Mastering Maternity Photoshoot Hair and Makeup [Full Guide]
Welcome to this comprehensive guide designed to help you look and feel your most beautiful during your maternity photoshoot. This special time in your life deserves to be captured in the most stunning way possible. As a mom who’s been through this magical journey, I remember the excitement and the nervousness of getting ready for my maternity session. Whether you’re planning a serene outdoor shoot or a cozy indoor session, the right hair and makeup can truly elevate your maternity photos.
Understanding Maternity Photoshoot Basics
Maternity is a time of remarkable transformation and beauty. It’s about celebrating the life within and capturing the essence of this unique period. When you look back at your maternity photos, you’ll want to see not just how you looked but how you felt – radiant, empowered, and full of love. Hair and makeup play a pivotal role in this, as they help express your personality and style, making you feel beautiful and confident in front of the camera.
The tone of your maternity photo shoot is key to creating images that resonate with your personal story. Whether you’re envisioning a natural, understated look or something more glamorous, your hair and makeup should reflect this mood. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty, not overshadow it. Trust your instincts and choose a style that makes you feel most like yourself
Timing and Comfort
The best time for a maternity photo shoot is usually in the late second to early third trimester, when the baby bump is beautifully pronounced. Comfort is paramount, so plan your hair and makeup around your well-being. For instance, if your skin is quite dry, it’s essential to avoid matte foundations, as they might not feel comfortable or look flattering. Instead, opt for hydrating products that make your skin glow naturally. And remember, if you feel the need to blot excess oil with tissue or touch up your powder during the shoot, that’s perfectly okay!
Selecting the Perfect Maternity Hairstyles
Selecting the right hairstyle for your maternity photoshoot is very important. The key is to choose a style that not only complements your features and outfit but also makes you feel effortlessly beautiful. Let’s explore some timeless and trendy hairstyles as well as some classic hairstyles that are perfect for capturing your maternity glow.
Soft Waves and Curls
Soft waves and curls are the epitome of romantic and elegant hairstyles, perfect for maternity photography. These styles frame your face beautifully, adding sophistication to your maternity photos. When styling your hair in gentle waves, remember to use a curling iron and let the hair cool down before gently brushing them out. This technique gives a natural, flowing look that is ideal for a maternity shoot. They work wonderfully under natural light, highlighting your hair’s texture and volume. Whether you opt for a full head of curls or soft waves, these hairstyles can dramatically enhance your hair and makeup looks.
Sleek and Simple Updos
Sleek buns or simple chignons are excellent choices for a refined and polished appearance. These updos are particularly effective if you’re wearing a maxi dress or an outfit with an intricate neckline, as they keep the focus on your face and baby bump. When styling your hair into an updo, ensure it complements your overall look without overwhelming it. The key is to create a style that feels comfortable and looks effortlessly elegant.
Bohemian Braids and Twists
Bohemian braids and twists offer a playful yet stylish element to your maternity photos. From fishtail braids to loose, messy twists, these hairstyles are versatile and can be adorned with small flowers or pins for an extra whimsical touch. They suit every photoshoot, whether in a studio setting or amidst nature, adding a boho-chic vibe to your look.
Playful Ponytails and Buns
Ponytails and buns, whether high and sleek or low and messy, can be as chic and elegant as any elaborate hairstyle. Curling the hair falling around your face can add a soft, feminine touch, perfect for a relaxed maternity photoshoot. These hairstyles are not only fashionable but also practical, keeping your hair away from your face and neck.
Hair Accessories to Enhance Your Look
Floral Crowns and Headbands
Floral crowns and headbands are a popular choice in maternity shoots, and one of the best maternity photography props as they add a dreamy, ethereal quality to your look, especially in outdoor settings. You can choose between fresh flowers for a natural vibe or artificial ones for more lasting power.
Elegant Clips and Pins
Simple accessories like elegant clips and pins can significantly elevate your hairstyle. A pearl clip or a sparkling pin can add a touch of sophistication, subtly enhancing your hairdo.
Professional Hair and Makeup for Maternity Shoots
For a truly stress-free and polished look, consider getting your hair and makeup done by professional artists before the shoot. Professional hair and makeup services can tailor your look to suit your personal style and the theme of your shoot. They are skilled in creating hairstyles and makeup looks that photograph well and last throughout the session. By opting for professional services, you ensure that every detail, from the nape of the neck to the tips of your hair, is perfect.
Top 14 Hair and Hairstyle Tips for Your Maternity Photoshoot
Hydrate Your Hair: Start with well-hydrated hair for easier styling.
Choose the Right Products: Select hair products that suit your hair type and the desired style.
Practice Your Hairstyle: Try out your hairstyle before the shoot to ensure it’s exactly what you want.
Consider Your Outfit: Your hairstyle should complement your outfit and the overall theme of the shoot.
Accessorize Wisely: Choose accessories that enhance your hairstyle without overpowering it.
Plan for the Weather: If your shoot is outdoors, consider how the weather might affect your hair.
Touch-up Kit: Bring a small kit with hairpins, a brush, and hairspray for quick touch-ups.
Communicate with Your Stylist: If using a professional, clearly communicate your preferences and expectations.
Comfort is Key: Choose a hairstyle you’re comfortable with; you don’t want to be adjusting it constantly.
Embrace Your Natural Beauty: Choose a style that enhances your natural beauty and makes you feel confident.
Embrace Soft Curls: Soft curls are a timeless choice that adds a romantic touch to your look. Ensure your hair is healthy and well-moisturized before curling. Once your hair has cooled after curling, gently run your fingers through to create soft, flowing waves.
Try Half-Up Hairstyles: Half-up hairstyles are both elegant and practical, keeping hair away from your face while showcasing your length. They work great with soft curls or straight hair.
Prep Your Hair for Makeup: If you’re doing your makeup for the shoot, ensure your hair is clean and dry. Avoid products that might congest the open hair follicles, as this could affect your skin.
Post-Styling Care: After styling your hair, use a tiny amount of hydrating mineral charged water around your hairline. This can help keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
Makeup for Maternity Photoshoots
Whether you adore a full glam look or prefer to keep things natural, the right makeup can enhance your features and reflect your personal style. As we delve deeper into this topic, you’ll find helpful makeup tips and tricks to help you look and feel your absolute best for this special occasion.
Natural Makeup: Enhancing Your Glow
Foundation and Concealer Tips
When it comes to natural makeup for your maternity shoot, it’s all about enhancing your inherent beauty. Choosing the right foundation is key – it should match your skin tone and provide the coverage you’re comfortable with. If your skin is quite dry, a hydrating foundation can give you that dewy, radiant look. For concealer, select a shade close to your foundation to avoid a white or too bright appearance. The best foundation choice is one that looks like a second skin, enhancing rather than masking your natural beauty.
Eye Makeup: Keeping It Simple
Simple and elegant should be your mantra for eye makeup. A light eyeshadow, perhaps a shade or two darker than your skin tone, can add depth without being overpowering. Natural looking fake lashes can subtly enhance your eyes, making them stand out in the photos. Continue using a regular concealer over your eyelids to even out the skin tone. The goal is to enhance your best features in the most natural way possible.
Bold Makeup: Making a Statement
Lip Colors and Contouring
If you’re feeling adventurous and want your makeup to make a statement, explore bold lip colors and contouring. A vibrant lip can be a beautiful focal point in your maternity photos. Contouring is about subtly enhancing your best features – a little goes a long way. Choose a contour shade that’s just a few shades darker than your skin for a natural shadow effect.
Eye Shadows and Eyeliner Techniques
For a bolder eye look, experiment with different eyeshadow colors that complement your eye color and outfit. Smokey eyes can add drama, but remember to blend well for a seamless look. A subtle winged liner can be particularly striking and define your eyes beautifully.
Professional Makeup and Hair Services
Again, consider hiring a professional makeup artist and hair stylist before your maternity shoot. They can create a look that’s both flattering and photogenic, ensuring you look your best. A makeup artist can also offer airbrush makeup, which provides a flawless finish and lasts longer, perfect for studio maternity sessions.
Top 10 Makeup Tips for Your Maternity Photoshoot
Hydrate Your Skin: Start with well-moisturized skin for a smooth makeup application.
Primer Is Key: Use a primer to ensure your makeup stays put throughout the shoot.
Foundation Choice: If your skin is quite dry, avoid matte foundations. Opt for a dewy finish.
Concealer Tricks: To avoid a grey undertone or camera flash issues, select a concealer that matches your skin tone.
Eye Makeup Balance: If you’re going bold on the lips, keep your eye makeup understated, and vice versa.
Set Your Makeup: Always end with a hydrating, mineral-charged water spray like MAC Cosmetics Fix+ to set your makeup.
Blot, Don’t Powder: If you get oily during the shoot, remember to blot, not powder, to maintain the makeup’s integrity.
Natural Lashes: Choose natural-looking fake lashes for a subtle enhancement.
Lip Color Last: Apply your lip color last to ensure it’s fresh and crisp.
Relax and Enjoy: Remember, the most beautiful thing you can wear is your confidence and joy.
Skin Care Before the Shoot
Hydration and Moisturizing
Good skin care is the foundation of great makeup. In the days leading up to your shoot, focus on hydrating and moisturizing your skin. Drink plenty of water and use a moisturizer that suits your skin type. If your skin tends to get oily during the shoot, remember to blot the excess oil with tissue or blotting paper instead of touching up your powder frequently.
Pre-Photoshoot Skin Prep
The night before your photoshoot, engage in a gentle skincare routine. Avoid trying new products that might irritate your skin. A mild exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, giving you a smoother canvas for your makeup. On the day of the shoot, always spray your entire face at the very end with a hydrating mineral-charged water like MAC Cosmetics Fix+ to set your makeup and add an extra boost of hydration.
See other steps to prepare for your in studio pregnancy photoshoot.
Oxana Alex Photography
At Oxana Alex Photography, we are open for booking in studio fashion and maternity sessions. Designer wardrobe and accessories for your session are free or charge. Our studio is located at 2100 Sawtelle Blvd UNIT 307 Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA. You can see our photoshoot pricing here & our photography reviews here.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this comprehensive guide, I hope you feel more confident and prepared for your maternity photoshoot. Remember, the essence of these photos is to capture the beauty and emotion of your pregnancy journey. When considering makeup for your shoot, remember that makeup is your best foundation when it enhances your natural beauty. Be mindful not to congest the open hair follicles with heavy makeup.
Your hairstyle is another crucial aspect of your maternity shoot- Whether you choose soft curls, an elegant updo, or a chic half-up style, ensure your hair complements your overall look. If you’re unsure about styling your hair, consider hiring a professional to help. This way, you don’t have to worry about the small details and can focus on enjoying your shoot, the most important thing is to feel beautiful and confident!
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
