Many women find pregnancy uncomfortable. They are experiencing rapid changes in their bodies, which may not be to the satisfaction of all women. Pregnant women often experience acne, swelling, increased weight, and stretchmarks.
Some pregnant women feel great, but many are also self-conscious. Self-consciousness during pregnancy photoshoots can lead to awkward or unnatural photos.
Your #1 goal as a photographer for stunning maternity photos is to make your model comfortable and beautiful. It is crucial to create a relaxed environment for any portrait, and especially maternity pictures. Your model should feel comfortable so that she can have an amazing experience and look great in her photos.
These 8 tips will help models to feel confident during pregnancy shoots. You’re guaranteed to capture beautiful images of this time with a model who is confident, great lighting and a tasteful editing.
Safety First
Safety of the mother is always paramount. You may want to reduce the amount of physical activity you do and limit where you shoot. You could always keep water and snacks on hand. This means that you should always check in with her to make sure she is comfortable, ready and feeling well.
Ensure the model wears something that she loves.
Clothing can have a big impact on a model’s self-confidence. There is no one outfit for every woman. Others prefer looser pants and shirts, whereas others like dresses that are clingy.
This can be more apparent during a pregnancy shoot that focuses primarily on a woman’s figure. The model may not be happy with the focus on her body if she feels unattractive or uncomfortable in the outfit.
Encourage the model to dress however she is most comfortable, even if it means wearing sweatpants with a baggy top. Some photographers like tighter maternity clothing because it shows off the bump better, but you can take great pictures with any outfit. You can ask the model to face the wind or cradle the abdomen if she’s wearing loose clothing.
It’s important that she feels comfortable. It’s okay if she doesn’t like a form-fitting shirt or dress.
Abi Porter, maternity 16 weeks
Choose flattering angles.
The shapes and sizes of women are varied, particularly when pregnant. You won’t always be able use the same angle for every maternity photo shoot. The same shot might be flattering on one model, but not another. Adapt your shots to the unique shapes of each model.
You can take a good straight-on picture with a visible baby bump but not if the bump is more subtle. Some pregnant women appear beautiful, relaxed, and calm when they are sitting, but others, the majority of them, look better when standing.
Women are often aware of which angles they look best or worst from. They may feel more comfortable with some angles. Ask her about this and discuss what she would like to emphasize or conceal.
She may be embarrassed by her chin, but loves the shape of her stomach. By communicating her preferences, you can help build trust and avoid taking pictures she will not like.
Keep in mind to use stories and find meaning.
Incorporate meaningful elements in the photo shoot. It could be a place that is meaningful to the future mother or props that reflect her passions. They will add a narrative to the pictures and they’ll be more than pretty photos. The photos will be more meaningful for the couple and loved ones because they have an emotional connection with their subjects. You can see in the picture below how this couple decided to have their photo session at the university where they first met.
Shoot outside during golden/blue hour.
Depending on your model’s schedule, body rhythm and time of the year, she may also feel more energetic at the start or the end of her day. It’s possible that one of the two will be more effective for her.
If neither of them do (e.g. If she is tired at night, but sunrise comes too early in the morning, skip Golden/Blue Hour. Instead choose a stunning location. A model that feels great is worth more than golden lighting. It is easy to adjust lighting, but it’s more difficult to change a model’s energy or mood.
Matthew Coughlin: 214/365 journey of motherhood
Ask the model to turn away from the lens.
The eyes are the first thing that catches your viewers’ eye. Portrait photography often focuses on the eyes. In maternity photos, however, the viewer should be drawn to the majesty of the pregnant woman. The model’s eyes, if they are looking directly into the camera will distract viewers and reduce the overall impact of the photo.
It can also make some models more relaxed to look away, since it is less personal. You might forget you are taking photos if you have a great conversation with her. This will result in more natural portraits.
Memphis – 5 months of working with patricia Cumplido
Shoot in black and white.
Color photos can seem confrontational when there is a large amount of exposed skin. Any irregularities of skin color, such as acne and spider veins, are visible in colour. Even if your model is gorgeous, she may still be self-conscious about how the blemishes appear in color.
Try shooting black-and-white instead to hide the blemishes. These same irregularities can become less visible or invisible. This approach is useful for maternity photos because pregnant women’s skin can change.
Christopher: Maternity session with Nicole and Tim5.8.12
It is important to ensure that the model feels comfortable in front of you, particularly if it will be used for photos with nudity or partial nudity.
It’s not easy to be pregnant. Pregnancy can cause a great deal of discomfort. From swollen ankles to painful varicose veins, it’s not easy. Plan the shoot with this in mind. Make sure to provide chairs for the crew and allow time for water breaks or bathroom breaks.
It is important to be aware of the comfort level of your model during nude and partially nude photography, as this type shoot is common for maternity photos. Some women prefer to go nude rather than wearing a frumpy outfit for maternity photography. Never force your model to reveal more skin. Instead, discuss her preferences with her beforehand.
Make sure that you are prepared for this kind of photo shoot if your model requests a partially nude photograph. Keep in mind these tips:
- Be sure that someone she can trust is present in the room. This could be her (female friend) partner.
- You can maintain a reasonable distance by using lenses that have longer focal lengths.
- Do not touch her. Ask her friend or partner to reposition something if it needs to.
- Keep a robe or blanket on hand so that she can protect herself in between shots.
- Increase the temperature of her room so that she does not get cold when exposed.
- Prepare your camera and what you will be shooting before the shoot.
- Show your model examples of portraits before you shoot so that she is aware of what to expect.
- Stay professional. Even if this is your first time doing a nudist shoot, act like it’s nothing unusual. You will be affected by her discomfort if you are uncomfortable.
Stay alert to her feelings. Ask her to visualize her child and discuss the pregnancy if she appears tense. Bring the focus away from nudity, to the real purpose of the photo shoot: love, excitement, and the beauty that comes with pregnancy.
Federica Giordano – loveisallaround
Before you buy, ask about the props.
Props are a good way to help models relax. Props can spark a conversation and offer the model some relief if they are tired of the spotlight.
Contrary to other portraits, it is best if the couple or woman provides props for maternity pictures. Props should be personal and related to the upcoming child. Popular props include an ultrasound image, shoes, books, one-pieces, stuffed animals, and stuffed animals. You can also use block letters to spell out the name of your baby.
Be honest with clients about your preferences. You can reject props that don’t suit your style of photography, as long as you communicate this to clients in advance. Your clients will not be disappointed if you don’t use their props.
Mary-Eloise – C&E
Use the movement of the wardrobe to inspire creativity
Try tossing the dress if your subject wears a loose, long gown. This will add drama and intrigue. It may take several tries to get the right result, but it is worth every effort. Here’s an example from Line and Roots. This particular image also includes flash to add interest, and give the aesthetic a dramatic feel.
Engage your partner or family members.
The whole family is affected by pregnancy and childbirth. Include other family members in the maternity photos. Along with the partner, other family members are a good choice. It’s also fun to add a beloved pet.
They can combine two photoshoots if a friend or sister who is pregnant also joins them. This will allow for both individual pictures and photos with a partner. This can make the shoot more memorable and fun, as long as your model is comfortable and enjoys the company of the other people.
Amine Fassi, WilPrZ family :).