Model Call – Maternity Session Guide

Embarking on the journey of motherhood is a transformative experience, one that deserves to be celebrated and captured beautifully. Planning your MODEL CALL maternity photo shoot can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with the right mindset and preparation, we can create stunning memories that will last a lifetime.  Here are some tips to help you prepare for a captivating day in front of my camera!

WARDROBE & STYLING

I will pick out some dresses or fabrics that I would like to use in your shoot. It can be a mixture of styles or just one style, all is possible and I will decide what to use accordingly to your questionnaire that you return before the shoot.

While the photographer usually establishes the parameters for a model call shoot, I invite you to bring a selection of your favorite outfits that you love and want to feature in 1-2  photos. I’m excited to capture 1-2 beautiful images with your personal clothing if that appeals to you. Just keep in mind that all photos taken during this session, including those with your attire, will be subject to the terms of the Model Release Form.

Ideas what suitable cloths you could bring:

  • Bodysuit that shows of your belly
  • A classic Button Down Shirt (almost all of us have one in our closets. Or you could also use one from your partner)
  • Demin (if you can still fit into your non-maternity jeans – unbuttoned of course!)
  • Use a non-maternity outfit that still fits (dresses, gowns, skirts, tops, blouses, cardigan, …)
  • Cotton sports bra, or a crop top
  • different bras (please see separate paragraph)

It is essential that all the garments you bring are ironed. The reason for this is that any wrinkles present will often stand out in photographs, detracting from the overall appearance and beauty of the images.

What NOT to bring

  • Don’t wear thin, closely spaced stripes or other small patterns, as they can create a ‘moire’ effect in photographs.
  • Don’t wear small plaid or buffalo patterns, particularly in high-contrast colours, can also appear strange in images.
  • Don’t wear large logos, cartoon designs, or text on clothing – its distracting in the photo.
  • Don’t wear excessive dark colours, which can render photos lifeless; black should normally be limited to pants.
  • Don’t wear neon colours as they can cast unflattering hues on the skin, so it’s best to skip them.

If you’re considering purchasing a new outfit for your Model Call Maternity Shoot, there are several options to explore. You could look into online retailers that specialize in maternity dresses or versatile clothing suitable for pregnancy. Keep in mind that some stores suggested below are based overseas, which could affect shipping cost and delivery time to Australia. Ensure that your chosen outfit arrives well before the shoot day to avoid any last-minute stress.

Online Shops Australia

Angel Maternity

The Boho Shed

The Pure Boho

Coven and Co

Daughters of India

 

Online Shops International

Baltic Born

Etsy

ZeBuBeYou

Pink Blush

Aliexpress

Club London

UNDERWARE OPTIONS

Bring underwear options, especially in neutral colours. Nude underwear works best as it remains invisible under dark, white, and even sheer fabrics. Brown, beige, black and white underwear can also complement specific outfits beautifully.

ACCESSOIRES

Here are some options that could be used in a maternity shoot.

  • A stylish hat
  • A distinctive piece of jewelry
  • When maternity shoot I like to shoot bare food but statement shoes can also be a highlight
  • A bouquet, flower crown, tiara, delicate headbands, elegant clips/pins

If you have some of it feel free to bring it and we will see if we can use it.

 

HAIR

Choosing the perfect hairstyle for your maternity photo shoot is a wonderful way to honor and showcase your journey into motherhood. Although a Model Call Shooting, I would like you to choose your hair style for the day. Please select from the different options beneath. 

It’s a great idea to consider having your hair styled by a professional. However, if you prefer to do it yourself, please make sure to practice beforehand. There are plenty of helpful tutorial videos available online that can guide you in creating a stunning look for your special day.

Some hairstyles that complement maternity shoots beautifully include:

**Soft Curls**
Soft curls radiate a timeless elegance, making them an excellent choice for maternity photoshoots. This hairstyle introduces a hint of romance to your look, framing your face with gentle, flowing waves. Soft waves suit all hair lengths and pair beautifully with a variety of outfits, from breezy dresses to fitted maternity gowns.

**Romantic Updo**
For a more refined and sophisticated look, consider opting for a romantic updo. This hairstyle can vary from a loose, tousled bun to a detailed braided design. An updo not only highlights your face but also conveys a sense of elegance and poise. It’s an ideal choice for showcasing earrings or accentuating a delicate neckline.

**Half-Up, Half-Down**
The half-up, half-down hairstyle strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and casual charm. This style is particularly flattering, as it keeps hair away from the face while allowing soft strands to frame it beautifully. You can enhance the cascading section with loose curls or waves for an effortlessly feminine touch.

**Natural and Flowing**
Embrace your natural texture by letting your hair flow freely for a relaxed and genuine look. Whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight, allowing it to fall naturally creates a beautifully candid and effortless appearance.

**High-Fashion Hair Cut**
The right High-Fashion haircut can transform a look completely, embodying the essence of creativity and boldness.  Whether you aim for boldness, softness, or vintage glamour, each cut speaks volumes about the aesthetic you’re aiming to portray.

**Loose braids or twists**
Loose braids or twists elegantly frame your face while adding lovely texture. Bohemian styles, like fishtail or waterfall braids, offer a trendy yet relaxed feel, keeping your hair stylishly in place.

MAKEUP

Makeup will add a huge amount of self-love to the experience and plays a crucial role in enhancing your maternity photography experience. It not only complements your natural beauty but also interacts beautifully with lighting and angles, ensuring you look radiant in every frame.

A professional makeup artist can be an excellent choice if you want to indulge and feel pampered before your session. After all, a maternity photoshoot is an opportunity to relax, unwind, and embrace your beauty.

Whether you decide to hire a professional makeup artist or take the DIY route, there are effective strategies to achieve a stunning, camera-ready look.

DIY Makeup Tips for a Flawless Look:

  1. Begin with skin preparation, as well-hydrated skin serves as the foundation for a flawless makeup application. Use a quality moisturizer and primer to create a smooth base that lasts.
  2. Opt for a lightweight foundation that offers medium coverage and matches your skin tone seamlessly. Heavy foundations can appear cakey under bright lights, so aim for a natural finish that enhances your complexion.
  3. For your eyes, choose soft, neutral shades instead of bold, dark colours. Define your lashes with mascara or apply natural-looking false lashes for extra pop without overpowering your look.
  4. Finally, select a long-lasting lip colour in nude or soft tone which complements most maternity outfits and keeps the focus on you.

Remember that the goal is to feel comfortable and confident in your skin, so choose makeup that reflects your personal style while ensuring you look radiant in your maternity photos.

It’s always beneficial to do a trial run for makeup and hair to ensure everything looks perfect on the big day. 🙂

HANDS AND FEET

Most of the time, hands and feet end up being seen on your maternity photos, so feel free to go all the way in the pampering & self-love: treat yourself with a mani-pedi before getting your motherhood portraits taken.

SKIN PREPERATION

Bring your favourite body oil. Body oil creates a beautiful skin texture with the studio lighting and might be part of our shooting if you wish.

DRINK AND SNACK

Please bring a drink and a snack. Modeling can be tiring at times, and a little energy boost helps maintain focus. After eating just make sure that you don’t have food stuck in between your teeth. My camera sees everything, unfortunately also those unpleasant food bits while smiling 😉   I have a mirror here where you can check after eating.

YOUR MATERNITY PHOTO SHOOT CHECKLIST

  • If you like: Please bring your favourite maternity outfits (such as Button Down Shirt, Demin, non maternity outfit that still fits, cardigan, sports bra, crop top, …)
  • Please bring different underwear (best a set of nude/black and white ones)
  • If you like: Please bring accessoires/shoes
  • Please get your legs/armpits shaved
  • Please have hair and Make up well done
  • Please have well groomed fingernails & toenails
  • Please bring water and if needed a snack for in between