How to Prepare for Your Maternity Session by Cincinnati by Cincinnati's Best Maternity Photographer Tracie Jean Photo

We’ve thought of everything so that you don’t have to! Here are 10 steps to having the best maternity session ever!

Get your nails done! We’ll be focusing so much attention on your belly during your maternity session. Your hands will be a focal point as well. Please check out our nail guide to choose a style that will lend to the softness and ethereal look we’ll be creating in your session. Choosing overly bright or distinct colors can distract and draw attention away from your beautiful belly. So, we’ll try to keep them very neutral for best results.
Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydration will be key in the days leading up to your shoot and on the day of. We know how much you’re likely already visiting the facilities but the key to glowing skin is proper hydration. In the days leading up to your session, take note of your water intake and just pump it up a little bit.
Hair and Makeup. You will absolutely want to have your hair and makeup look created by a professional. If you’re using one of our studio hair and makeup artists, we’ve got you totally covered. If you’re choosing someone outside of the studio, please be certain to choose a makeup artist that is familiar with photo-ready makeup. Be aware that we will be throwing a lot of light in your direction during your shoot so what may seem like a lot of makeup to the eye, will likely be just right for a photoshoot!
Skip the lotion. Feel free to slather yourself with lotion to keep your skin supple and shiny on most any day. We do ask that you skip the lotion on the day of your session, especially on your belly. Lotion can cause lighting hot spots on the belly during your shoot so, as soon as we’re done you can feel free to lotion right up!
Accessories. Bring your favorite jewlery, heels, hats, scarves, undergarments or anything sentimental. We have all the gowns and are happy to consult on which shoes and jewelry or accessories to include with any one of our gowns that you’ve chosen for your session.
Undergarments. Grab both a black and a nude bra and panty for your shoot. If you have a strapless nude bra they tend to come in very handy. If you’re looking for any boudoir-style maternity images feel free to also bring a matching set of any color you’d like for those shots.
Arrive early. Please leave a little buffer time to get to your session. Running late causes so much stress and we want you to be at your very happiest while we’re photographing you. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early so that we can review our session plan together and get started shooting on time. You’ll be so glad you did!
Relax. Let us take care of everything. Come in and just take a deep breath! We’ve got you!

We have a wide variety of gowns from many designers for our pregnant mamas to choose from including fitted, flowing, lace, chiffon, tulle and so much more! Schedule your consultation via Zoom to walk through the most amazing and easy booking experience. Your session is waiting…

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VIEW TRACIE’S MATERNITY PORTFOLIO HERE

Thanks to the ever inspirational Katharina Hakaj and Sew Trendy Accessories for making the most BOMB gowns!

A giant shoutout to Olympus Imaging America for the honor of making Tracie a Visionary in their sponsorship program and for making amazing gear that Tracie loves to use. Also, thanks to Profoto for the best lighting in the industry and for choosing Tracie to be a Legend of Light in their sponsorship program.