Photographing maternity sessions brings so much joy to me as a photographer. There are so many emotions leading up to welcoming your little one into your lives. And there is no better glow than that of a pregnant woman. Over the years of photographing maternity sessions in the Sacramento area, I have been asked a multitude of questions that I wanted to share the answers with you below.

1. What does “lifestyle photography” mean?

Lifestyle photography aims to capture authentic moments and connections. This means I will lightly pose and guide you into more natural interactions, rather than stiff poses where everyone smiles and says, “cheese” at the camera. Don’t worry, I will get those “everyone looking at the camera” shots, and then will focus on where the true magic happens!

For maternity sessions, this means capturing the relationship you have as a couple with movement, prompts and a visual range in the images. I like to get in close, capture photos of hands on the belly, pull back shots of you in the environment, and truly capture the emotions you have about welcoming your new little one into the world. 

2. What time do the sessions take place?

Depending on your location, outdoor sessions will take place during golden hour (the 1-1.5 hours before sunset), which means the time will change seasonally. For in-home sessions, the best time is typically mid-morning to noon.

The time of your session is optimized for the lighting, which is one of the most important elements to achieve the most flattering and magical images. 

I understand that depending on the time of year, this can mean later bedtimes if your little ones are included in the session. We will discuss tips and strategies to ensure a successful session!

3. When is the best time to book and schedule a maternity session?

The best time to reach out about a maternity session is as you enter the second trimester. I recommend scheduling maternity sessions around 28-32 weeks.

I have found that around this point in your pregnancy, you are still rocking the energy from the second trimester and have grown the most beautiful and photogenic baby bump.

I am booked approximately 2-4 months in advance, so it is best to inquire as soon as possible. If interested in a newborn session as well, we will tentatively schedule your newborn session for the estimated due date and then make adjustments once your baby arrives.

4. Will you help me pick out outfits?

This is one of my favorite parts! Your outfits and styling will 100% impact the feel of your session and your final images. I have a complimentary online styling platform that you will have access to, a client closet and will offer guidance and assistance as needed along the way.

I also like to get an overall vibe of your desired color palette and style from your questionnaire and will send you personalized e-mails with clickable links of outfit ideas. You can also view a blog post here about my favorite places to shop for maternity dresses.

And feel free to check out my Maternity Pinterest board too, as I have pinned inspirations for various types of seasons and sessions.

5. Do you charge a travel fee?

My Session Fee includes travel within a 75 mile radius of 95219. Any sessions scheduled outside of this radius will incur a $250 travel fee due prior to the session, which covers mileage/gas and the additional time to travel to the session. If you have an idea or special location to you that you’d like to have your session photographed, please let me know during your inquiry!

6. Do you specialize in studio maternity?

Studio maternity sessions seem to be very popular right now and are so beautiful! At this time, I am not offering studio maternity sessions. If that is something you are interested in, I would love to provide you with referrals for photographers that specialize in this and/or do a wonderful job. If you’re interested in an outdoor maternity or in home maternity session, I am your girl!

7. How does a maternity session work with a family?

When scheduling a maternity session as a family, I love to photograph all of the relationships and connections leading up to adding another member to your family. I love to capture you individually, as well as with your partner, your children and as a whole family.

8. I am interested in booking, what are my next steps?

Wonderful! The next step is to complete the inquiry form here. You will hear from me within 24-48 hours about my availability and scheduling your session date. From there, you will sign a contract and pay the session fee. This will secure your spot on my calendar and we will begin planning for your session. If you’re interested in booking a newborn session too, mention that in the inquiry to ensure your spot is held. Your second session fee will be waived as well!

Nicole is a Stockton, California based lifestyle, family photographer available for travel in the Sacramento area who specializes in authentically capturing the beautiful connection you share with your family. Nicole harnesses beautiful light in gorgeous locations to create an enjoyable session experience that showcases your family’s natural and joyful connections.

As a Marriage and Family Therapist and mother of three young children, Nicole prides herself on building lasting relationships and helping make you and your family feel comfortable in front of the camera. Nicole understands the importance of capturing these precious and fleeting moments as organically as possible to be valued for years to come. If you’re interested in booking your next lifestyle maternity session, you can do so by completing the form here.