WELCOME TO YOUR
maternity photography EXPERIENCE
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HELLO and WELCOME! I am so excited for what's to come. I pour my heart into every single photo session, and I can't wait to have some fun with you, and capture some beautiful images.
My goal with this Welcome Guide is to help you prepare for your session and get the MOST out of your experience. This moment in your life is such an exciting memory and an investment…so it’s my job to be sure you are fully prepared. In this guide you will find everything from suggestions for outfits, hair and makeup, ways to customize your experience, what to expect the day of your session, how your final gallery will work and everything in between! Please take the time to read it thoroughly to ensure you have all of the information you need to make your shoot the absolute best it can be!
Use the content in this guide as suggestions, but feel free to reach out to me at any point in the planning process to chat about how we can make it personal to YOU and create images that you will look back on and love for years to come.
Can’t wait to see you!
MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE AT-A-GLANCE
There's a LOT of information in this guide! It's meant to make you feel fully prepared for your maternity photos, and answer any questions you may have leading up to photo day! However, it's not meant to overwhelm you, so if you're one who just wants high-level, you can stop right here. I will handle the rest.
after booking
- Read through your Welcome Guide
- Start thinking about your vision for your photos
- Think about your location vibe!
- Schedule hair and makeup if that's in your plan!
2-3 weeks before your session
- Complete and submit your Questionnaire
- Narrow down outfit options.
- Finalize your location.
1-2 weeks before your session
- Finalize outfits, including options from Client Wardrobe
- Angela will send session details including time, location flow, parking info.
2-3 days before your session
- Treat yourself to a mani / pedi
day before your session
- Steam or iron outfits
- Pack all outfits, accessories, touch-up items
- Get a good night's sleep!
session day
- Relax and get ready for a fun, peaceful experience!
- Be ready for some gentle posing guidance and movement
after your session
- Receive full gallery via email within 2 -3 weeks
- Explore your gallery store and work with Angela to create heirloom albums or artwork, if desired.
I'M ANGELA!
Now that we've gotten to know each other, let's dive into the good stuff!
Hi! I'm Angela—a photographer, huge travel lover, wife, and mom of 2 girls! I live in Linden Hills near the SW Minneapolis lakes with our family of four plus a tiny little goldendoodle, Bailey.
Before photography I was in the Marketing world at top Minneapolis corporations, then spent many years staying home with my little girls!
My style is bright, feminine, and effortlessly beautiful. I'm professional, yet laid back, and I love to make photography fun! People consistently tell me they love my photo sessions because I'm warm and genuine and they feel like they've known me for years!
in case we haven't met...
What to expect
Now that you are booked and things are officially official - let’s talk through the maternity photos experience, step-by-step! Your experience starts NOW, and I want you to know what’s around every corner as you begin to prep for your photo day!
01
Alongside this guide, you should have received a questionnaire to complete. This questionnaire will help me to get to know you, your style and your preferences so that I can create the best possible photo experience for you! Please take the time to fill it out thoroughly after reading through this guide - the more info you give me, the more I can customize your experience and be sure your images reflect YOU! But, finish reading this guide first…there’s helpful stuff in here!
the welcome guide & questionNaire
02
As we get closer to the day of your photo session, you can expect to hear from me with our meeting time, location and final check-in! If we chose an outdoor location, I photograph at “golden hour” - which is approximately 1.5 hours before sunset. We have likely already decided which time of day we will shoot! I like to wait until we are 1 week out from your shoot date to lock in an exact meeting time based on the time of the sunset and location we chose. If there are clouds or rain storms in the forecast, this also allows me to plan around the weather to ensure we get the best lighting possible!
If your maternity photos are in a studio, or in your home we typically will plan for a 10am start time. This is typically when the light is best in studio. If we are photographing in your home, we will discuss in detail which rooms of your home have the best light and determine final timing based on that.
03
your session day!
On the day of your session, know that it's normal to feel a little anxious! Your body feels different than normal and you might not think you're photo-ready at this moment, but don't worry! We will hang out, relax, and have some fun. Leave the posing to me, and it will be beautiful.
the week before
Who to include
You are definitely the star of the show! This is your time to shine, you are carrying a life inside of you - and you deserve to GLOW like you've never glowed before. Many women choose to be the sole participant in their maternity session, and it's amazing and beautiful!
Another frequently asked question is “who do I bring with me!?” And I suggest one of 4 options!
1) solo
If this isn't your first baby, it's extra special to include your other children in your maternity photos! Watching them kiss your belly, and just loving on your kids extra hard before their sibling arrives makes them feel so loved and special.
3) bring the kids
Obviously the two of you are creating something very special together, and it's fun to share that moment with each other. I love including your partner in maternity photos ~ it's a moment for just the two of you before your life changes (for the better!) forever.
2) you and your partner
Many couples are pregnant with their first child, but have been loving parents of "fur-babies" for many years. Including your dog in your maternity photos is a cute special touch, especially if you are taking them outdoors or in your home.
3) DON'T FORGET THE DOG
locations
Maternity photos are typically taken 1) In a studio, 2) In your home, 3) Outdoors. All are equally beautiful and special. It's important to think about the vibe you'd like your photos to portray. Are you thinking dreamy, flowy dress in a field? Then let's pick an outdoor option that fits this vibe! Do you like the clean, light-filled look of a studio? Perfect, let's do it! Do you like the idea of taking photos in your baby's nursery before he or she arrives? Then that's perfect for you, as long as there's good light!
Try to think of an overall “feel” or “vibe” for your shoot…and let this guide your location choices!
I have several posts on my Maternity blog that give you an inside look at some real maternity sessions - in a studio, outdoors, and one in their home. Take a look at these and see what resonates most with you! And you don't need to make this decision on your own - I'm here to guide you!
GET INSPIRED BY THE BLOG
LOCATION TYPES
Where we photograph your maternity session matters—it becomes part of the story you’ll look back on for years. Together, we’ll choose a location that feels meaningful, elegant, and perfectly suited to the way you want this season remembered.
studio
Studio maternity sessions are perfect if you love clean, timeless images with soft, beautiful light. I work with light-filled studios in Minnetonka, Minneapolis and Ramsey that are bright, airy, and neutral, creating an effortless, elegant backdrop for your photos. Studios are ideal if you want a polished look without worrying about weather, wind, or unpredictable light, and they offer a calm, comfortable environment where we can create a variety of stunning portraits with ease. We know you can consistently get light-filled images that you'll love!
in your home
An in-home maternity session is deeply personal and meaningful, especially in the nursery you’ve created for your baby. Photographing you in your own space allows your images to feel intimate, emotional, and uniquely yours, capturing not just how you look, but the feeling of this season of anticipation. With soft window light and familiar surroundings, your home becomes the perfect backdrop for images that feel warm, natural, and full of story. If you do choose to photograph in your home, it's important that you have a room full of windows and natural light to capture the aesthetic of the photo style you see in my portfolio!
outdoors
Outdoor maternity sessions are beautiful when Minnesota weather cooperates, offering soft sunsets, open skies, gardens, and natural landscapes that feel romantic and effortless. I have a variety of favorite outdoor locations to choose from, and I’m always happy to help you find a spot that matches your vision—whether you’re drawn to something full of flowers, or a sand to dip your toes in! If you’re unsure what fits your style, I’ll guide you toward a location that complements your vibe and the overall feeling you want your images to have.
explore the location guide
If outdoor is your vibe, I have guide full of some of my favorite tried and true outdoor locations across the Twin Cities area. You can browse through and see if anything sparks interest. Or I can choose a location for you!
Now for the most FUN part and hands-down the most frequently asked question: WHAT DO I WEAR!? Choosing what you will wear for your photoshoot is a huge decision but rest assured you don't have to make it alone! First off - I have a Client Wardrobe full of maternity-friendly dresses that look beautiful on camera, so if you find something you like BAM- you're done! If you'd rather choose your own outfit(s), then read on for some tips and inspo.
WHAT TO WEAR
1. opt for SOFT, NEUTRAL TONES
Colors like cream, ivory, blush, sage, soft blue, and warm beige photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you. These tones feel timeless, flattering, and cohesive across studio, home, and outdoor settings.
2. Choose dresses that highlight your bump
Flowy, fitted, or empire-waist dresses are especially flattering for maternity sessions. Movement, gentle volume, and feminine silhouettes create that soft, romantic look that feels both natural and elevated.
3. Add texture and subtle detail
Lace, pleats, ruffles, off-the-shoulder necklines, and airy fabrics add depth without distraction. Simple accessories or a delicate bouquet can be a beautiful finishing touch.
4. Use the client wardrobE!
WHERE TO SHOP FOR MATERNITY DRESSES
Ok, so we've had time to think about you, but if you're including your partner, or kids in your session - what about them? First of all, I will put a style board together for your entire family based on your vision, so no stress there! But if you'd like a few tips I've included those here.
1. coordinate, don't match
This is the #1 rule for photographing with family members. It's best for everyone to look like you belong together, but you should not match. Think of coordinating colors, and even a subtle pattern on one or two of you.
2. think light and neutral
Same as with Mom's outfit, pictures look truly timeless and classic when your outfits are light and neutral. Think whites, creams, tans, light blues, light pinks.
3. think about the colors in your home
If you plan to frame your photos for display in your home, think about coordinating your outfits with home decor in mind!
dressing your family
1. Busy patterns and bold graphics
Large logos, bold prints, and high-contrast patterns can pull attention away from your face and bump. Keeping things simple ensures your images feel timeless rather than trendy.
2. Overly bright or neon colors
Very bright tones can feel harsh on camera and may date your photos over time. Soft, muted colors always photograph more beautifully and consistently.
3. Stiff or uncomfortable outfits
Clothing that feels tight or restrictive can affect how relaxed you feel during your session. Comfort is key—when you feel good, it shows in every image.
4. Too many competing colors
If partners or children are included, coordinating everyone in a soft, neutral palette creates a cohesive, elevated look without feeling overly styled.
WHAT TO AVOID
Your body is different than you're used to (temporarily!) and the last thing you need to stress about is finding something to wear for maternity photos! I've got you covered!
The AWP Client Wardrobe is filled with a variety of maternity-friendly dresses in various sizes, and they're available to you at no extra cost. I will help you select the dress that most fits the vibe and vision for your session. I will bring them to you steamed and ready on photo day!
don't want to think about what to wear?
Select a dress from my client wardrobe!
Ok, you've thought about what type of outfits you want to wear, what VIBE of location you like, now how do we actually get you READY for your big day? Take a look through some of my recommendations on how to get you (and you family!) photo-ready.
HOW TO PREPARE
PREPARING YOURSELF
If you're not interested in investing in a professional, or you're already an expert yourself, OR it's just not your style- that is ABSOLUTELY and COMPLETELY okay! Here are some tips when doing your own hair and makeup...
Don't forget the nails!
And one last tip!! Don’t forget to pamper your fingernails and toenails! During your shoot, a lot of the shots we will get include close-ups of you belly - and your fingernails make it in the frame! Try to avoid any chipped polish or crazy patterns. French manicures, light/natural colors and even nails with no color at all photograph best!! And don't forget toes! Most maternity sessions are taken with no shoes on! So make sure your feet are photo-ready as well.
- Plan to wear slightly heavier make-up than normal (especially the eyes! - you can keep your skincare and facial makeup more natural), including blush and lipstick or gloss that are at least slightly darker than your lip color.
- Consider false eyelashes! These can be purchased for very affordable prices at CVS or any pharmacy in the area. They can look very natural and just give you a little extra pop.
- If you're one who curls your hair, keep it fresh and with movement. You can even come to your shoot with your curls still set in place and we can get it just right when you arrive.
HAIR & MAKEUP TIPS
INTERESTED IN HIRING A PROFESSIONAL?
Hiring a professional is a fun option, and will help you feel pampered and ready for photos. If this is something that interests you - just shoot me an email and I can send you some recommendations.
AFTER YOUR SESSION
You’ll receive a fully edited gallery within 2-3 weeks. Your gallery store is available to purchase premium heirloom albums, wall art, or other prints that I've curated for you. If you choose an album or wall art, I will design this for you. The store is optional and you will not be pressured whatsoever! If you choose to print elsewhere, that's your choice and you are granted print rights.
The Store
This step is completely optional, but it’s a premium service available to you. Some collections include a print credit to use toward the purchase of heirloom albums or framed art directly from your gallery store. PLEASE NOTE - your print credit is for albums and wall art only.
I've curated the products in your store to offer only those that are the best quality, beautiful products! You can't go wrong with anything you purchase from your store, but I've included a snapshot below of some of my favorites, along with the pricing associated with them. Products options range from top-of-the-line fine art products to classic, premium.
Pricing for Heirloom Framed Art begins at $575
These are very high quality wood or contemporary frames! They will instantly elevate your home decor, and are absolutely stunning. They come in a variety of sizes and finishes. I will work with you to design your artwork so it's just perfect for your space. I also have frame corners available so let me know if you're interested and I can bring some samples to your session!
framed art
Pricing for Heirloom Albums begins at $850
The heirloom albums are absolutely GORGEOUS. My favorite are the linen and velvet albums. Many people like the blue linen for a baby boy, and pink linen for a baby girl - they look like high-end nursery decor. The velvet would be stunning for maternity photos as well. If you decide to purchase an heirloom album I will design it for you! The Classic Albums are very intuitively designed by you directly in your gallery.
Albums
Pricing for Classic Albums begins at $350
Pricing for Classic Framed Art begins at $150
Just a Snapshot!
matted prints
The matted prints are crafted from museum-grade quality fine art paper that features brilliant colors and deep blacks. Set inside a secure mount, this mat is the perfect complement to your photograph. These can be displayed on their own or set inside a frame of your choosing.
Pricing begins at $60
FINE ART PRINTS
PREMIUM PRINTS
Premium, 100% cotton prints offering the smoothest surface in their fine art line, featuring a tabletop-smooth texture for crisp details and vibrant colors, with a matte finish that minimizes glare, making it versatile for any display setting and a popular choice for high-quality art reproduction and photography.
Fine art prints range from 8x10 to 30x40 and start at $18.
Printed on professional photo paper with a semi gloss or matte finish, for the highest quality long-lasting print. These are high quality prints that are significantly higher quality than you will find at a local retailer.
Premium prints range from 4x6 to 16x24 and start at $7.
