MATERNITY session prep guide/questionnaire
first things first
My biggest goal for my photography clients is to create beautiful images of you and your belly safely and in the most comfortable of settings. I pride myself on creating a safe and beautiful place for my photography sessions.
preparing for your scheduled Maternity session
• Gowns – Please send us your maternity gown selection no later 48 business hours before your session so we can make sure everything is clean, wrinkle free and ready to go. We also base set-ups on what gowns are chosen so this helps with the creative process as well. Click here to view the Maternity Gown Collection. Please list your top 5 gowns below in order of preference (the number of gowns/looks included in your session are dependent on which session you booked, we just like to have backups available!)
• Location – All maternity sessions will be booked as STUDIO ONLY unless discussed in detail during the scheduling process. If you are booked for a studio session and want to possibly take a few photos in Mel’s outdoor area, make sure you mention this while scheduling since the timing of those sessions will be different and much more limited.
• Hair and makeup – We do not provide hair and makeup, however, we recommend Cotton Rouge & Company if you’d like to have yours done. We recommend hair down and natural with soft curls and makeup that makes you feel fabulous but still yourself. We are happy to discuss before your session.
• Undergarments – Nude undergarments are a must! A nude, seamless thong or panties is recommended. A supportive, nude bra is ideal, however we know most strapless bras are not super supportive, so a great fitting, nude regular bra will work as well—we can hide the straps or I can retouch them out. Girl, we gotta have those ta-tas at their perkiest!
• Shoes – Most of the gowns in my closet don’t show shoes, so usually barefoot is best in the studio but if you feel the need for a little lift, feel free to bring some heels. If on location, we can discuss, but comfortable and sturdy are probably your best option.
• Jewelry/Headwear – I have a few pieces you’re welcome to look at but most clients bring their own jewelry. I also have a few flower crowns, boho hats and headbands if that is something that interests you.
• Family Member Wardrobe – If you plan to include your partner or child (children) in your maternity session, I’m happy to provide wardrobe advice. I recommend picking 1 gowns for family pictures and then basing their wardrobe off that gown. I have a number of toddler sized dresses for girls. I recommend neutrals for family members since truly we are wanting to make mama shine! Feel free to send me images of outfits you’re considering.
• Please DO NOT COME TO YOUR SESSION IF ANYONE IN YOUR FAMILY IS SICK. Since you are coming into my home for your session, I do have to protect myself and my family. If anyone at home or if your child who is going to be photographed is under the weather AT ALL, please let me know and we can find a time to reschedule! Thank you so much for your understanding and respect in this matter.
What to expect during your session
• Upon arrival, we will look over the gowns, and make a plan.
• Classic Maternity sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. Petite Maternity Sessions are 30 minutes.
• If including family members – I recommend starting with partner/family pictures first to get that part out of the way (trust me, most partners and young children are happy to get their part done and out of the way at the beginning) then we can relax and focus on gorgeous bump photos!
Session do’s and don’t’s
• DON’T take pictures with your own camera or cell phone during the session. If you want to document the day, you or your partner can take a couple “behind the scenes” pictures of me working with you if you’d like, but please ask permission before sharing on social media. And please tag Dear Lissie Photography!!
• DO bring water! Hydration is key for feeling your best!
• DON’T forget that your remaining balance is due on the date of your session. I accept cash, checks, and Credit Cards (+ 3% processing fee). If for some reason you forget to bring a payment method (understandable—it’s not like you have anything going on in your life!) payment in full must be received before you will see any pictures from your session.
after your session
• Generally my turnaround time is 2-3 weeks.
• You will receive an email from me that will direct you to your password protected webpage proofing gallery where you can view the images from your session. In that email I will explain how to make your selections and move forward from there!
• Editing – Listen, I know that your body changes A LOT during pregnancy. Don’t fret! I will make you look FAB both by flattering posing during your session and editing after. I will edit out panty/bra lines, do a little nip/tucking where needed, and just add a little oomph! Your proof gallery will include one fully edited image from each set-up so you can see what your final selected image gallery will look like.
• PRINT YOUR PICTURES. I can’t tell you how many times I ask previous clients if they’ve printed their pictures and even a year later most of the time they sheepishly say, no, they haven’t. I am happy to take care of this for you. I have a ton of professional print products to offer and will send you a product price list with the link to view your gallery. If you do plan to print them on your own...please do not take them to a big box store. Have them printed professionally in Greenville at J&D photo or online at mpix.com.
Payment options
• I accept checks, cash and all major credit/debit cards (processing fee of 3% will be applied to all card transactions)
• SC sales tax of 6% will be applied to all post-session product purchases.
the Dear Lissie studio location
My studio is in my home. The address is 328 Henderson Road, Greenville, SC 29607. Upon arrival, please park in the circular driveway and text me, (number below) and I will come walk you in to the studio! I can’t wait to have you over!
questions?
Please don’t hesitate to text me at (864) 979-5278 or email me at mel@dearlissiephotography.com or Jen at jen@dearlissiephotography.com if you have any questions at all!