How to create stunning maternity photography
Enjoy the wonder of this wonderful time in your life
Pregnancy is often a moment that is not cherished: nine months of counting down until you get the beautiful child in your arms. However, you will not be pregnant forever, and trust us when we tell you that that you will not regret having photos of your pregnancy and memories to cherish.
With just a little bit of study and self-assessment, you can make your amazing maternity photographs. The trick is to know the various styles of photography and how to use the best ones to create stunning pictures. Therefore, whether you’re enjoying during pregnancy or battling unending discomfort, you should consider celebrating your bump by taking an image shoot.
We’ll go over the six steps that will guarantee you capture the joy of this incredible moment in your life and create stunning maternity photos.
What is the definition of maternity photography?
Maternity photos are a unique type of photography that captures the intimate connection between a mother and her baby-to-be. During this special time in a woman’s life, she is experiencing the miracle of pregnancy and preparing to meet her child. These photos should reflect the emotion of this new, uncertain, and exciting stage.
1. Research the market to find your style
As with most things, getting started is the hardest part. Spark inspiration by exploring maternity photos from professional collections. A quick Google or Pinterest search of ‘maternity photos’ will yield countless images from which you can choose a particular approach. When browsing examples, it is imperative to consider both your comfort level and the feasibility of producing similar results based on location, wardrobe, and technique. Browse the MILK Gallery for inspiration from our community of new parents.
2. Make a mood board
While researching the market for stunning maternity photography, make a mood board to help you visualize the final product. A mood board is essentially a collection of images that reflect the color palette, poses, and lighting setup you would like to use in your maternity photo shoot. The result should assist you and your photographer in selecting and preparing the elements to support your vision. A few classic themes are:
* Romantic and whimsical
* Dramatic and pensive
* Lighthearted and fun
3. Pick the right photographer
Now that you know what type of photos you are trying to achieve, it’s important to choose a professional, friend, or other loved one who ‘gets you’ and can deliver the results you’re after.
* Let them snap a few candid photographs of you.
* Make sure you are at ease asking for what you need.
* Check availability and flexibility right from the beginning.
If you intend to shoot the photos yourself, be sure to organize the right equipment, such as a tripod, as well as any lighting equipment you require.
4. Plan the time of day and location for your maternity shoot
Your mood board should lead seamlessly to choosing the setting for your maternity photo shoot. While you can’t plan the weather, you can do your best to set the stage for appropriate lighting and decor.
* Pick an outdoor photo session to allow your photographs to reflect the seasons during your pregnancies.
Sunset and sunrise provide the most stunning natural light for outdoor maternity photos.
* Indoor photography needs the right lighting. But don’t fret that you don’t need an expensive studio setup in order to accomplish this. Lights that are simple to attach and stand-alone are readily available and cost-effective.
* If you’re aiming to create a sunny or cloudy background, make sure your photographer is able to accommodate this.
5. Create your props and poses
By choosing a few poses and settings, you can ensure that your photos look far more professional than if you try to wing them on the day. Try on your chosen outfit(s) and simulate the poses in the mirror. If you plan to use props, make sure they suit the color scheme and vibe of the mood you aim to achieve. A few classic poses include:
* Profile pictures showing mom with her baby
* Photos of bare tummy
* Photos of your other children snuggling the bump
* Couple shots
Include your beloved family pet.
6. Get in the moment and find your groove
Your maternity photos will look much more polished with some planning and practicing beforehand. When the day of your maternity photoshoot comes, you should ideally be well-rested and ready to enjoy the process. At this point, all of the preparation and planning are done, and it’s time to enjoy celebrating your pregnancy in front of the camera.
Let the emotions be triggered.
* Perform the poses you have practiced first, and then play around with them.
Be flexible and be ready to accept whatever comes your way. Don’t be afraid to trust the process!
