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A Surprise Maternity Photo Shoot
I was so thrilled when I received the sweetest email in February from this client’s husband, Peter inquiring about a maternity portraits for his wife, Nicole. He explained that they were expecting their second child, and that Nicole was about 26 weeks along. During her first pregnancy she had done a maternity session that unfortunately ended up being a really unpleasant experience. Honestly, hearing that broke my heart a little.
He told me he felt like she deserved a second chance at the experience, and wanted to surprise her with a session that would make her feel truly special this time around. As a Clifton NJ maternity photographer I wanted to make sure she had an amazing experience from start to finish.
Check out all the details on my NJ maternity photography page!
Planning a Luxury Maternity Photography Experience
After talking through all the options together, Peter decided to book my Signature Maternity Package, which is my most popular maternity session. It includes two looks from my client closet, a longer session with more variety, sibling and partner portraits if desired, and the option to add on professional hair and makeup.
He opted to add on hair and makeup for Nicole, which I always think is such a wonderful choice for expecting moms. Not only does it help you look polished for pictures, but it also gives you a chance to slow down, relax, and truly feel taken care of before your session even begins. My hair and makeup artist comes directly to the studio, and I coordinate everything so you don’t need to stress about a thing. All you need to do is show up and enjoy the experience.
Personal Details for the Photo Shoot
Once Peter looped Nicole in on the surprise session, I was able to start coordinating everything with her directly. She told me that she cried when she found out about the sweet gesture from her husband. A few weeks before her maternity session, I sent over my client closet so she could browse through all the options and choose the looks she felt most excited about wearing.
She also mentioned wanting to incorporate a faux floral hair piece that was native to her home country. I absolutely loved that idea. Most maternity photographers encourage clients to bring meaningful touches into their sessions whenever possible because it makes the images feel even more personal and unique to their story.
“I had such a lovely experience with Stephanie as my maternity shoot photographer! She and her makeup artist went out of their way to make me feel comfortable. The photos came out so beautifully and my family and I will treasure these photos forever. Thank you, Stephanie!”
Studio Maternity Photos and Family Portraits Near Clifton, NJ
I usually offer the option to include family photography and children photography, but Peter decided not to join the session in order to allow Nicole to have the spotlight. So we focused entirely on celebrating Nicole and this beautiful season of motherhood. Before the session, she sent me an inspiration image featuring a simple neutral backdrop, soft white flowy material, and beautiful glowing backlight. It had such an elegant and timeless feel to it, and I was so excited to recreate something inspired by it while still making it feel unique to her.
Check out more information on my maternity photography packages
Soft White Fabric Maternity Portraits
We started the session with soft silky white fabric from Chicaboo that wrapped delicately around her bump. The way the light filtered around her created such a dreamy, ethereal look. We played with several pose variations throughout this setup, including some with Nicole looking directly at the camera and others where she softly looked off into the distance. We also incorporated standing poses along with some lying on her side to create more variety throughout her final gallery. These looks are some of my favorites from her gallery.
Mauve Gown Maternity Photos
Afterward, we transitioned into a silky mauve gown from my client closet that photographed beautifully on her. The material flowed so gracefully with every movement and highlighted her bump perfectly. The soft mauve tones paired beautifully with the lighting and gave the images such a romantic and feminine feel.
Ready to book your maternity session? Contact me
A Neutral Editorial Look
For her final look, Nicole changed into a neutral beige off-the-shoulder gown that gave the session a more timeless and editorial feel. The simplicity of the dress allowed the focus to remain entirely on her while the soft folds and textures added just enough movement and elegance to the images.
One of my favorite parts of the entire session was watching her slowly become more comfortable and confident as we continued shooting.
A Better Experience the Second Time
Knowing that Nicole’s first maternity experience left her feeling disappointed honestly stayed in the back of my mind throughout the entire process.
By the end of the session, seeing how happy she was while looking through a few previews on the back of my camera reminded me exactly why I love what I do so much.
During the maternity session, we can also talk through what to expect once your baby arrives, from simple newborn care to planning newborn photography that feels just as calm, personal, and relaxed.
Looking For A Clifton NJ Maternity or Newborn Photographer?
One of my favorite parts of being a newborn maternity photographer is seeing families before birth and then meeting the baby later for newborn portrait. If you’re looking for a maternity photographer or a Clifton NJ newborn photographer who offers a calm, guided, full-service experience, I would absolutely love to help you create something beautiful for your growing family.
My maternity, newborn family sessions include access to my curated client closet, posing guidance throughout the entire session, optional professional hair and makeup, and a relaxed experience designed to help expecting moms feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.
Contact me today to start planning a custom maternity session designed just for you and your family!
