Booking a motherhood photo session is an exciting opportunity to capture the beautiful, real moments of motherhood. Whether you’re preparing for a maternity shoot, documenting the early stages of motherhood with your newborn, or celebrating a special milestone with your children, these photos will become treasured keepsakes for years to come.
However, preparing for a motherhood session can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time having professional photos taken. You might be wondering what to wear, how to make the most of the experience, and how to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through practical tips to help you prepare for your motherhood photo session, making sure it’s a seamless and stress-free experience. With a little planning and thoughtful consideration, you’ll feel confident and ready to enjoy the process—and have beautiful photos to show for it!
1. Choose Your Outfits Thoughtfully
One of the first things that can help ease nerves about a motherhood photo session is choosing the right outfits. The right clothing can make you feel confident, comfortable, and look great in the photos. Here are a few tips for selecting the best wardrobe:
- Coordinate, Don’t Match: If you’re including your children in the photos, coordinate your outfits so they complement each other. Avoid overly matching outfits, as this can look too staged. Choose a color palette that feels natural—soft, neutral tones like cream, beige, and pastels are always a good choice, or you can add in a few pops of color for variety.
- Keep It Simple: Opt for simple, timeless outfits that won’t distract from the main focus of the photo: you and your family. Flowing dresses, skirts, or tops work well for mothers, and you can dress children in simple outfits that reflect their personalities without being too bold or busy.
- Comfort is Key: Remember that a motherhood session is about celebrating your connection with your children, so comfort is just as important as style. Choose clothing that allows you to move freely, whether that’s picking your child up, hugging them, or playing.
- Layers and Accessories: Adding layers, like a cardigan, jacket, or scarf, can add texture to your photos. Accessories like jewelry or a meaningful bracelet or pendant can personalize your look, but avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
- Consider the Session Theme: If you’re planning a more styled session (such as a “boho” or “vintage” theme), select outfits that reflect that aesthetic. Keep in mind that motherhood sessions often capture the real, tender moments of parenting, so your clothes should match the natural feel of the session.
2. Prep Your Hair and Makeup (But Keep It Natural)
For many moms, the idea of getting “camera-ready” can be stressful. But, rest assured, the goal is to look and feel like yourself—just the best version of you! Here are a few hair and makeup tips to help you feel confident and polished for your motherhood session:
- Go for a Natural Look: Keep makeup simple and fresh. Focus on enhancing your natural features rather than overdoing it. Light foundation, a touch of blush, and subtle eye makeup can go a long way in making you feel more confident without feeling “done up.”
- Hair Styling Tips: If you usually wear your hair down, a natural, effortless wave or curl can give you a soft, romantic look. If you prefer your hair up, consider a relaxed bun or loose braid for a more relaxed feel. Whatever you choose, avoid overly slick or tight hairstyles, as the goal is to look and feel comfortable.
- Don’t Overthink It: If you’re nervous about styling, don’t feel like you have to do anything drastic! The best photos often happen when you’re feeling at ease in your own skin. It’s your natural beauty that will shine through in these precious moments.
3. Prepare Your Children (If They’re Part of the Session)
If you’re including your children in your motherhood photo session, preparing them is just as important as preparing yourself. Here’s how you can help ensure the session goes smoothly:
- Explain the Session: Let your children know what to expect. Explain that you’re going to take some family pictures, and remind them that it’s about having fun and capturing special moments together. If they are old enough, talk to them about the types of poses or activities you’ll do during the session.
- Pack for Comfort: Bring along some snacks and drinks to keep your kids energized and happy. If your children are very young, be sure to bring along their favorite toys or blankets to make them feel more secure during the session.
- Timing is Everything: Plan the session around your children’s best time of day—ideally when they are well-rested and fed. Avoid scheduling it during nap time or when they’re usually cranky.
- Let Them Be Themselves: While you may want them to wear cute outfits, don’t pressure them to be too “posed.” Let them be playful, silly, or even a bit messy—that’s when the most authentic moments happen.
4. Relax and Have Fun!
One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a motherhood session is to set your expectations and allow yourself to relax. The photos will be more beautiful when you’re enjoying the experience and connecting with your children naturally.
- Embrace Imperfection: It’s easy to stress over every detail, but remember that this session is about documenting the real moments—the giggles, the hugs, the spontaneous interactions that make your family unique. The most treasured photos often happen when you’re not trying to pose perfectly but are simply enjoying your time together.
- Focus on the Connection: Don’t worry about the camera—focus on the love and bond you share with your children. Whether you’re playing, reading, or simply cuddling, these are the moments that will shine through in your photos.
- Trust Your Photographer: If you’re feeling nervous about being in front of the camera, trust your photographer to guide you through the process. They’re there to help you feel at ease, and they’ll direct you through flattering poses and natural interactions that showcase your family’s beauty.
5. What to Bring
- Sentimental Items: If there’s a special item that has meaning to your family—like a blanket, heirloom jewelry, or a cherished toy—bring it along. These items can add a personal touch to your photos.
- Makeup Touch-ups: Bring along any makeup for touch-ups (lipstick, powder) to keep you feeling fresh, especially if the session lasts a couple of hours.
- Hairbrush/Comb: A quick comb-through can help you freshen up in between shots.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for a Motherhood Session
Preparing for a motherhood photo session doesn’t have to be stressful! With the right mindset, planning, and a bit of organization, you’ll set the stage for a memorable and enjoyable experience. Remember, the goal is to have fun, feel comfortable, and create beautiful, authentic memories with your family.
By following these tips—selecting the right outfits, prepping your hair and makeup, preparing your children, and focusing on the connection you share—you’ll be ready for a seamless, rewarding photo session that captures the heart of motherhood in all its beauty.
