LET’S GET YOU READY
LET’S GET YOU READY
This is more than a photoshoot. It’s a vulnerable place to stand — allowing yourself to be seen in a way that feels powerful, sensual, refined and entirely you. My role is to guide you through every step so you arrive calm, confident and ready. Below is everything you need to know before your women’s portrait session in Colchester.
THE WEEK BEFORE YOUR SESSION
Skin & Body Preparation
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Moisturise daily in the week leading up to your shoot.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Avoid heavy spray tans. Uneven tone and tan lines are difficult to retouch naturally.
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Avoid sunburn (retouching is not included for burns or streaks).
Hair & Brows
Freshly trimmed hair or shaped brows can make a huge difference.
If you colour your hair, aim to do so 5–7 days before your session so it settles naturally.
If you’ve booked professional hair & makeup, arrive with:
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Clean, dry hair
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A clean, moisturised face
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Inspiration images if you have a specific look in mind
HANDS & FEET (Yes, They Matter)
Your hands will appear in many images.
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Remove chipped polish.
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Neutral tones work beautifully.
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If you prefer bold, choose something intentional.
Even subtle details elevate your images to magazine-level.
WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR WOMEN’S PORTRAIT SESSION
Elegant
Flowing dresses, silk, heels.
Sophisticated
Tailored blazer, crisp shirt, minimal jewellery.
Intimate
Structured lingerie, bodysuits, lace, silk robes.
Bold
Leather, boots, strong silhouettes.
Timeless
Well-fitted jeans and a beautiful blouse.
Personal
Something meaningful — a heirloom, favourite book, or piece of jewellery.
Bring 3–5 outfit options. I’ll help you choose.
Checkout our fabulous studio space based in Mersea Island.
WHAT TO BRING
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Black or nude strapless bra
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Seamless underwear
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Shoes
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Favourite lipstick
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Jewellery options
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If you’d like a professional headshot: a jewel-toned top
Why Choose Me as Your Essex Maternity Photographer?
Hello! I'm Toni Field, a 55-year-old portrait photographer with over 15 years behind the lens.
There are many photographers.
But here’s what makes this experience different:
✔ Specialist in maternity & newborn photography
✔ Private Colchester studio
✔ Years of experience posing pregnant women safely
✔ Calm, supportive environment
✔ Luxury products designed to last generations
Most importantly — I understand this moment as I am a mother myself.
I know the nerves.
I know the excitement.
I know how important this is.
ON THE DAY
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Eat something light.
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Avoid tight clothing that leaves marks.
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Get a good night’s sleep.
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Arrive on time (hair & makeup takes around 1 hour; session time 90 mins–2 hours).
THE CONFIDENCE PART (The Most Important Bit)
You do not need to:
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Lose weight
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Know how to pose
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Be “naturally confident”
That is my job.
My direction is calm, precise and intentional.
You’ll be guided through posture, hands, expression and energy.
You don’t perform.
You allow.
