Can't wait to capture this beautiful chapter with you!

 

Maternity - prep guide

 

Thank you for choosing me to be your photographer


Hello, mama-to-be!


I'm so excited for our time together. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to feel calm, prepared, and completely yourself on session day. Grab a cuppa and have a read through — and don't forget to fill in your questionnaire (if you haven't already), so I know exactly what you're hoping to capture.

 

 

Planning your looks

 

 

You can have up to 3 looks, maybe consider just two if you have a large/busy family joining the session. If you haven't already and would like to try on anything from my client wardrobe beforehand, just message me — I'm always happy to arrange a time at the studio. If family is coming along, please decide everyone's outfits ahead of time and lay them out, clean and ready. Deciding on the day almost always leads to stress or decision fatigue, and I want you arriving feeling relaxed, not rushed.

 

Comfort tips


Avoid anything tight around your belly that leaves indent marks — give your skin an hour or so to settle before we shoot.

Wear the right underwear for your outfits.

If we're outdoors and you'd like to go barefoot for some shots, bring shoes that slip on and off easily.

Bring a cosy layer — a warm robe or comfy dress — to slip into the moment we wrap up. If you're borrowing a wardrobe piece, this is especially handy.

Sip water throughout the day and have a light snack beforehand — a happy, comfortable mama always photographs best.

Nails


Your hands will feature a lot cradling your bump, so give them a little love beforehand — smooth, chip-free nails go a long way in photos.

Hair & make up


If you have the time or skill, this is your moment to do your hair and makeup. At the very minimum, I'd suggest a little mascara and a swipe of lip balm — dry lips show up more than you'd think on camera! If you choose to book a hairdresser or makeup artist please mention to them this shoot is based on the weather incase you need to reschedule your appointment you can ask their policies.

Getting ready


Give yourself plenty of time to get ready so you're not racing the clock. The more relaxed you feel arriving, the more that shows in your photos. Once I arrive, let go of any to-do lists or stress — this is your time to simply be present with your bump (and your family, if they're joining).

 

Prep guide


Session location

 

 

Outdoor sunset

 

Your choice of Marlborough location

Please arrive on time and keep your phone on you in case I need to reach you. If you're late this will cut into your session time.


You are welcome to put your keys/phone in my camera bag & I'll bring along a bag for any clothes/changes that I can carry during the session.


If you have small kid/s perhaps a good idea to pack a spare nappy & a snack I can pop in my bag.


Pack spare clothes in your car something warm and comfortable for you to change into when we are finished up. Depending on location even a bottle of water and a towel incase you need to wash your feet.


Shoes - if we're at the beach I recommend shoes that slip on and off that can get wet and sandy. For all other locations shoes that are practical and match your look.

 

Home property

 

Your address

We will chat about where on the property we will start and finish the session so we have a plan for the shoot and also discuss what the best time of day for your session will be. Just make sure you're ready to go on my arrival. If we are starting inside no need to deep clean your whole house! Just tidy the specific spaces we'll use — bedrooms, lounge anywhere with a lovely natural window light. Beforehand, I may ask for a few photos, a quick video walkthrough. If we are heading outdoor for sunset I want to you to really take this opportunity to have fun, feel free and flow my prompts.  

 

Studio

 

Studio (Blenheim) 157 Alabama Road at Gray Floral

A small & cosy, indoor alternative — perfect no matter the weather. Just bring a bag with any extra underwear and outfits you'd like to wear.

 

Good to know


Weather & Rescheduling


Weather can be unpredictable, so here's how we handle it:


Overcast/cloudy: I may suggest starting 1–1.5 hours earlier to catch the best light.

Rain or strong wind: We'll postpone and find a new date together.


I'll always be in touch directly if I have concerns. I will contact you around 12pm midday on the day of the session to make any decisions.


Other reasons we may need to postpone:


+ Anyone attending the session is unwell

+ I'm unwell, or need to care for my son if he's under the weather

+ Extremely windy, rainy, or low-light conditions


We will postpone to the next mutually agreed date available.

 

Questions? I'm Here.
My inbox is always open — hello@augustluxe.com
On the day of your session, you can reach me directly on my cell: 0273585265

 

What happens next?!

 

step 01

 

Enjoy the session

The more you relax and enjoy the session by going with the flow the better the results will be! Remember gentle movement is key, I will guide the whole session so if you're feeling a little nervous about what to do please do not worry, I'm here to help.

STEP 02

 

4 weeks

Within 4 weeks after your session you will receive your online preview gallery to view and favourite your chosen images. (this is also when you can upgrade your package if you'd like). I will send full instruction on this process with your gallery.

STEP 03

 

Download, save & share

Once your final private online gallery is sent with a pin you have access to download, save and share. Please download and save to at least two places for safe keeping. Your gallery is online for 1 month and can be sent to your friends and family and has unlimited downloads.

STEP 04

 

Thank you

If you enjoyed your session with me, here are a couple of ways to support my business.


+ Leave me a google review

+ Recommend me to your friends

+ Tag me in any images shared online


Once again a massive thank you for choosing me to be your photographer.