Maternity information guide


We’re thrilled to have you here for your maternity portrait session. Whether you’re capturing a special milestone, celebrating a new chapter of your life, and creating beautiful memories. We’re dedicated to making your session unforgettable.


Photographer Kris is an expert at bringing out the unique personalities and connections. From candid moments to posed portraits, we’ll work together to create stunning images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.


A couple shares an intimate moment in a golden field with bare trees at sunset while dressed in green and dark formal wear.

Editorial & Fine Art Photography


Capturing light, feelings, 

moments & all the things in between.


  • Warm Welcome: Kris will greet you and make you feel comfortable. We want you to relax and enjoy the experience!
  • Location: Whether it’s a scenic outdoor spot or your own home. We’ll choose a location that suits your family’s style and preferences.
  • Posing and Direction: Don’t worry about knowing how to pose! We’ll guide you through natural and flattering poses that showcase your family’s love and connection.
  • Candid Moments: Some of the best shots happen when you’re simply being yourselves. We’ll capture those genuine smiles, laughter, and interactions.
  • Outfit Tips: If you haven’t already, consider coordinating your outfits. Elegant cocktail attire, cozy sweaters, or matching holiday colors can add a special touch. More tips are below.
  • Props and Personalization: Feel free to bring any props or sentimental items that represent your family. Maybe it’s a favorite book, a cherished toy, or even your pet!
  • Editing and Delivery: After the session will be edited and enhance your photos. You’ll receive a gallery of high-quality images to choose from.


What should I wear for my

Maternity Pictures?


  • Flowy, Sheer Dresses: I always recommend clients wear long, flowing dresses that have a sheer fabric element. The flowing fabric is great for catching the ocean breeze and creating movement in your images. The sheer fabric allows the sunlight to filter through and add a gorgeous glow.
  • Hair and makeup done
  • Manicure your hands will be photographed.
  • Jewelry, necklace bracelet


  • Search Trams for shopping: maternity shoot dress ideas, maternity dresses for photoshoot


  • Dress: Chicboo, Amazon, Mama Bump Rentals, Balticborn, SHEN
  • Seamless Maternity Shapewear - AMAZON. This will give you bump support.
  • Solid Pastel or Neutral Colors: I recommend wear pastel or light neutral colors to the beach, especially for maternity. Strong patterns or bright colors can often distract from the bump, and I want to keep the focus on you and your baby bump rather than the outfit.
  • Comfortable Footwear: More than likely you will be barefoot on the beach, however, I always recommend my couples bring some comfy and stylish sandals to wear for the walk down to the beach.
  • My Favorite Sandal Shops: Steve Madden | J. Crew | Altar'd State | REEF
  • Bring Layers: It almost always gets cold and windy at the beach around sunset. A beautiful cardigan, shawl, jacket, or sweater, can look stylish and keep you warm during your session!
  • Bring a jug of water to rinse your feet before you get in the car.


Pinterest board



Props to bring ideas


  • Sonogram or due date sign
  • Baby shoes
  • Baby's first outfit
  • Shoes
  • Stuffed animal or blanket

Outfit Ideas for the whole Family

Outfit Ideas for Dad

  • Casual and Fitted:
  • Linen Pants and Button-Down Shirt: I love the idea of dads in classic linen pants in a neutral color (beige, tan, or white) paired with a light-colored button-down shirt. This combination is both casual and polished.
  • Polo Shirts and Tailored Shorts: For a more relaxed vibe, choose a fitted polo shirt and tailored shorts in coordinating colors.
  • Color Coordination:
  • Neutral and Pastel Colors: Coordinate with the family by choosing colors that complement each other. Neutrals like white, beige, and light blue work well with pastel tones.
  • Complementary Shades: Ensure Dad's outfit doesn't clash with the family's attire. For example, if Mom wears a pastel dress, Dad can wear a soft blue or light grey shirt.
  • Style Tips:
  • Avoid Bold Logos or Graphics: Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns. Bold logos or graphics can be distracting in photos and take away from moms glow.


Outfit Ideas for Older Siblings

  • Mirroring Parents’ Style and Color:
  • Girls: Flowy dresses or skirts in soft pastel colors that complement Mom's outfit. Pair with a light cardigan if needed.
  • Boys: Linen pants or tailored shorts with a button-down shirt or polo shirt in colors that coordinate with Dad’s outfit.
  • Comfortable Clothing:
  • Choose soft, breathable fabrics that allow for easy movement and play.
  • Consider adding layers that can be easily removed or added, like a lightweight sweater or vest.
  • Involve Older Children:
  • Let them pick from a selection of pre-approved outfits to give them a sense of ownership and excitement about the photoshoot.
  • Encourage them to choose accessories like hats or headbands that they like, as long as they match the overall theme.

4 Tips for your Maternity Photos



#1 plAN enough time for hair and makeup

  • Have your hair, nails, and makeup done. It will help your photos look beautiful.
  • Plan extra time to get your hair and makeup done while getting ready.
  • Natural or light: false eyelashes can make a big difference in your makeup routine. Getting that romantic song feel to your makeup.
  • WOW hair products can add professional-grade volume and texture to your hair when you are styling it. Link



#2 Coordinate Outfits Thoughtfully

  • Harmonize Colors: Choose a color palette that complements each other. You don’t need to match exactly, but coordinating tones creates a cohesive look. For example, consider earthy tones like warm browns, soft blues, or muted greens. These colors work well together and evoke a sense of harmony.
  • Avoid Busy Patterns: Large prints or busy patterns can distract from the faces in the photo. Opt for solid colors or subtle textures.

NOTE: If someone is wearing a pattern (like stripes or florals), balance it out by having others wear simpler, solid-colored outfits. Pick colors from the pattern to coordinate everyone's outfit.

  • Layers: Add depth and visual interest to photos. Consider scarves, jackets, or hats.
  • Accessories: Hat, scarf, necklaces, bracelets, or a stylish belt can enhance the overall look.

NOTE: Remember, it’s the small details that matter and contribute to a polished appearance. Big Note: Only one person can wear a hat. Otherwise, it's so busy.

  • Comfort Matters: Ensure everyone feels comfortable in their chosen outfits. If someone is uncomfortable, it will show in the photos.
  • Shoes: If you are planning on wearing heels, bring a spare pair of shoes to walk from location to location so you don't get your heels stuck in the dirt.

#3 TELL your family your expectations and how excited you are ABOUT family photos

  • Authentic Moments: I believe in capturing the real essence of your family—the laughter, the love, and the unique connections you share. Let’s be ourselves, and I’ll ensure those candid moments shine through.
  • Time Together: Our session will be a time to bond, laugh, and create memories. Leave any stress behind; we’re here to have fun!
  • Beautiful Portraits: My goal is to create timeless portraits that reflect your family’s personality. From the littlest giggles to the warmest hugs, every detail matters.


#4 Relax & Be Yourselves

  • It's important to relax and be yourself during the family portraits. Having fun with your children and loved ones, cracking jokes, and making silly faces. When capturing an editorial and journalistic portrait, it's important to let your personality shine through. But relaxing and being yourself this will naturally come out, and you will cherish your images for generations.


Barefoot Sunset color palette by Mint Mountain Media featuring pink, terracotta, gold, sage green, and teal swatches with hex codes.
Wedding color palette featuring soft blue, beige, cream, peach, salmon, light orange, mint, and olive green swatches from Coolors.
Pregnant woman wearing a rust orange long sleeve maternity gown with deep V-neck and front slit.
A color palette featuring eucalyptus, rain, latte, coral, peach, and cream tones with nature-inspired swatches.
Coastal color palette with five swatches: Skyline, Deep Ocean, Greenery, Cliffside, and Shadows, displayed over a scenic ocean cliff.

Planning Ahead


Timing Matters

Parking: Plan 10 minutes before the session to get parked.

Golden Hour: The hour before sunset (or after sunrise) provides soft, warm light. It’s ideal for dreamy photos.


Epic Beach Photos

The dramatic coastline is a photographer's dream, but capturing its full beauty requires understanding the ebb and flow of the tides. High tide brings crashing waves and dramatic scenes, while low tide reveals hidden coves and tide pools, offering unique photographic opportunities.

Plan to get your feet wet, and be sure to bring a jug of water to rinse your feet off at the car.



Snacks and drinks for children

Have some snacks and drinks ready for the kids as reward pictures.

Before the Session, snacks and drinks to AVOID

🚫 Red drinks and candy

🚫 Chocolate

🚫 Ice cream and smoothies

🚫 any fresh berries

Leave for AFTER the portrait session as a reward.


Before the Session, snacks and drinks that are OK

✅ Clear juice, water, or sodas

✅ Veggie straws, corn chips, or potato chips

✅ Fresh fruits and vegetables. Dried fruit

✅ Cheetos

*anything that will not STAIN there Outfit or Hands before the session.


Maternity PHOTO PREP Checklist!


  1. ⬜️ Hair
  2. ⬜️ Nail
  3. ⬜️ Makeup
  4. ⬜️ Plan out your outfits and accessories
  5. ⬜️ Let the kids know what’s happening - "We're getting pictures on (day of the week and day of session)." "I'm super excited to have pretty pictures of you on the wall, and we need to give one to Grandma and Grandpa."
  6. ⬜️ Preparing your spouse for portraits. - Let your spouse know how important these photos are to you. Remind them what the photos are for.
  7. ⬜️ Water to rinse your feet off
  8. ⬜️ Snack for the children for doing a good job at the session. (You give this after we are all done)