People’s interest in maternity photography has really exploded over the last few years. 6 years ago, when I was pregnant with my son, you couldn’t have paid me a million pounds to document myself in that “condition.”
The recent surge in the popularity of documenting this exciting time in a mother’s life is causing me to rethink. The images I see (and take) of these women, are beyond description. They’re beautiful in the kind of way that there simply aren’t words to describe, but that’s OK, because you don’t NEED words. These images make you feel. Photos in this post are from my last marernity session with Gemma in Manchester.
Here, my top tips on how to take beautiful pregnancy photos.
Wait until you're big, but not too big.
You want your belly to be big and beautiful, but you don't want it to be so large that posing and holding different positions for any length of time becomes taxing. I suggests taking photos right around 30 weeks. That's when your belly gets really round but it's not too heavy yet. Of course each pregnancy and pregnant belly is different so use your own stamina as a guide.
Avoid background clutter.
Just like professional photographers, style your backdrop. So think about what's behind you. When choosing your location, avoid standing in front of a messy living room -- or worse, a messy bathroom. Instead, lie mermaid-style on a solid-color couch or tape some ironed white sheets to the wall and -- voila -- an instant studio backdrop. Or change things up and step outside: Pick a tranquil spot in your backyard or nearby park or beach to set up camp. We love the leaning-up-against-a-tree look, or, if you're at the beach, try a profile shot, where you're sitting up and looking out at the sea
Turn off the flash.
The on-camera flash will be a total wash-out. I suggests standing right in front of an open door or window to get great natural light instead. If you're shooting outside avoid midday sun. The best times to go outside are early in the morning or an hour or two before sunset when there's that golden, sun-tanned, highlights-in-the-hair light.
Wear something tight and stretchy.
The whole point of the shoot is to see the gorgeous belly, right? Tight, stretchy clothes will best accentuate all your great curves.
Never wear maternity clothes, since their primary objective is often to feel good on, rather than flatter your shape. I recommend trying some fitted Gap or Old Navy tank tops in solid colors instead.
Skip the florals, plaids, and checks, You want to be able to look back at these pictures in 10 or 20 years and still think the photos look great. Whereas really stylized clothes can get dated, solid darks and neutrals are timeless.
Alternatively, skip clothes entirely. I have a set of sheer curtains , and I use one panel to wrap the breasts and another panel to wrap the belly.
Find a great photographer.
You want someone you feel comfortable with and will have fun around taking your picture. If your husband fits the bill, ask him to take the pics (and also to haul any extra props or equipment). Or plan a fun photo date with one of your girlfriends.
Expecting a little one of your own or know someone who is? Contact http://www.monikasportraitphotography.com/#!contact/c23a6 to schedule your baby’s session.
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