Planning your maternity photoshoot in South Essex
Thinking of booking a maternity photo shoot but are not sure where to begin? Here is a little look into the process…
PICK A LOCATION
Wild and barefooted at a beachy location, nestled in long grass, or lounging in a wooded glen. All perfect places to capture some soulful intimate pictures surrounded by the freedom of nature. I am more than happy to location scout that perfect spot for your session if you have a particular vision in mind. Alternatively, if you are feeling a little more vulnerable, come to my home studio it has a neutral aesthetic with natural linens, earthy tones, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
A couple of my favorite locations near to Southend-On-Sea are:
Hadleigh country park - Easy to access and such a huge variety of landscapes from a small woodland to the castle itself and rolling hills. (LINK) we can stay in one area or if you are up to it can wander to different spots throughout the park.
https://www.visitessex.com/things-to-do/hadleigh-country-park-p1268301
Shoebury East beach - perfect for a sunrise session when it’s usually empty, if the tide is in there is a little spot that the tide does not reach, a rocky area, a tidal pool, and sand dunes which make a beautiful backdrop. A bonus is easy access to parking.
https://www.visitsouthend.co.uk/venue/shoebury-east-beach/
Want something a little more creative?
Styled sessions are my absolute jam, they allow you to get truly stunning natural pictures with a little nod of an editorial vibe. Let me take the reins and plan something that looks truly magical, my goal in all these sessions is not for the styling to distract from yourself or the surroundings but add a little interest to the scene. Some ideas I have floating about are :
Portraits on A floating bed of flowers
A simple relaxed picnic setup
Bed on the beach.
Ice cream parlor session
White sheet backdrop amongst the trees.
PLAN YOUR OUTFITS -THE KEY PIECES I RECOMMEND ARE:
1) A maxi dress/skirt, something that flows and creates movement will always look beautiful.
2) An oversized shirt or robe - so versatile, they can be unbuttoned and left open to show a little skin, as well as layered up.
3) A bra-let and bottoms or bikini /bodysuit that allows you to cover up if you feel you need it, whilst still showing your bump.
4) A oversized knit if we are outside
5) Your skin. I want you to see your body and be empowered by it.
Please remember I am always on hand for styling advice and offer pieces for you to use from my client closet at no extra cost.
All neutral and earthy colours work best in the environments I have sessions in and ensure your images do not date, for all those future feels.
THE DAY OF YOUR SESSION:
What is the one thing you love to spend time on just for you?
Whether that is reading a book in a bath with candles, taking a walk and soaking up the fresh air, yoga, etc.. whatever your sacred "you" time looks like, make time for it if possible before your session. This way you will turn up relaxed and feeling your best self. If you have arranged to get your hair and makeup done, I always advise asking for a natural dewy look with loose waves for your hair, so that you don’t look out of place in an outside location or overly ‘done’.
All that is left is for you to enjoy the session and soak up this special time. I will gently prompt you to encourage natural posing and genuine connection throughout your session. No awkwardness here!
As with all sessions outside the best time for your photoshoot is early morning just after the sun rises or an hour or two before sunset. This ensures that the light is diffuse and at its most flattering, whilst also having the benefit of being quieter, allowing us more freedom to roam without worrying about others milling into the frame!
Ready to book in?
Whether this is your first or fifth child, the magic of motherhood never gets old and this time deserves to be captured in the most beautiful way.
I can’t wait to meet you,
Emily x
Maternity Sessions
To find about more about the sessions I offer click below .
