I’ve been photographing the figure for the better part of twenty years, and every figure is a work of art, perhaps never more so when showing the amazing things the body is capable of.
If you’re looking to remember your pregnancy with a work of Maternity Art then we should definitely talk.
It’s also worth saying that while for some people art might be revealing, for others it’s not, and that’s just fine.
No matter what your concept of Maternity Art is, I’m sure we can create it together.
Being in front of the camera might feel like a daunting prospect, most of us just aren’t used to it. What I can say though, is having taken thousands upon thousands of photographs, for most clients that initial nervousness evaporates very quickly.
Time and again I hear clients say things like:
“I didn’t think I could do that, but I’m so glad I did!“
“I can’t believe that’s me.“
“It just felt so comfortable and natural.”
Hi-key is a style that’s soft, light, and bright, perfectly suited to a maternity shoot.
With a hi-key shoot the light feels like it’s wrapping around everything, giving a warm and comfortable feeling.
This type of lighting is flattering and feminine, and can be achieved in the studio as well location.
Everybody has different tastes. That’s why a photoshoot should always be a collaboration between photographer and subject.
One of the first questions I ask any client is “what do you want from this?” You might not be sure and that’s OK, I have plenty of inspiration images and mood boards that we can look at together to help design and style a shoot.
For most shoots there’s plenty of time to capture at least three different styles, so you’ll have opportunity to try some different styles and see what works best for you.
This kind of low-key lighting balances dramatic shadows with highlighting of those things we want to emphasise (that beautiful bump!)
When you book your shoot you’ll receive a style guide with helpful tips on clothing choice, as well as personal assistance in selecting pieces that feel comfortable for you.
We can also dip in to our studio wardrobe and props cupboard for beautiful robes, drapes, lace, textures, and more.
One quick tip, it’s always better to bring it and not need it, than to need it and not have it! Your photographer is never going to tell you that you brought too many options with you!
Look for clothes that fit comfortably and give shape to your baby bump. Many clients find that by late in their pregnancy their partner’s jeans are a great option, and stretchy dresses, lingerie, and flowing pieces all tend to work well.
Some people are worried that a retouched image will not look like them, others that retouching will be taken too far.
For your images we’ll talk about retouching both before and after the shoot, with an opportunity for you to decide (using your own images) exactly what sort of retouching you want.
All finished images are prepared to a high quality but typically ‘keeping it real’, and a little like good makeup, high quality retouching should barely be noticed in the final image.
OK, there’s probably only so much relaxing you can do when you’re growing a new human, but give it a go…
Seriously though, your maternity shoot shouldn’t be a stressful affair. Get your makeup done before you come or I can recommend someone to do it for you in studio, choose outfits that suit your style and personality, go big with flowers and drapes or keep it low-key, it’s all up to you.