Maternity Client GUIDE

Maternity Client GUIDE

Pregnant woman in a light dress holding her belly with a young child standing next to her.
Circular logo with the words "FOR THE WILD & FREE" surrounding a white cactus icon on a black background.
A close-up of a pregnant woman sitting on the sand at the beach, wearing a white shirt and holding her belly.
A pregnant mother's hand and arm raised under falling water in a dimly lit shower.
Minimalist line art depicting a sun over wavy hills in a rectangular frame.

Welcome

First of all, thank you so much for finding your way here. Whether you have been recommended from a friend, found me on social media, or searched your way through seemingly hundreds of photographers to find your way here, I am so grateful for the chance to connect with you.

Finding a photographer, you resonate with is a journey worth taking and I am so glad you found something in my work that sparked a little light within you. Taking photos is my passion and I would love to be able to showcase you and your loved ones in a way that sparks that same joy within you when you receive the final images that will freeze the moments you look to preserve.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE

This guide is here to help you get to know me a little more and understand what the experience of working with me is like. In viewing this guide, I hope you feel that little spark shines brighter as you read about how incredible your experience has the potential to be. If that spark tends to dim out as you continue, I know there is another photographer out there who will be better suited to let your spark burn bright! I want to be sure we have the same vision for your session so you are left with both beautiful memories and timeless images that you will cherish forever.

About me

First, I’m mama for three beautiful boys, who inspire me to create these memories with my camera. Also I’m the referee in the house so you don’t have to worry how your kids will behave. I think I’ve seen it all!

I have always been drawn to see people. When I was a kid, I used to draw a lot. I always drew humans, faces, bodies. There is something beautiful in us people. Something I want you to see too. It’s not about perfect complex or beautiful features, but something coming from inside what I think I see. And that’s why I want you in front of my camera. I want to get to know you and get the best out of you in our sessions.

I’m a huge advocate of motherhood. My journey hasn’t been all sunflowers and roses, I’ve struggled too, and I want to support you in your journey. I wish you could be the kind of mother you want to be without any pressure from outside world. I wish you could be free, free to be the mother you want to be. Wild and free.

I want to photograph raw you and your loved ones. All the love and connection between you, tell stories with photos and capture these magical moments for you, right now. Soon you’ll miss these. My goal is to make memories which you can cherish years to come.

Black background with a beige cactus illustration in the center.
Close-up view of prickly pear cacti against a cloudy sky background.
Woman and two children sitting on rocky beach beside cliffs

MY GOAL IS TO MAKE MEMORIES WHICH YOU CAN CHERISH YEARS TO COME.

Lifestyle Photography

As a lifestyle photographer, I am here to document the everyday moments that all add up to create the big memories you look to cherish most.

This is our passion and we have done the work to ensure your session is as comfortable, carefree, and memorable as it can possibly be to create images that show your life well lived.

Lifestyle photographers aim to capture authentic moments and connections. We do not set with a long list of poses from a Pinterest board to direct our clients into. Rather, we take the time to guide you into genuine moments to capture the genuine smiles, booming laughter, and soft affections.

Outline drawing of a landscape scene with mountains and a setting or rising sun, framed with an arched top.
A woman swimming underwater in a bikini, reaching out with one arm, in clear water with the sandy bottom visible.
A woman holding a flowing, sheer orange fabric against a bright sky
A woman wearing a flowing dress standing on a beach, gazing into the distance with her hair blowing in the wind, during dusk or dawn.
Close-up of a woman's torso as she lies on bed with beige sheets, her hand resting on her exposed stomach and thigh, wearing a white lace robe.
A pregnant woman swimming in a pool, wearing a bikini, in a black-and-white photo.
A woman in a dark dress standing on a grassy hillside with arms outstretched and hair blowing in the wind, with hills and a cloudy sky in the background.
A woman in a lace dress sitting on a rocky shore during sunset, with her hair flowing and her face turned away from the camera.
A woman and a young girl lying in a field of tall, dry grass. The woman is wearing a white, embroidered dress, and the girl is dressed in a floral dress. They are close together, with the girl resting her hand on the woman's chest.
A woman with tattoos floating underwater in a clear body of water.

LOCATIONS

We have two general options for the location of your shoot: in your home or at an outdoor location. Also my small studio is in use if needed, but can host only couples or mothers only.

All of these other options are beautiful, and you should make the choice based on what you’re hoping to get out of your images. Are you looking for a more carefree, hanging out at home all alone? Or perhaps spending the day at the beach or out on a farm with your family? Are you hoping for a few romantic shots of you and your partner in your home? Or are you hoping for more windswept and natural outdoors? Take some time to think about what you’re hoping to get out of these images before choosing your location and read below for more insight into indoor and outdoor locations.

Family of four enjoying time by a lake with an island in the background, under a cloudy sky.
Family sitting on a sandy beach at sunset, with the ocean in the background. Two adults wearing headscarves hugging three children, creating a warm and loving atmosphere.

Outdoor

I love outdoor sessions purely for the opportunity to take advantage of the most beautiful lighting. I truly believe in the transformational power of beautiful sunlight. I understand getting up early for sunrise, or having to stay up late for sunset, may feel tough, but it has always been worth it.

For outdoor sessions, we can discuss a variety of options that match you and your family’s personality best. Do you like going for walks in the wood, or enjoying picnics in a meadow? Do you love the water and are you all willing to jump in? Outdoor sessions can really bring a magical feel to your images. Some of my favourite places to shoot are definitely by the water or even in the water, in the woods, a field of tall wheat grass, a farm, an apple orchard, or a field of flowers! What is your vision and what outdoor area really captures you best? Let’s discuss your ideas!

A woman in a sheer white dress is sitting in the water near the shore, gently resting her head on her hand with a peaceful expression.
A pregnant woman stands in front of a leafy tree at night. She is wearing a flowing, rust-colored dress, cradling her belly with both hands, with her head tilted down and her hair partially covering her face.

Outdoor session preparations

Preparing for an outdoor session requires a different kind of preparation that indoors. If your session will be at the beach, bring along a change of clothes in case we decide to have some fun in the water and a towel to get you dry!

Weather might be unpredictable and I can’t promise the golden sun for every session. It will be gorgeous nevertheless and it’s best to embrace whatever the weather is like. If it’s pouring rain, we will reschedule. Bring something to keep you warm if needed and plan accordingly.

If there are any other items you’d like to bring, like a favourite blanket, a guitar if someone in your family plays, or a favourite picnic snack, have these items all prepared and ready to go before we head out!

Illustration of a cacti plant with a black background.

IN home

There can be nothing comfier and more carefree than shooting in your own home. Your safe place to show some skin and get relaxed. Or imagine your kids jumping with glee on your bed while you come in with your partner to all collapse in the blankets and pillows in a heap of laugher, cuddles, and tickles! If you choose an in-home session, I am thrilled to be part of your everyday interactions. An in-home session often allows you and children to relax more and gives space for the family pet to photobomb as much as possible! The options are endless. The best time of day for an indoor shoot is morning to midday, so please keep that in mind if you are working around schedules.

As a lifestyle photographer, I am all about taking time to guide you into authentic moments with your loved ones during your shoot. I will not be focusing on the “look-at-the-camera-and-say-cheese” types of images during our shoot. I typically capture a few of these for you, but it is just to capture the more generic posed images one might want for a holiday card, to send to relatives, or for more professional use.

Indoor session prep

When preparing for your in-home session, I highly recommend focusing on the master bedroom as that’s where we often shoot at.

Thinking about the fabrics and bed covers. Whites and neutrals will allow more light to reflect up onto your faces, will brighten all of your images, and create a timeless feel. If you don’t have something white or neutral, be sure to keep it as classic as possible. Remember that colours and patterns will eventually be dated, which makes neutrals our best for images you’ll love sharing for years to come. In the end, these are your images so your house should look whatever you would like!

Another thing to remember for your indoor session is that I will often shoot toward the bed so if you have items on your end tables that you don’t want seen in the final images, please move them out of the bedroom or tuck them into some drawers out of view. If you do not have time to tidy up, I am happy to help you when I get there!

First when I arrive to your home, we will find the corners in your home where there is most light. I suggest you clean and declutter some, but please do not stress! I love lived-in homes and want to tell your story authentically.

A woman with blonde hair and tattooed arm wearing a white tank top, sitting on a bed in a dimly lit room, with a man beside her.
A woman lying down with her head on a man's shoulder, looking at the camera, with her hand near her mouth. They are in a relaxed setting with a plain background.

01 / AUTHENTIC INTERACTION

Truth be told, you’ll only have to look directly into the camera if prompted to do so!

I’m here to calm your nerves and I ensure even the most ‘camera shy’ individual will ease into relaxation to capture beautiful moments. I will direct you into pretty light, ask you to walk hand-in-hand, suggest you to move in certain way or breathe all the noice out. You will get more relaxed towards the end of the shoot and I promise, you will look like a goddess.

I love when you take over after one simple prompt and allow yourself shine through. Sitting back and capturing moments and natural connections happen in front of my camera is my absolutely favourite. While I can guide you, I love watching your personalities mix, and defined characteristics of relationships with each other reveal themselves. Be assured, I also know when to step back in to continue to guide the session, if needed.

What I really ask from you is that you really allow yourself to be just that - yourself. I’m not here to make judgements, I’m here to capture you at your most honest self. That’s the version of you your loved ones know and that we are looking to preserve in our session.

Please, show up open. Don’t be afraid to love on your babies or your partner as if no one else was there. I want you to laugh wildly, snuggle tightly, slide your fingers affectionately through their hair, tell them with passion and purpose how much you love them, and to keep connecting with your people each and every moment.

You will never have to ask, “is this okay?” because if it feels natural to you and how you connect with those you are being photographer with, then it is okay with me.

Allow yourself to be in the moment as much as possible and enjoy the experience. Silliness and laughter is always welcome, tears of joy and small smiles of love are encouraged.

02 / BE YOURSELF

A man and woman walking barefoot on the beach near the water at sunset or sunrise, with the ocean in the background.

03 / STYLING

Let’s take a deep breath before we begin!

The idea of picking out a wardrobe for you and everyone else who will be part of the shoot can seem a little overwhelming. I completely understand and have put together some helpful tips to make selecting outfits easy and enjoyable.

First, for in-home sessions, I want you to think comfortable and like you’re actually just hanging out at home. Think bare feet, comfortable clothing, and remaining true to you!

For outdoor sessions, try to coordinate your outfits by colour palette and try to avoid being really matchy. It’s good to start from a mother’s dress and then add other outfits according to that.

I do have a selection of client dresses and outfits for little ones. You get to have a peek when your session is booked. These dresses can be tried on before your session at my place in Espoo, if you wish.

A woman in a sheer, flowing dress standing on a rocky surface outdoors during sunset or sunrise, with a partly cloudy sky in the background.

SOME USEFUL STUFF HERE

Styling tips

STICK WITH LIGHT, PALE, NEUTRAL COLOURS - AVOID FLUORESCENT OR REALLY BRIGHT COLOURS

  • Go on and show off that pump, we have million ways of photographing that beautiful bump, but my favourite is always bare bump with lot of skin

  • Layer your clothing and jewellery to add depth and texture - think hats, vests, scarves, bow ties, belts, etc. Big chunky knits on top always looks good in this crazy weather we have here. Generally we have time for few different outfits

  • Be comfortable - steer clear of heels (unless we shoot in the city or that’s the vibe) or clothing that is too tight. You want to be able to move around and feel good.

  • Match your outfit to the location we’re shooting at. At beach you might not want to wear shoes at all to dip those toes in the water and in the city you can wear fancier outfits.

  • Flowy dresses work beautifully on women and girls - they show motion and move with you as opposed to staying rigid. If jeans are more of your style, go for it.

  • Only sky is the limit for what we can use. Piece of fabrik can be worn as a dress or set flowing in the air, jeans and top are always trendy, think out of the box. What’s your wildest dream to wear!

Most important of all. Be yourself!.

Timeline

Number line showing numbers 0 through 5 with the number 3 highlighted.

01 / CONTACT

You’re here. By reading this you will make your mind if our paths are set to cross and continue to planning your dream photoshoot.

02 / SESSION SECURED

Once we have determined a suitable date for your session, all that's left is to pay the deposit and fill in the questionnaire.

03 / PLANNING

Then, It’s all the fun part! In planning, we’ll chat about the best locations and my client wardrobe. Rest assured, I will customize the session to fit your exact needs.

04 / PHOTOSHOOT FUN

Finally, the moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to meet in person and spend some quality time together. My goal is for you to feel completely at ease and truly love the experience.

05 / BEAUTIFUL PICS

About three to four weeks later you’ll receive your gallery in your inbox. Make some time to view them together and don’t forget to have tissues on hand.

If you have ordered any of our exquisite handcrafted photos, they will be delivered to you soon.

A woman stands on a grassy hill with her arms outstretched, smiling, with a landscape of rolling hills and cloudy sky in the background.

KIND WORDS

Theresa

"We were absolutely amazed with Sanna’s work. She photographed me in my last weeks during pregnancy and I truly felt beautiful when I saw the result of the shoot. It made me so happy. She also captured our family during the newborn shoot so beautifully in a very intimate way. The result are authentic and unique pictures with a very own touch and couldn’t be more expressive and sensual. Absolutely stunning work. It was such a pleasure to shoot with her. The shoot felt very natural and was a lot of fun."

  • "I am so glad I found Sanna to do our family photoshoot! I love her natural style. And our photographs exceeded my expectations. She captured my family and our personalities perfectly and made us all feel so at ease in front of the camera with her calm nature. We really enjoyed the shoot and more importantly we have photos that we will treasure forever. I have received endless compliment's on how beautiful our photos are, and I highly recommend Sanna so everyone."

    Tara

  • Absolutely amazing, I cannot recommend her enough. It’s so hard to know who to pick when you’re looking for a photographer, but her style is what caught my eye first! Excellent communication when we were booking and has a beautiful client wardrobe. I felt a little bit awkward having my photo taken initially but she is so kind and easy going you instantly feel comfortable. When I got my photo gallery I was blown away, I looked amazing haha. I have so many people complimenting my photos, so I always recommend her. I’ve had my maternity and my newborn shoots and can’t wait to have more in the future!

    Angela

  • Absolutely in awe of our pictures! Sanna is a dream catcher! I first noticed Sanna's work when she captured a friend's pregnancy. Immediately I knew I wanted her to capture mine too! She asked about how I wanted to feel during the shoot, and supported me with the wardrobe (I took one piece from her client closet).. It was still a bit cold in Finland when our shoot date arrived but I am so grateful that Sanna continued to honour my desire for an outdoor shoot. Both of us (and my husband) powered through the cold and what we received in the end, were stunning pictures that I am going to cherish for a lifetime! I highly recommend Sanna and absolutely love how she is able to capture beautiful loving moments, no matter the situation :D

    Pukhraj Ranjan

  • Wonderful Memories Sanna was present for a couple of sessions during my pregnancy and a newborn photoshoot. We are extremely grateful to her for capturing the very essence of every stage of this journey for us. She was patient, understanding, calm and really made an effort to understand us and connect with us. I believe that's what makes her work so beautiful and special: her interest in getting to know the people in front of her camera ❤️ I want her there for all the pregnancies and babies to be... Thank you Sanna, for helping us keep all these wonderful memories 🙏🏼

    Lara Filipa

Services

MATERNITY 559€

  • Sunrise or sunset outdoors, mornings at home or in the studio

  • Personal planning and guidance

  • 60 minute session

  • Mainly for mothers but also partners

  • all images (60+) in personal online gallery

  • Beautiful video of the favourite images

  • use of client wardrobe

NEWBORN 699€

  • Sunrise or sunset outdoor or morning at home or in studio

  • Personal planning and guidance

  • Immediate family

  • session last usually 90-120 minutes

  • all images (70+) in personal online gallery

  • Beautiful video of the favourite images

  • use of client wardrobe

BUMP TO BABY 999€

  • Maternity and newborn package combined

  • book this when you book the maternity shoot to make sure there is availability or mention this when you’re about to book

Half of the session fee is paid upon booking and is non refundable. It covers the costs of time, planning, travel, admin, preparation and wash and prep of the client closet and the other half of your payment includes the editing and all your digital images presented in personal online gallery.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Let's connect

Let's connect

A woman holding a child, with the woman making a finger gesture to her lips, seen through a semi-transparent curtain."}

LET'S CAPTURE

THE WILD & FREE

MAMA YOU ARE

I don’t know id I can say enough how much of an honour it is to be able to share with you my heart for lifestyle photography sessions, the ability to capture you and your loved ones right where you are at is such a gift to me and the images will be such gifts to you.

If what you’ve read about my work resonates with you, please do not hesitate to reach out to me so we can connect and discuss an upcoming session. Connecting with you and brainstorming ideas for your session is half of the fun.

I look forward to hearing from you and bringing your vision to life in images you can hang on your walls that will tell the story of who you are: who you loved, what made your heart spark and how you were wild and free mama as you are!

xx Sanna

A close-up of a couple embracing on a beach, with the woman wearing an open shirt and a necklace, and both hands resting on her pregnant belly.
A double exposure photograph showing a pregnant woman and palm trees against a cloudy sky.
A woman standing outdoors, partially undressed, with long hair, casting a shadow on a wall or surface.

LET'S CAPTURE THE WILD & FREE MAMA YOU ARE

A pregnant woman in a flowing lace dress standing on rocks by the ocean during sunset, with her hand on her belly and her eyes closed, enjoying the moment.
A pregnant woman sitting down, wearing a pink sheer cover-up and red lingerie, with her hand resting on her belly and head bowed, in a dimly lit setting.

LET'S CAPTURE THE WILD & FREE MAMA YOU ARE

hello@sannahelenaphotography.com

www.sannahelenaphotography.com

instagram.com/sannahelenaphotography

facebook.com/sannahelenaphotography

pinterest.com/sannasannass

040 733 9380