I met this gorgeous couple for a sunset shoot outdoors in a reasonably quiet location for their bump shoot. Maternity photography has really started to be popular in the UK over the last 3-4 years we always seem to lag behind trends in America. Women are encouraged to embrace their changing shape and the miracle of creating a perfect little baby that is going to steal your heart. Thank goodness with the power of social media we may feel a bit frumpy and overweight being pregnant, but I’ve noticed a real change in pregnant ladies wanting to capture their beautiful bumps. Of course the amazing Annie Leibovitz imortalised the actress Demi Moore in the 90’s when magnificient bumps were usually hidden, making the cover of Vanity Fair – Time Magazine listed Demi’s photo as one of the top 100 most influential photos of all time – women really were expected to cover up and were very repressed about the most natural thing in the world.
One of the most questions I am asked is when is the best time to take maternity photos, usually photos are taken at around 34-35 weeks, but it can be done earlier, if it’s not your first and you’ve got a massive bump or are carrying more water or due to give birth early then earlier is good too. I provide maternity gowns and have a collection of maternity gowns in different colours and beautiful fabrics. Some families choose lifestyle maternity photography which is usually just taken in your own clothes, or underwear. There are no hard and fast rules, and it’s definitely worth talking to a photographer if you’re unsure to see what type of style would suit you.
Top Tips for getting the best from your maternity/bump shoot
- Find a photographer you connect with – having a good rapport and feeling comfortable will make for relaxed photos
- If you feel uncomfortable in a position mention it to your photographer, a good photographer should check you aren’t on the floor for too long and you’re okay getting up and down
- Sometimes you book a photographer on a couple of images you like but their style can be different, ask questions about what to wear and don’t be afraid to say you don’t want to show off your boobies or if you are a bit shy don’t want your bump exposed. This will help guide your photographer into getting the best from you
- Research different photographers and find someone whose work you absolutely love – if you like posed studio work find a studio photographer – you can ask if they have a portfolio of maternity images – I keep my main one password protected
This lovely family now have their new little baby – I’m just finishing off his photos from his newborn shoot. Theo should be coming to the blog shortly.
If you would like to see some more of my maternity images including milk bath and studio bump images click on the link https://www.lizwoodphotography.co.uk/suffolk-essex-maternity-photographer/