In this article we explore the very popular genre of maternity and prenatal photography, we’ll look at ideas for how to pose your subjects, how to style the scene and also how to tackle the scene from a technical point of view with lighting and camera setting ideas.
Pregnancy can be a tough time for expectant mothers (at the time of writing this my wife is pregnant), some days are just ‘off’. Why do I mention this? Because you never know what’s really going on in someone’s life when they walk through your studio door. You don’t know how they’re feeling, if the baby is kicking them and they need to pee all the time, or if they have other kids and they’ve had a tough morning getting them off to school.
That’s why it’s oh so important to make sure that you know exactly what you’re going to do and how you’re going to execute your plan, well before your subject arrives.
You want to keep the environment calm and free of any stress. You want your client to have a seamless and professional experience and to feel generally looked after. Cups of tea, calming music, soft lighting, comfy seats. All these little details will make it a wonderful experience.
This is important for a second reason, and that’s for your marketing.
Mums typically know lots of other mums, and word of mouth is by far the best marketing tool. Children are always changing and parents love having pictures of them, so your efforts now will compound over time, make it count!
Beautiful Pregnancy & Maternity Photoshoot Ideas & Poses
Don’t be fooled, maternity photography is hard!
The biggest mistake I see photographers make is concentrating solely on the bump and forgetting all the most basic and fundamental aspects of what makes an interesting photograph.
The bump is a single shape, so if you zone in on it too much, it doesn’t leave much space for variety, so you need to think of the shoot as a whole.
Here’s some examples of pregnancy shoots done well.
Utilise Natural Light
This is one of the best images I came across when researching pregnancy photoshoot ideas. It combines what I think are all the key elements for making a beautiful image.
It captures the essence of the shot, the pregnant belly – this is of course a must.
But you can see from examining it in close detail, all the elements have been considered.
The delicate voile material adds softness and catches the light. The time if day, golden hour, is very flattering for portraits.
The styling – her skull contrasts brilliantly with the soft pinks.
The floating bits of dust are backlit, further adding to the ethereal nature of the image. Having a baby truly is a miracle, a gift from nature, so capturing this essence in the image is very important if you want knockout portraits.
The hand placement is relaxed and appears natural.
The lighting on the face is flattering, the backlight highlights the shape of the face.
The soft focus, possibly with a Petzval lens, again adds the ethereal and divine nature of the shot.
The outwardly pointed leg creates a dynamic shape, is flattering for the subject and offers contrast against the flowing nature of the dress.
Some notes…
I think the branch in the foreground should be edited out, it adds nothing to the picture.
The shadow that her neck is casting on her hair I find a bit distracting, it makes her neck look thin and accentuates the pout too much.
Other than that great work.
If you want to recreate this style look at how Petzval lenses render out of focus areas. If you’ve watched the new Yurgos film Poor Things you’ll see it in action, he uses it alot.
Notice how the background is all swirly. That’s a Petzval lens. Using it in your maternity shoots would create a sense of wonder, and also zero the eye into the subject.
To nail the pose, have your model put all their weight on their back foot, this then frees up the front leg to be positioned more daintily, with pointed toes, creating an interesting and dynamic shape.
Silhouetted Pregnancy Pose
This is a classic and should be relatively easy to recreate in a home studio.
There a re two lights in this shot, one on the right and one on the left.
How to improve it:
Her shoulders look a bit hunched which makes her look uncomfortable, combine that with the hair over the shoulder and the elegance of the neck is lost.
When looking down at the bump it can be difficult to not get a double chin, so make sure the next is extended and the posture is good to create a flattering silhouette.
Notice as well how the gap between the body and the arm creates separation and makes her shape more elegant.
The bum looks great here too (may have been photoshopped, but who cares) it creates a lovely alternating curve in the opposite direction to the bump and creates balance.
The silhouette shot works really well because the light naturally wraps itself around the subject and creates a soft glow.
Silhouetted with a window
Again, fairly simple to recreate at home, make sure you’ve got a diffuse material over the window to create the soft background, otherwise the objects outside and the bars on the window become too distracting.
Shoot wide open, f1.4 or 1.8, to completely separate your subject from the background.
How to improve it:
Notice the difference in this image compared to the one above?
The hair being up exposes the neck and aids the shape and elegance of the image. It helps elongate the subject as well which is really important when photographing a subject which is dominated by the shape of the belly.
The angle of the elbow as well works brilliantly to create angular contrast against the roundness of the belly.
The window curtains create a lovely frame within a frame, and the diffuse net curtain adds a welcome softness.
The area to improve would be the hand positioning. Think of how a ballet dancer places their hands, always with grace and elegance. Keep the fingers together. Where the hand meets the waist the shape and definition is lost and it looks a bit odd, maybe placing the hand on the lower back would have created a more aesthetically pleasing result. If you look at it, the fingers on the belly look a bit like a face, so yeah, shapes can look weird in silhouette if not considered.
Lean, arch and twirl – break up the body shape for dynamic poses
The use of white for the outfit is a clever one. It signifies purity and love. The lace elements give beauty and a feeling of being delicate, and it also helps to break up the shape of the dress so it’s not one single block tone.
Time of day is everything in this picture, you have to be shooting at sunset.
This same shot in the midday sun just wouldn’t work. The golden hour is a wonderful time to shoot because it gives you options to shoot 360 degrees and there are no harsh shadows from direct light.
Notes:
I really, really like how the direction of the gaze, the flowing angle of the dress and the direction of the horizon line all create tension within the frame. It makes for an incredibly dynamic image.
In the age of Ai and Photoshop, the distractions in the background are unforgiveable. The pylons and the bright white light are huge distractions and the sophisticated elegance of the model is contrasted against man made structures, it could work if it was deliberate, but this just looks like lazy editing.
And…BUY A F***ING IRON
Nothing kills a posed image faster than creased clothing. If your pictures are posed, then you are in control of everything, don’t forget this.
Fashion Inspired Maternity Shoot Ideas
Look at the masters of black and white portraits – Irving Penn, Herb Ritts & Richard Avedon. These were the greats for a reason. High contrast black and white never looked so good.
Herb Ritts in particular, the man understood the human form.
Whilst the ethereal and divine is one way to look at maternity portraits, why not steer it in the direction of high fashion?
The key to making this work look is detail.
You cannot pull this off to a high level without high quality backdrops, make up and hair styling. High quality fabrics are also essential.
How to fake the outdoor look
Natural portraits look amazing in, well, nature. But the reality of dealing with varying degrees of nudity outdoors is an awkward one, so don’t bother, fake it indoors instead.
How? With backdrops, shallow depth of field and clever use of foreground props.
You see these bits of foliage in the foreground? They’re real, but the are cut and then taped to a tripod, or anything to keep it upright.
Bring it close to the camera, so there’s decent separation between the background, model and foreground branches, use a wide open aperture of about f/2, an voila, looks like you’re shooting outdoors.
Convert it to black and white so you’re not having to deal with colour matching your foreground to your background. If you’ve got a modern DSLR or mirrorless I recommend setting it to black and white mode so when you look through the viewfinder you’ll see exactly how it looks.
Notice on this next image where the light is. Her hair is illuminated from the back so there’s definitely a light above her to mimic the sun, more than likely there’s a light to the left as well and maybe a reflector as well at the front for a fill.
I like this shot alot, it’s a great example of using the hands to aid the composition. The arm in the foreground draws the eye down to the belly, and the shape of the belly and the arm behind helps draw the eye back up again to the face.
It creates a closed loop which keeps the eye moving around the picture.
Backdrops to mimic this are relatively easy to find online, the colour versions are how they are sold, I’ve done a basic black and white conversion just so you can see what they’ll look like.
You’ll also be shooting wide open, so the background will be blurred as well. These are from katebackdrop.
BE CAREFUL WHEN BUYING. I’ve seen loads of fake photo backdrop scams recently, people are generating Ai images and listing them on Etsy when they don’t really exist, be vigilant.
Go nude without the nudity
Women’s hair often gets much thicker when they’re pregnant so use it to your advantage.
If your model has long hair you can put together a series of poses where the hair covers the breasts.
I’ve used this image below because it’s done tastefully, but also so you can imagine how easy it would be to use relatively skimpy underwear with very thin straps and then photoshop the straps out afterwards.
Embrace the season
If you’re shooting outdoors, lean into the time of year.
The seasons play a wonderful role in reminding the parents of what was happening around the time their child was born. Use it!
Pregnancy shoot with the husband/partner
Dear men everywhere, please be like this guy…
What do I mean? I mean try. Put in some effort. Put on some new jeans, iron your shirt, be properly groomed.
The amount of maternity shoots I see where the woman has gone to great lengths to look beautiful and then the male partner has just rocked up in rags…sigh…it just looks bad.
The photoshoot is an opportunity for the woman to be pampered, looked after. Hair done, nails, makeup, when you’re bloated and gassy because an infant is kicking your insides, being made to feel lovely for an afternoon is a treat, so don’t be an arse.
Right, anyway, rant over. Here we go, a lovely picture, take a look.
Styling wise this is bang on.
Soft, feminine hair, flowing robes, intimate undies, lacey bits for added femininity, white clothing for purity, backlit to create the sense of the ethereal or divine, frame within a frame with the doorway, it’s wonderful.
Shooting with a partner is really hard because often the men simply don’t want to participate, but this is what you can achieve if you give them exact poses. Shooting through the doorway creates a sense of intimacy, as if you’re looking in on their lives, the touching of the foreheads is delicate and loving. Admittedly he does look a bit off balance, but when you’re working with real people and not models you can’t expect it all.
Add movement to your maternity pics
Movement creates directional flow across an image, it helps the viewers eye move across the picture.
Like all things, not all movement is created equal.
Swooshing dresses for the sake of it make your images look ill thought out and fail to capture the imagination.
Consider the following image for example. The hair, the make up, the outfit, the flower crown, all carefully considered. The setting, the lighting and the movement of the dress however all seem to be afterthoughts, and that’s why it’s a bit boring. There’s nothing in the foreground, the background and her dress are all green so there’s no contrast, the horizon line doesn’t match so it feels disjointed. Her pose is square on and feels blocky.
Similar problems persist here. The outfit, the crown etc, all considered, but they’ve taken the shot in the middle of the day. Bright, high key lighting is not flattering, it’s created strange shadows on the body and created a big black shadow of the subject on the floor in front of her. Remember, if you’re posing your subjects, you are in control of EVERYTHING. And it’s your job to educate your clients on why certain times of day are better than others.
The result? The movement is pretty much pointless because the white cape behind her is overexposed and completely white. It loses it’s texture and because our eyes are drawn to the brightest part of an image essentially just becomes a distraction.
Now, consider this next image.
The subject is static (her pose is wrong though, but that’s another story), but most importantly, the movement has a purpose, it envelopes her and brings directional flow to the picture.
Shooting from above, looking down
This shot works well because you immediately get a sense of the subjects character, this looks like a natural environment for her and her whole demeanour is one of calm. This is the essence of what you’re trying to achieve. If your subject is relaxed, your pictures will be incredible.
Before the shoot always try and get to know your subject as much as possible. This women obviously is into yoga, possibly meditates regularly, and has a healing crystal around her neck. This knowledge will then inform the clothes that you should ask them to wear for the shoot, the location you choose, the styling of hair and make up and the poses that they will feel comfortable in.
This woman seems calm, but confident. Serene, at peace and enjoying her pregnant body.
Holding hands
For styling, make sure that the clothing of the two people compliments each other. Always be specific with your clients, tell them exactly what you want them to wear. If in doubt, go with white. If they say no, well, it’s your job to educate them why it’s important.
Holding hands is such a simple expression of love, it’s wonderful. Get your subjects to look at each other and just keep shooting. You’re looking for that nanosecond of pure love between them.
The leading lines from the road work beautifully here, they draw the eye to the centre of the frame and the subjects.
Shooting at golden hour definitely helps too, there’s no harsh shadows, the light is flattering for both male and female partners and it creates a warm glow.
Use architecture and leading lines
Use the architecture in your area to your advantage.
Leading lines help draw the viewers attention to the subject and frames within frames help to create more interesting compositions.
Make use of the foreground
Too often I see portrait photographers ignore the foreground.
Get as much depth as you can in your images, make use of shallow depth of field and place objects in the foreground too.
Showing the Ultrasound
Cliché? Maybe.
But why not, it’s a magical time, don’t overthink it.
Holding the belly – remove distractions from the background
Such a simple pose, hold the belly with two hands, what could go wrong? How could you f*ck that up? Well, here’s how, by including distractions in the background.
Her dress is white, but the red in the background is in such strong contrast to it that it fights for your attention. Your eyes end up flicking back and forth between what you’re supposed to be looking at and the blob of colour in the background.
Tips from a Pro
I found this video from professional maternity photographer Lola Milani.
I like her work, but don’t be fooled, alot of her pictures are inspired by Sue Bryce (who has an awesome posing guide), and some of the shots in her portfolio look like they’re taken with models and not real people.
That being said, technically the shots are amazing, so lots to gain from learning from her.
Define your colour palette
There is nothing so clear as a fuzzy concept.
I.e if your ideas are not well defined, it will be unbelievably obvious.
Make sure that the idea for you shoot is completely thought out before you try and execute it. The subjects clothes, the colour of the props, the colour of the setting, their skin tone etc. all has to work together.
What to Wear for Your Pregnancy Photo Shoot: Fabrics, Styles, and Accessories
When it comes to dressing for a pregnancy photo shoot, the choices you make can significantly impact the aesthetic and the connotation of your images. If it’s an autumnal theme, don’t choose sportswear, you want knitwear. If it’s Christmas, don’t plan your shoot around Peonies which are out of season. Consider everything about the look you are trying to achieve.
Choosing the Right Fabric
- Jersey Knit: This stretchy, soft fabric is ideal for maternity shoots because it comfortably hugs your curves, emphasizing the baby bump in a flattering way. Its flexibility also allows for a variety of poses without restriction.
- Chiffon: For a more ethereal, flowing look, chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric that drapes beautifully. It’s perfect for creating movement and adding a touch of softness to your photos. Chiffon gowns can create stunning silhouettes and are especially appealing in outdoor settings where the natural light can play through the fabric.
- Lace: Lace adds a touch of elegance and romanticism to your maternity photos. It’s a classic choice that can highlight the special nature of your pregnancy with its intricate patterns. Lace dresses can be form-fitting or loose, depending on your preference, and they work well for both indoor and outdoor shoots.
Styling Your Look
- Form-Fitting Gowns: These gowns are made to accentuate your baby bump and can be very flattering. Look for dresses with ruching at the sides or made from stretchy materials like jersey knit for comfort and style.
- Maxi Dresses: Maxi dresses are not only comfortable but also versatile. They can be casual or elegant, depending on the fabric and design. A flowing maxi dress in chiffon can add a whimsical touch to your photos.
- Wrap Dresses: Wrap dresses are excellent for maternity shoots because they can be adjusted to fit your body perfectly at any stage of pregnancy. They also provide easy access for belly shots if you wish to have some photos taken with your bump exposed.
Accessorizing Your Outfit
- Flower Crowns: These add a natural, whimsical element to your shoot. Flower crowns can be customized to match the color scheme of your dress or the setting of your photo shoot. Local florists or specialty shops often offer bespoke creations.
- Jewellery: Simple, elegant jewellery can complement your outfit without distracting from the main focus—your bump. Consider a delicate necklace or a bracelet that has personal significance.
- Scarves and Shawls: For a touch of colour or texture, consider adding a scarf or shawl. These can be particularly effective for adding variety to your photos, as they can be draped in different ways.
Where to Shop
- Maternity Specialty Stores: Stores such as A Pea in the Pod or Motherhood Maternity offer a wide range of maternity dresses specifically designed for photo shoots, providing both comfort and style.
- Etsy: For unique, handmade items like flower crowns or custom maternity gowns, Etsy is a treasure trove. You can find artisans who specialize in maternity wear and accessories.
- Local Boutiques: Don’t overlook small, local boutiques in your area. They often carry unique pieces that you won’t find elsewhere, and you might just stumble upon the perfect photo shoot outfit.
Choosing what to wear for your pregnancy photo shoot is a personal decision that should reflect your style and the special nature of the photographs you are aiming to capture. By considering the material, style, and accessories, you can create a look that feels true to you and beautifully commemorates this momentous time in your life. Remember, you want it to be comfy and look good, so always consult with your clients about what they are happy to wear, otherwise if they turn up on your doorstep and say they’re allergic to wool when you’ve planned an entire shoot around a cosy jumper…well, best hope you can think quick.
Choosing the Right Equipment
The camera you use is irrelevant in my mind, shoot with whatever you like.
The lens however is a different matter.
You’re going to want a lens that can shoot at a very wide aperture, potentially up to f/1.4.
Focal length wise, wide angle is not your friend. Wide angle lenses distort perspective and will make big things look bigger. Not ideal if you’re trying to take dainty and ethereal portraits. 35mm, 50mm and 85mm should all work perfectly. If you’re just starting out then hire all three and see which focal length works best for you.
This shot is probably 35mm at f1.4
This is probably on an 85mm lens at f1.8
To go completely unique, as mentioned at the top of the post, I’d use a Petzval lens. It will make your work stand out and give you really cool swirly backgrounds.
Don’t @me with this next picture, I know she’s not pregnant, it’s just to show what a Petzval does.
I hope you’ve found this article useful, happy shooting!