When it comes to creating gorgeous maternity photos, sometimes half the battle is getting the mom-to-be to be in the mood to be in front of the camera.
It's hard being pregnant, and all the discomfort, long nights, and stress can make moms feel less than photo-worthy.
But you can help set the tone for a successful maternity shoot by doing a few things that will help the expecting mom feel like the beautiful woman she is.
Here's three easy tips that will help you get the best photos the next time you're working with a mom-to-be.
Head to the Beach
Granted, not all of us live near the beach, but if you do, it's a great setting for a maternity photography shoot.
Think about it...
The cool, ocean breeze, the soothing sounds of the waves coming in, the great light from a sunset shimmering off the water - what's not to like?!
It's a relatively easy place to shoot, as well.
Looking at the image above, you can see just how peaceful the setting is, which will relax your mom-to-be, and there's great lighting, too, assuming you time your session to coincide with golden hour.
If there's not a beach handy, try a shot near a lake, pond, or stream.
Again, you can capitalize on the serenity of the landscape to help mom feel relaxed while using the surrounding colors and visual elements to create a dynamic photo.
In the example above, the cool, crisp surroundings give the image a laid-back vibe, and when paired with the bold, saturated colors of the formal gown the model is wearing, you get an interesting combination that's quite visually appealing.
If you're working with warm lighting, like in the first image, suggest a wardrobe of more muted colors, like whites, pinks, and beiges. If you're working with cool lighting, like in the second image, go for something a little bolder and saturated to help bring more attention to the model.
Learn More:
- How-To Maternity Photography: Photographing Mom Outdoors
- 5 Insanely Beautiful Maternity Photography Ideas
Try a Prop
Props are a great way to help mom feel a little extra special, particularly if it's something like a floral crown.
I mean, who doesn't like flowers?!
In the image above, notice how the floral crown adds a bit of brightness and texture to the shot.
But the crown is also effective from the standpoint of making mom feel pretty.
There's an elegance about the flowers that is only enhanced by the model's beautiful, flowing gown.
If you make mom look like a million bucks, she'll feel like a million bucks, and that confidence will be on full display in your maternity photos!
Learn More:
- How-To Maternity Photography: Using Props Effectively
- How-To Maternity Photography: Tips for Making Her Feel Beautiful
Bring in the Family
Another great way to create a relaxed, beautiful, and meaningful maternity photo is to include mom's family in the shot.
Not only will she be more likely to have a calm demeanor in front of the lens with a loved one by her side, but it's also a great opportunity for you to show off the relationships that will be important for the coming baby.
In the image above, the way that mom and dad are looking down at their coming child gives this shot a sweetness and authenticity that they're sure to cherish.
What's more, the way that mom and dad are connected to the baby bump - by the placement of their hands - shows their love for their baby and their dedication to fostering a relationship with it when it's born.
But significant others aren't the only ones that can be in a maternity photo.
Involving other kids in a few shots is an ideal way to help them feel as though they're part of the process and helps you highlight yet another important relationship in the life of the mom-to-be.
In the image above, you can see the happiness of mom as she's holding her little boy.
And notice the manner in which she's holding him so as not to impede the view of her baby bump.
She looks confident, beautiful, and content - and that's due to her little boy being in the shot (and the incredible gown she's wearing, too!).
Learn More:
- How-To Maternity Photography: Focus on Emotions and Relationships
- 11 Gorgeous Mommy and Me Photos (and Tips for Taking Them Yourself)
And there you have it! Three easy, yet impactful tips that will help you get the most out of your photo shoots with pregnant clients.
Just remember - the harder you work to help a mom-to-be feel beautiful, the better the photos that will result!
Try each of these ideas and see which one works best for your specific clients. You might just find that it's hard to choose just one, and instead, find yourself incorporating each into your workflow.
About Sew Trendy
This is a company that photographers absolutely need to be in touch with. Their gowns, crowns, and other high-quality accessories are just what you need for maternity photos, photos of newborns, mommy and me sessions, and portraits. These accessories not only make your clients look and feel great, but they also add a depth of detail and interest to your photos that elevate the images to an entirely other level. What started out with just a few people manufacturing these eye-catching items is a growing business that provides accessories to photographers worldwide. Help your clients look and feel their best by partnering with Sew Trendy Accessories.