaids. Texture photographs amazingly. Get creative!

Click here to view my Family Wardrobe Ideas Pinterest board.

Click here to view available MATERNITY GOWNS.

MAKEUP ARTIST

For great results and to alleviate your worry, hire a professional makeup artist for your photo shoot to ensure you look your best and most confident self during your photo session.

My three go to makeup artist I’ve worked with and loved. Flawless work, personable and have great energy!

Torei The MUA

Website:https://toreithemua.as.me/schedule.php

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torei_the_mua/

Krysta Medley

Website: https://www.kcmedleymakeup.com/home

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcmedleymua

Whitney Elise

Website: https://whitneyelisebeauty.as.me/schedule.php

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneyelisebeauty/

LOCATIONS

A few of my favorite places I love to photograph families are Uptown Charlotte, local parks or nature preserves. I am also open to locations of your choice.

Studio (Charlotte, NC)

The perfect lighting and controlled temperature. No matter the weather.

Nature Preserve (Charlotte/Near Huntersville)

Lots of greenery in the spring and summer. Gorgeous colors in the fall.

Uptown Charlotte

There’s a lot of nice spots to photograph uptown to get that city feel. Uptown Charlotte is great because there is still lots of flowers and greenery in the spring, summer and fall.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Looking forward to meeting with you!