Are you looking to capture your pregnancy journey with stunning maternity photography?
Over the past few years, maternity photography has become more popular and a sought after service.
With pregnancy and the early childhood years going by so fast, maternity shoots capture this incredible moment in time, for the rest of your life.
With how important it is to capture this moment in time, finding the right maternity photographer can ensure you’re left with pictures you love to share, not cringe at.
Today, professional maternity photography has become an industry of its own.
More and more photographers and studios are providing maternity and newborn photo package services. So it can be quite daunting knowing who to trust in photographing the mother-to-be.
But there are many things you can do to improve your photoshoot. By following these guidelines and using your own instincts and creative ideas, you can get your own emotional and magnificent portraits capturing this amazing time in your life.
Whether you’re the one behind the lense, or the one in front of the camera, these tips will ensure an unforgettable and beautiful shoot.
Here are 7 maternity photography tips you simply must know.
1. Creative Camera Angles
When it comes to portraiture, angles really matter.
As a result, basic portrait composition methods apply.
One of your responsibilities is to find as many meaningful angles as you can, and this can be especially tricky for maternity photography.
It’s a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating, don’t forget the tummy! The pregnancy belly is the real star of the maternity photo session.
As a creative angle, try taking a photograph from above. Standing above the subject will allow you to focus easily and directly on the baby bump. You can combine this with flowing items of clothing, notes retailer Tierra Alma. They explain “a long, flowy, maxi dress can elevate a maternity shoot. While this is just one example, finding clothes that are flattering for any size can create movement that looks incredible in a still photo.”
Even if you are going for a body shot, this particular angle will be a great option that provides a unique approach and angle.
2. Give Precise Directions
Lack of clear directions and communication can easily spoil a maternity photography session.
This goes for both the photographer AND the mum-to-be.
If you’re after the mum-to-be to try some new poses, be clear with the what and why. Pregnant mums may feel body conscious, so explaining why you are making requests can help calm nerves.
The same goes if you’re the mum-to-be, be clear with anything you don’t feel comfortable doing.
For instance, you can turn a little to the right or the left. You can also move your legs or arms further away or closer to the camera and so forth. You should note that taking a shot of the belly from the side is always better and more flattering as compared to taking a shot from the front since your photo will have additional balance – the curve of the belly can balance out the back curve.
3. Go Abstract – Don’t Stick To Predictable Shots
With maternity photography, you don’t have to make figurative photographs alone – start thinking like an artist.
Be brave and head for the abstraction!
Top abstract portraits appear artistic while at the same time telling a story, so go for that. Some features like unusual composition and shallow depth of field will assist you in making some outstanding abstract shots.
If you use a backdrop, you can capture interesting close-up shots of the tummy and try experimenting with background colors and lighting.
4. Make Sure Partners And Other Children Are In The Frame
To make the maternity photography session even more meaningful and emotional, you can add brothers, sisters or partners.
The parents-to-be being surrounded by joy and happiness can genuinely make the maternity photos exceptional, notes Geelong celebrant Jermaine Clarke. He says “more and more couples are opting to have maternity shoots completed. When the whole family is involved, the mother will feel more relaxed, which is essential when it comes to posing.”
When the whole family is present, another good thing that happens is that there are multiple options when it comes to making poses. You can showcase the interactions between them with some grand gestures like kisses and hugs.
5. Nudity (Comfort Levels Are Different For Everyone)
A bit of nudity here and there might appear spontaneous and very natural during maternity sessions.
Still, it would help if you always asked the mother-to-be how much nudity they are comfortable with.
In spite of your personal beliefs, don’t push people to show more than they are willing to. To make the mother-to-be more comfortable with certain poses, show her sketches of the poses you will be shooting so that she sees your ideas and make a decision whether the poses will include nudity.
6. What To Wear
You can begin with simple wardrobe options because they are very flattering.
Popular styles include:
- Clean cuts
- Monotone clothing
- Soft textures
These will work great in maternity photography. You can also start with lighter colors like a tunic, beige tank, or white to make a classic ethereal aesthetic.
Every mother-to-be has their own style, so it can be best warming up with a few shots before getting more experimental.
7. Make The Session As Comfortable As Possible
Your number one priority should be comfort.
Whether you’re shooting a mum-to-be, or you’re the talent in front of the camera, ensuring everyone is comfortable will result in the best photos.
For this reason, begin with the easy poses then gradually move up to more challenging ones.
For example, you start your photography session by sitting on the floor with a blanket, you can move to standing poses after a few successful shots.
Melbourne beauticians Ink Cosmetica say that comfort also comes from the styling. They explain “pregnant women may feel self conscious about their bodies, with the presence of a camera only adding to the pressure. Small touches like make-up or hair styling can reduce the nerves and ensure the finished product looks incredible.”
Additionally, ensure that the shoot is never too cold or too warm. If your talent is wearing underwear for the poses, always cover her with a blanket or robe when not shooting to make sure of her comfort and privacy.
Are you looking for reliable, experienced maternal photography? Reach out to Sam Crawford for free quotes and advice.