I had the hardest time narrowing down my favorites…she was such a good sport as we tried so many different things. The walking was worth it for these beautiful shots, I just love how they make her glow with light. Though the ones with a simple black background and classic composed portrait is dramatic and elegant…I can’t resist making those my favorites too. Ashlen, you look perfect! 
When I saw this I knew it was the perfect one for a sneak peek. It makes me love being a maternity photographer when I capture an image like this for someone. To me everything about it is beautiful, especially this gorgeous expecting mama.
From bare skin to bold color, this session was so beautiful. Using natural light for some dramatic pregnancy portraits, it was actually like maternity boudoir…making her gorgeous expecting mother curves into fine art. After the indoor portraits we headed outside to take advantage of the nice weather and I just loved the vivid colors and pattern of the flowy dress against the textures of nature. Very much looking forward to meeting her baby boy next month and sharing those photos too!
I love that this mom wanted to include some photos of the foods she craved during her pregnancy, grapes being the most memorable…that was such fun! She had such a cute baby belly…now just to find out if its a girl or boy…how can she stand not knowing?!? hehe. I feel lucky to have been given the chance to photograph this part of her journey as she becomes a mother and I cannot wait to meet baby (and Daddy) next month!
With the Dad expected home the day baby is due, this family will be sharing some wonderful moments together soon – so I wanted to share my favorites from her session before their arrival. She was one of the sweetest people I’ve met and can only imagine her little girl will be bringing such joy to their home. Oh and I’m sure she’ll have her big brother wrapped around her little finger as soon as she arrives.
This maternity session proves that bare is so beautiful. The mom wasn’t afraid to show off her pregnant curves and that led to so many dramatic and artistic photos. The connection between her and her son is already so strong and I can see it in the photos from today. She shared with me the 3D ultrasound images of her little boy and they were so adorable, he kept smiling! I can’t wait to meet him and I’m hoping he’ll smile for me too.
It was such a perfect day to spend outdoors today, so I thought I would share two photos from outside. I can’t wait to meet baby – and to find out if it’s a boy or a girl – that’s right, its a surprise! Momma has been craving sweets and fruit, so I’m thinking girl…but who knows…maybe it’ll be a sweet little boy.
Here is a sneak peek of today’s session with J. She is a mother to an adorable little boy, but this time is expecting a girl! [J - I know I said two, but really I thought this one was just so WOW that I wanted to make it the only one for now, I promise your others will be up soon!] This was such an easygoing session…her calming personality just made everything seem so effortless.
The good news about maternity sessions is…almost anything goes. The main thing to keep in mind regarding attire is – the more fitted, the better – we want clothes that are going to show off your beautiful bump! If you feel good in a white tank and jeans, thats a great go-to. If you prefer a beautiful long skirt that fits under your belly or a long fitted dress that makes you feel ultra-feminine, those are great choices also.
Remember, you can always change clothes during the session. Everyone has different levels of modesty and so we’ll discuss in advance if you want to remain fully covered or if you would like to try a few very tasteful bare poses. Here are some more ideas and tips to consider:
Tanks & Blouse
A tank top, scoop neck t-shirt, or strapless top that is clingy/stretchy for covering your top and exposing/revealing your belly (too loose and your belly will no longer be the focus) is perfect. Solid colors such as white, black, brown, gray, navy or soft neutral colors photograph well. A buttoned down blouse/shirt (soft, flowing, drapey fabrics/linen/cotton-one of your own or one of his works well too.) This can have an interesting sleeve or tone on tone pattern/stitching/ruffles, or a long sweater that can be fastened above your belly. Fitted and cropped blouses are great for showing off your belly too.
Bras & Accessories
If you have a strapless bra or bandeau bra, that will come in handy for many photos. A beautiful lace bra and panties can be worn for intimate shots and can be any color. If you would like a nice “legs” shot, then have your favorite heels available. Jewelry is best kept to a minimum, usually only your wedding ring is preferred. I will bring a few bandeau bras and accessories so that we have options available.
Pants & Skirts
Jeans, yoga pants, and soft skirts are great options. Linen and other fabrics that drape look feminine and soft. Wraps are GREAT! Wraps that drape and can work as long skirts or can be used to cover parts of you, especially if modesty is preferred, can be very pretty. I have various fabrics I’ll be bringing to choose from as well. Your pants/jeans/skirts should not have maternity panels – they do not photograph well. Instead, wear regular jeans that can be unzipped or unbuttoned under your belly.
Hair & Make Up
I recommend wearing make-up for your session even if you don’t normally, and its a good idea to have finger/toenails groomed. Lotion and lip gloss will be great for the close-ups.
Props
Baby shoes, a special little stuffed animal or toy, and your ultrasound image are perfect props. Feel free to explore your creativity here, anything unique or fun or memorable of your pregnancy is perfect. If you would like, bring hats or fun sunglasses for outdoor photos.
Other Family Members
Men should wear jeans, khaki pants or any other dark pants. I encourage a simple polo or a nice crew-neck. Layers work great, especially if we head outside. If your other children will be in a few of the photos, either consider the tips on what to wear for families or just let them be their everyday self to keep them as happy and cooperative as possible.
Keeping your attire simple allows for the focus to stay on you and your belly and not draw the eye to patterns and colors in fabrics. Your wardrobe should be free of logos, pictures and writing (unless its “Bun in the Oven” or the like). Avoid wearing items that constrict your skin leaving behind marks (socks, waistbands, etc). And remember, you can always change clothes half way through the session if you want some sexy dressed up photographs and some more casual ones – it gives you different “looks” to choose from later.
If you have any questions, please put them in the comments or send me an email and I’ll post the answer here for everyone.
This couple is expecting their first baby (a boy) in March and she couldn’t have a more perfect pregnant bump. I loved that you loved the barn, I loved that you loved the dramatic lighting, and I am so looking forward to your baby boy’s big arrival!
