FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FULL-SERVICE AND DIY MATERNITY AND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY IN NYC?

Full-service maternity photography offers a fully guided, stress-free experience where the photographer manages planning, styling, posing, and artistic direction from start to finish. DIY photography—often called mini sessions or basic packages—typically provides studio time and digital files with minimal guidance, requiring clients to manage wardrobe, styling, and creative decisions themselves.

What's included in full-service luxury maternity photography:

• Professional hair and makeup styling by experienced artists (no need to book separately or worry about looking camera-ready)

• Curated studio wardrobe with designer maternity gowns and fabrics (no shopping, no stress about what to wear)

• Expert posing and direction throughout your 2-hour session (we guide you every step—no awkward "what do I do with my hands?" moments)

• Personalized design consultation to plan your vision (we handle the creative planning so you don't have to)

• Artistic retouching and editing of every delivered image (no DIY photo editing required)

• Fine art prints on museum-quality archival materials (ready to display, not another task on your to-do list)

• Complete creative control by your photographer for cohesive, gallery-worthy results

What DIY or mini session photography typically requires from you:

• Find and purchase or rent your own maternity outfits

• Book and coordinate your own hair/makeup (or do it yourself)

• Research poses and have ideas ready

• Shorter session time (30-60 minutes) with minimal guidance

• Sort through and potentially edit your own photos

• Coordinate print orders separately if desired

• More planning and prep work on your end

Why busy NYC moms choose full-service maternity photography:

When you’re already juggling work, preparing a nursery, doctor appointments, and daily life in New York City, the last thing you need is another project to manage. Full-service photography takes everything off your plate—you arrive, you’re cared for, and you leave with finished artwork, not another to-do list.

At Candace Howe Studios, we understand that your time and energy are precious, especially during pregnancy. Our white-glove approach means you can simply relax and enjoy this milestone without adding to your already-full to-do list.

CAN MY PARTNER AND CHILDREN BE INCLUDED IN MY MATERNITY PHOTOS?

Absolutely! We love capturing the entire family during maternity sessions. Your partner, older children, and soon-to-be siblings are all welcome to join for family maternity portraits. Our studio features a comfortable lounge area where family members can relax while you're being styled and prepared.

Popular combinations:

• Mom solo portraits + couple portraits with partner

• Full family maternity photos with siblings

• Intimate couple-only maternity photography

HOW LONG UNTIL I RECEIVE MY MATERNITY PHOTOS?

Here’s what to expect after your session:

1. Proof gallery: Delivered approximately 1 week after your session via private online gallery

2. Final edited images: Ready 2–3 weeks after you select your favorites from the proof gallery

3. Print orders: Shipped within 2–3 weeks of order placement

All images are professionally edited and color-corrected to our luxury studio standards.

DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS FOR MATERNITY AND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS?

Yes! We make luxury maternity photography accessible with flexible payment options:

• All major credit cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)

• Cash payments welcome

• Custom installment plans available after your retainer is paid

• Afterpay for convenient buy-now-pay-later financing

Your session date is secured with a non-refundable retainer fee, and remaining balances can be paid over time according to your payment plan.

CAN I BRING MY DOG TO MY MATERNITY AND FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT?

Yes! We welcome your furry family members at Candace Howe Studios. Many expecting parents in New York City love including their dogs in maternity photos to celebrate their "first baby" before the new arrival.

What to know about pet-friendly maternity photography:

• Studio sessions: Your dog is welcome in our Clinton Hill, Brooklyn studio. We recommend bringing a helper to manage your pup between shots. There are plenty of green space options for potty breaks and walks.

• What to bring: Favorite treats, a leash, and any special collar or bandana you'd like featured in photos. There is a sanitized water bowl for them to use while in the studio with us!

• Preparation tips: A tired dog photographs better—give them extra exercise before your session!

If you still have questions or would like to begin planning your session, we’d love to connect with you.