Stefanie Cole Photography | Connecticut's Leading Family Photographer

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What to Expect From Your Studio Maternity Photoshoot

The Stefanie Cole Photography Studio is located in Shelton, CT, and services Fairfield County, Hartford County, New Haven County, Litchfield County, and many New York City clients. It is a full service studio with full wardrobe, studio AND natural light setups, and lots of creative backdrop options.

Hair and makeup

Hair and makeup is not included in your session. Please arrive with it done. If you would like to have your hair/makeup artist meet at the studio prior to your session, that is typically just fine….please just let me know to ensure I have availability ahead of your session.

Not sure who to hire as your artist? My go-to girl is Amber Papastavros - click her name to be brought to her website or find her here: Amber's Instagram. If she is not available, I have a highlight reel of Fairfield County hair and makeup artists that other clients have used and recommended: SCP Recommendations

What do I need to bring?

  • A nude strapless bra and seamless nude thong

    • The studio does have nude strapless bras in size 34A up to 38DD that you are welcome to use if you don’t have your own.

  • Ripped/distressed jeans to be rolled down.

    • The studio does have jeans available in sizes XS - XXL you are welcome to use. If you don’t have any that fit and want to bring your own, a lot of moms buy an inexpensive pair sized up and save for post partum.

  • Bralette, lingerie or crop top/tee.

    • The studio has cropped tanks in neutral colors. A lot of moms like to bring Calvin Kleins, lacy black lingerie, or anything else that you love to mix things up.

What does the Stefanie Cole Photography Studio have?

The studio is STOCKED with so many things to make your photoshoot unique to you. These items are not listed in the online inventory to ensure that everything is available on the day of your session.

  • Jeans (XS - XXL)

  • Nude Strapless Bras (34A - 38DD)

  • Sheer Fabrics for wrapping/draping

  • Crop Tops and bodysuits

  • Oversized mens shirts

  • Dresses and gowns

  • Sweaters and jackets

  • Hats

  • Shirts for dad and wardrobe for siblings (can be found here: Client Wardrobe)

Almost everything shown on my website and Instagram is provided by the studio - if you see something you love, don’t hesitate to ask if it’s available!

How much nudity will there be?

Your session will be completely tailored to you, your comfort level and what your vision is for your session. Some clients want no nudity, and some want to take it all off! Most clients fall somewhere in the middle, and I am here to make it happen. Don’t be surprised if midway through your session you are feeling so good that you decide to do more than you expected, but there is never any pressure.

Nudity options (in order of exposure level) - all are welcome!

  • Fully lit and fully nude (you will be nude and fully lit, so your body is shown) but privates will be covered.

  • Backlit and nude (you will be fully nude in the studio, but the final photos will only show your silhouette).

  • Nude but covered with wraps

  • Nude “look” with wraps, but wearing underwear and/or bra

  • Showing some belly, but always clothed

  • Fully clothed and covered

Nothing is ever set in stone - just come in with an open mind and a loose plan, and we’ll always adapt to your comfort level!

How do family sessions work?

Partners, children and pets are all welcome to join you for a portion of your maternity session. There is a play area in the studio that kids love! However, I always recommend having someone take your kids away once they are finished if that’s a possibility. It will be easier for moms to relax and I think that’s an important part of the experience. You can either arrange for a friend/grandparent to join, or have Dad take them off. There is a coffee shop below the studio as well as several restaurants within walking distance.

Siblings and partners are welcome to use the studio wardrobe, or you can use your own clothing if planning a more casual look.

What else do I need to know?

  • The SCP Studio has a private bathroom and changing area.

  • The studio is located on the fourth floor of the Conti Building. The building has an old fashioned passenger elevator that can be used to bring you up. The elevator does occasionally go down for repairs, but I always do my best to notify clients ahead of time in case they prefer to reschedule.

  • The studio is air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter.

  • Beverages, coffee, and snacks are available.

I cannot wait to capture this special time for you! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, ideas or concerns.