Maternity Photographer in Chicago

The ideal time is between 28–32 weeks of pregnancy, when the baby bump is beautifully round and you still feel comfortable and energetic.
It’s recommended to book as early as 20 weeks (or 1–2 months in advance) to secure your preferred date.

Yes, all packages include free access to a curated client wardrobe with designer dresses, flowing fabrics, angel wings, feather capes, etc. You’ll receive an online catalog after booking.

Solid colors that coordinate with your outfit: suit, shirt + trousers, shirt + jeans, or t-shirt + jeans. Iron clothes and clean shoes (including soles).

• Skin: Moisturize daily for a few days before your session. Avoid trying new skincare, tanning, or strong treatments right before the shoot.

• Nails: A fresh manicure/pedicure is recommended—neutral shades (nude, soft pink, milky white) photograph best.

• Hair: Wash and dry your hair the day of (or the night before). Avoid heavy oils. If you booked hairstyling, please arrive with clean, dry hair.

• What to wear underneath: Bring seamless nude underwear and a strapless nude bra.

• Food & hydration: Eat a light meal and bring water + small snacks.

• The day before / morning of: Avoid alcohol and salty foods (they can cause puffiness). Try to get good sleep and drink water. Avoid tight socks/bras the morning of the shoot (they can leave marks on skin).

Minimal items: seamless nude/underwear, jewelry (optional), good mood.
Optional extras: fresh flowers, ultrasound photos, baby items (booties, bodysuits), balloons.
Snacks and a robe are also recommended for comfort.

Yes, partners and children are encouraged (pets welcome with leash/carrier). Partners can relax on the couch, use Wi-Fi, or watch TV while you shoot solo.

Yes. I can soften stretch marks, reduce temporary puffiness, and refine angles (including double chin) while keeping you looking natural and like yourself.

Standard retouching includes:

• Color correction + balancing light and skin tone

• Cropping and straightening

• Removing small imperfections (blemishes, redness, minor spots)

• Light skin smoothing while keeping natural texture

• Subtle under-eye brightening (if needed)

• Minimal flyaway hair cleanup

• Removing small distractions (lint, small background details)

• Light clothing wrinkle smoothing (if noticeable)

• Minor body/silhouette refinement (if needed, kept natural)

Goal: a natural, clean, and polished look

Exclusive retouching is advanced, creative editing that goes beyond standard retouching and may include:

• Compositing (merging multiple images into one)

• Replacing the background with a unique / artistic scene

• Replacing or restoring elements (fixing details in clothing or the background, removing/restoring parts of the image)

• Partial replacement of elements within the photo (specific objects/details)

• Adding or removing people (upon request)

• Changing colors of elements in the image (clothing, accessories, details)

• Targeted detail swaps (eyes/smile/specific parts) — upon request and if technically possible

• Complex object removal and deep background cleanup

This option is best when you want a more “perfect” or highly creative/editorial final result.

Some packages are all-inclusive.

• Access to client wardrobe (designer dresses, fabrics, accessories).

• Guided posing.

• Option to include partner, children, and pets.

• Retouching on a specified number of photos.

• Makeup/hairstyling available as add-ons (often in "four hands" for efficiency).

Not mandatory — you can do your own or come without — but professional makeup/hairstyling is highly recommended for the best results under studio lighting.
It can be added and done simultaneously by two professionals.

Yes – hair and makeup can be done right in the studio.

Please plan to arrive about 1 hour before your session start time, based on the time you selected during booking.

After you book, I’ll reach out and confirm the exact arrival time, since it can vary slightly depending on the stylist.

Guided posing (no modeling experience needed), relaxed studio atmosphere with music, sofa for breaks, family/partner/pet inclusion, multiple outfit changes, and a comfortable environment.

Absolutely. The photographer guides every pose, angle, hand placement, and expression to make you look natural and beautiful.