There are few things I love more than being able to photograph a couple before they become parents and again a few days after they welcome their baby into the world. Maternity sessions are full of excitement, anticipation, chats about baby names and nursery colors, and are always a lot of fun. It is a great way for me to meet my clients before the newborn session, get a sense of their personality and style, which enables me to create a truly unique and custom newborn session.
While I do get shots of mom-to-be on her own, the majority of the session is spent focusing on creating beautiful images of the parents together. Often times these are the last photos the couple has before their little one arrives and is a little reminder of their life before baby.
How to create flattering poses for the mom-to-be:
For pregnant women, I often have them turn their belly toward the light, angle their upper body back toward the camera, and pop their knee up (the one closest to the camera). This creates pleasing shadows on the face, and nice soft light on the belly.
For forward facing poses, it is best to have women bring one knee slightly across their other knee which immediately creates a curve along the hip (always more flattering than straight legs).
During sessions, it is often overwhelming as a photographer to remember all the tips and tricks for posing, so if you can remember one thing- Never put weight on both feet at one time (keeping one heel lifted creates a lighter looking pose).
Once I have mom posed, I add the partner, making sure there is some connection between all three subjects (mom, dad, baby bump). I also love to shoot the couple from far away, letting them interact and chat while I photograph candid moments.
Below are some of my favorite recent maternity portraits taken around Chicago, enjoy!
