Creating a Wishlist for Your Maternity Session
By Elizabeth Lang Photography
When it comes to planning your maternity session, there’s so much to think about, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. However, one of the best ways to ensure you get the photos you’ve always dreamed of is by creating a wishlist ahead of time. A wishlist helps us communicate your vision clearly so we can capture the beautiful moments that matter most to you.
One of the first things I recommend is looking through my portfolio on Instagram. Save the images that resonate with you the most—whether it’s the lighting, the colors, or the way the poses are styled. But don’t limit yourself to just my work! Explore Pinterest or other search platforms to gather inspiration from a variety of sources. The goal is to create a collection of images that give us a clear direction for your session.
Now that you have a collection of photos, think about what appeals to you and why. Here are a few things to consider as you put together your wishlist:
What Style Speaks to You?
First, consider the overall vibe you’re drawn to. Do you prefer a formal, classic style with clean lines and a black-and-white color palette? Maybe you love the moody tones that create a more serious or dramatic feel. Or perhaps you're more drawn to soft, romantic shots with fluffy gowns, cozy snuggles, and tender smiles. These details will give us a starting point for the atmosphere we’ll create in your session.
Alternatively, you might love the lifestyle approach—those moments that feel organic and real, where you and your family are captured interacting naturally. Think of it like a "fly on the wall" feeling, where candid moments shine through, creating timeless and heartfelt images.
Think About the Colors and Mood
Do you envision a session that’s all about simplicity and lightness, with white or neutral tones dominating the scene? Or are you more inclined toward bright, bold colors that reflect your personality and energy? These choices can dramatically impact the feel of your photos, so it's important to identify what you love most.
And, of course, think about the tone of the photos. Are you leaning toward serious, elegant shots, or do you prefer something more lighthearted and fun? There’s no right or wrong answer—what matters is what resonates with you and feels authentic to you as a mom-to-be.
Including Your Partner and Siblings
Do you want to include your partner in your maternity session? Many moms choose to incorporate their partner, whether it’s a candid moment of affection or a posed shot with your hands on the baby bump. This helps tell the story of the journey you’re both on together as parents.
If you have other children, consider including them too! Sibling shots are always sweet and capture the growing bond between siblings before your little one even arrives. Whether it’s a playful shot with older siblings or a tender moment of them holding your bump, these are beautiful memories to cherish.
Including Baby Items
If you’re excited about your upcoming arrival, bringing in baby items can add a personal and sentimental touch to your maternity session. Think of tiny baby shoes, a blanket, an ultrasound photo or even something you’ve already bought for your baby’s nursery. These items add a unique layer to your photos and reflect your excitement and anticipation for your little one.
Share Your Ideas
Once you’ve collected images that inspire you, send them my way! Sharing these favorites helps me understand your vision and tailor the session to match your desires. Whether it’s specific poses, moods, colors, or props, I’ll make sure everything aligns with what you’re hoping for.
Creating Your Maternity Wishlist
Once you’ve gathered your ideas, we’ll sit down together and plan your wishlist. This is a collaborative process where we take all your inspiration and narrow it down to a customized plan that works best for your session. I’ll guide you through wardrobe choices, styling, and any other elements you want to incorporate, ensuring your maternity photos are as beautiful and personal as possible.
Final Thoughts
Planning your maternity session doesn’t have to be stressful—it’s an exciting opportunity to express yourself and capture this special time in your life. Creating a wishlist is a great way to get clear on your preferences and communicate what you want from your photoshoot. With your vision in hand, we’ll work together to create stunning maternity photos that reflect your unique style and personality.
At Elizabeth Lang Photography, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you want a formal, classic look or a relaxed, lifestyle vibe, let’s bring your maternity photoshoot dream to life. Ready to get started? Contact me today, and let’s begin planning your perfect session!