TIPS FOR AMAZING MATERNITY PORTRAITS
Advice for Maternity Portraits that you’ll cherish
Odds are that you have at least one friend who’s pregnant (or attempting) – what a great time to test out your maternity photography skills! Here are some tips on getting great photos:
Timing is Everything
You want a big belly, but you don’t want mom to feel exhausted or have too many pregnancy related side effects (stretch marks, water retention, etc.). There’s also the risk of an early delivery, so about 7-8 months is when you want to plan to get those maternity photos completed.
Focus on Mom
Ideally you want your shooting location to be as simple as possible, so that all the focus is on the expectant mother. A simple couch, bed, or bare room is a good start, with soft, neutral colors all around. Outdoors is great too, it just requires a bit more planning and flexibility.
Choose Colors/Tone Wisely
Soft, white or pastel colors work really well in maternity photos, but it depends on your background as well. Obviously, for black and white images you’ll want very light/dark clothing that contrasts with surroundings and mom’s beautiful skin. Make sure your client brings a few changes of clothing, just in case!
Maternity Silhouettes
Try to get at least one silhouette shot by placing mom against a bright background and underexposing your image – these types of maternity photos are always really popular and look artistic, so even if it’s your first maternity session you’ll have a great photo!
Work with Comfort Levels
Fully-nude maternity shots are not for everyone, although they are gorgeous. Try to work with your subject’s comfort levels. Having a sheer sheet on hand is a great in-between option; you can drape it artfully to cover the “bits” but still leave the bump, legs, and arms exposed. Mom can also pick up a bandeau (strapless bra) and underwear in a nude tone to create the illusion of nudity, without the nude.
Head Outdoors
You will have more control over your set indoors, but outdoor maternity shots are just as (or more) gorgeous, particularly if can find a quite park or piece of beach at sunset. Even if it’s winter you can get some gorgeous photos, as long as mom is willing to wear something tight-fitting for the shoot!
Include Everyone in Maternity Shots
Besides getting some “just mom” photographs you’ll also want to include the dad-to-be, siblings, even pets into your maternity photo shoot to give a nicely-rounded group of photos to your client/friend. You can also include props like baby shoes, chalkboards (with a due date), sonogram photos, balloons, ribbons, flowers, even write on mom’s tummy with some washable paint! Also ask your subject if there’s anything they’d like to include.
In case you need some more inspiration, here’s an awesome Pinterest Board of amazing maternity photos!
When you’re ready to book your next photo shoot with Jane, call 917-744-3310 or fill out the contact form here.
Related photography articles:
- Photography Tips for Births and Newborns
- Tips for Photographing Baby’s Firsts
- Tips for Lifestyle Newborn Photography
- Photographing Baby’s First Christmas
- Tips for Choosing a Newborn Photographer
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Tips for Amazing Maternity Portraits
