Why I love maternity photography

Hi! I’m Angela, a photographer based in the Lower mainland and Vancouver area that specializes in maternity, family, and newborn photography.

Motherhood inspires me every day and is one of my favorite relationships to capture as a photographer. The relationship between a mother and child is so innocent and beautiful. Whether you are an expectant mom, a mother in the midst of the chaos that is motherhood, or a mother to grown children, these relationships shape us every day. Maternity photography sessions are some of my favorites. Not everyone’s journey to parenthood is an easy one, and I believe the miracle of motherhood should be celebrated.

Styling your maternity photography session

There are so many different styling options for your session. I am here to help you with any questions you may have regarding your maternity session outfits and styling. There is no right or wrong when it comes to the feel of your session. Whether you are looking to be casual and cozy, boho, or formal, I can help you put it all together. The first step is deciding what look you are drawn to.

You can also visit my Angela K Photography Styling Pinterest board for some inspiration.

Hair, makeup, and the little details

Many people decide to get their hair and makeup done professionally, but this is not essential. When choosing your makeup, aim to look like your everyday self, just a little more polished, or if you wish, glam it up! This session is about celebrating you and the beautiful life that you are creating.

I personally prefer it when client’s hair is down or partially down during sessions. This allows for the movement that I love to capture and the feeling that is adds to an image. That does not mean that you won’t be absolutely stunning if you come in an up do!

Your hands will be in many of the images, including close-up shots accentuating your baby bump, so be sure to give them a little bit of tlc before your session (this goes for the guys as well). I suggest neutral colors as to not take away from your bump!

Accessories

Accessories can add so much to your images. If you have a hat that you love, or some beautiful or sentimental jewelry, be sure to bring them along. Adding interest with textures such as layering cardigans, shawls, scarfs, or kimonos can also be beautiful and really adds to your look. Don’t be afraid to bring more than one option 🙂

Flowers can also be a nice addition. Whether it is a bouquet or a flower in your hair, florals can add a boho feel. I offer a small selection of dried bouquets to my clients and can guide you on where to purchase a beautiful live bouquet.

***Be sure to wear appropriate undergarments.*** Nude coloured undergarments often work best. Bra straps should not be visible if possible and will not be removed in post processing. Strapless bras work for some dresses, but the lower-cut dresses will require sticky cups (without the middle piece). Amazon has some great sticky bra cup options if your outfit requires it. I have these ones that I love! I also have a selection of nude slips that I offer which work well with many of my client closet dresses. It is also a good idea to wear loose fitting clothing before your session and to remove elastic bands on wrists to avoid pressure lines and marks.

If you plan on having some exposed belly shots (which I love!), be sure to wear undergarments that you love such as pretty matching lace bra and underwear set, or simple nude undergarments. You will have these images for a lifetime, so investing in appropriate undergarments is important.

Shoes will be visible during your session so please choose footwear that you will be happy to have in your images. I usually suggest flats or block heels as high heels are difficult to move in and will get stuck in the ground. Aim for neutrals such as nude tones, browns, or tones that match your outfit. Pure white or colourful/sparkly shoes will draw your attention towards your feet which we generally try to avoid. Even a simple pair of flip flops, or going barefoot works!

Tips for your partner and family

Although your bump will be the main focus of the session, your family and partner are a huge part of this special time in your lives. Once you choose your outfit, you can style your family or partner around it. Choose complementary tones without ‘matching. You can add interest with texture such as lace or add a little pattern! You can send me your ideas and I can help to guide you 🙂

Men, please do not wear your every day runners! The bright colors on many runners are distracting in photos. Dress shoes or dressy runners only please. And don’t forget to add layers such as a nice sweater or jacket. Avoid logos or pictures on shirts and jackets as these can also be distracting. These photos are an investment, so don’t be afraid to invest in your outfit too 🙂

For more tips on styling your family for your maternity session, check out my blog posts linked below.

I offer a wide selection of dresses and accessories for my clients to use. I carry a collection ranging from formal gowns, to sundresses, dried florals, kimonos, hats, and cardigans. Many of the options work for for both maternity and non and are available in a variety of sizes. Sizing and availability is available upon request. If you want to show a little bit of skin, or have a few bare belly shots, let me know! We can chat about your comfort level and your vision and I can guide you on some beautiful outfit options 🙂

Clients of Angela K Photography | Vancouver maternity photographer

I offer a wide selection of dresses and accessories for my clients to use. I carry a collection ranging from formal gowns, to sundresses, dried florals, kimonos, hats, and cardigans. Many of the options work for for both maternity and non and are available in a variety of sizes. Sizing and availability is available upon request. If you want to show a little bit of skin, or have a few bare belly shots, let me know! We can chat about your comfort level and your vision and I can guide you on some beautiful outfit options 🙂 I am always here to help you select your outfits, so please feel free to send me your ideas!

My favorite stores for maternity clothing and rentals

The first thing to remember when it comes to buying a maternity dress is, many non-maternity dresses can work beautifully as a maternity dress! You may have to size up depending on your stage of pregnancy, but many flowy dresses are bump-friendly. Look for flowy dresses with elastic or tie waists. Be aware of where the waist falls. Empire waist or wrap dresses work perfectly, or try a top with a flowy skirt! Below is a list of some of my favorite stores to purchase bump-friendly dresses.

Zara

Baltic Born

H & M

Pink Blush Maternity (really fast delivery!)

Piper & Scoot

Lulus

Asos

Joyfolie

Vici Dolls (longer delivery)

Roolee

Plenty (There is one in Coquitlam Center)

Rentals:

Reclamation makes beautiful vintage lace dresses designed in Victoria BC. (each dress is unique, dresses on this site are only examples). If you are interested in a Reclamation dress rental, you can contact me for more details. These rentals are about $100 on average.

(I have a few reclamation gowns in my client closet as well 🙂 )

Inquire for more details!

Extra tips to prepare for your maternity session

Tips to prepare (family focused but also applies to maternity)

What to wear (family focused but many tips apply!)

I am always here to help so please don’t hesitate to ask me any questions that you may have! You can contact me any time at: info@angela-k-photography.ca

I can’t wait to work with you!