If you are willing and able to do multiple shoots, try documenting your growth. Take the first shot when you first become pregnant, then, beginning at month 3 (earlier or later depending on your body & when you begin to show) take one photo a month. Choose a specific place and angle- that way the only thing changing is your belly. In the end you can print them out, bind them together, and make a fun flipbook of your belly as it grows!
Choose the right photographer
First, ask your husband to be the photographer. Not only will these be special because of the pregnancy, but also an intimate experience for the two of you. I also recommend enlisting a close friend or hiring a photographer whom you’re comfortable with to take additional photos. That way you can embrace the opportunity to have your husband in a few of the shots with you.
Have options for clothing
I always suggest bringing 3 different outfits:
1. Bra & Panty set- this shot is for you and your husband. Show off your sexy new body, and embrace that part of the pregnancy. Lingerie will definitely show the most off.
2. Yoga pants and a tank top- this will be great to show to your in-laws, co-workers, or anyone else who is anxious to see you pregnant. This is still form fitting, yet modest.
3. A button down shirt (even one of your husbands!) and some boy-short type panties- always a classic look. This always seems to work beautifully for pregnancy photos. It also bridges the gap between lingerie and yoga pants.
Involve your other children
If you have other children, bring them into the photographs and encourage them to interact with you and your belly. Ask them to talk to their baby brother or sister- it will be not only special for you, but the interaction will make an amazing photo opportunity.
Play around with angles
Since most of the weight you’ll gain is in your belly, shooting straight on often gives the illusion that you’re not (or are hardly) pregnant! Turn to show your profile. Also, keep in mind that the photographer’s eye level should be slightly below yours- shooting from above elongates and gives a slimming effect, while shooting from too far below, achieves the opposite result.
Shoot in Black & White
Black and white strips away any and all distractions in the image (background clutter, clashing colors, etc) and really brings the focus to you. It is classic, timeless, and always beautiful.
Make the location special
Shoot in the soon to be nursery, even if it isn’t finished. This will be of special significance to you every time you view the photos. Another great option is your bedroom- the key is to shoot somewhere that you feel comfortable, relaxed and happy.
Consider the lighting
Position yourself near a window and turn off your flash. Window light provides beautiful natural light and helps you avoid the harsh light from a flash indoors. If you feel that you need additional light- bring in a lamp. Just keep in mind that different types of light bulbs will cause different color shifts in the photo- typical household light bulbs will cause a very warm shift which can be beautiful, but if you don’t want that look, try shooting in black & white.
Wait as long as possible for the final shoot
The larger your belly, the more there will be to photograph! I typically suggest no sooner than 7 months, and if possible, within weeks of your due date. The bigger the better!
A few photo suggestions
A few shots that I always suggest are: one 3/4 length shot of yourself, meaning from your knees to just above your head, one a bit tighter- from the bottom of belly to top of your head, and one of just your belly. Shoot them all with your profile to the camera. Also, be adventurous and try different angels, sitting, standing, even lying on your side; however, if you’re short on time- these are the three key shots to get.
Be creative!!
Embrace your curvy silhouette! Try shooting your profile while you are backlit against a window. Make sure your flash is off. You’ll find a fun way to achieve the artistic and retro effect of silhouetting.
Don’t be nervous
There is no right or wrong. Play some relaxing music and remove any distractions or extra people from the room. Create a serene environment where you can look at your belly, connect with your baby, and really embrace the joy of the moment. Avoid looking into the lens and smiling for every photo. Remember things do not have to be perfect! Relax, take a deep breath, and just be you! The more your personality is able to come thru, the more meaningful and personal the photographs will be. Make it fun- laughing and smiling naturally add to the photographs and the experience of taking them.
About the Author
Raised in a Kansas suburb, Amy first studied painting and drawing at the KC Art Institute and then later, photography at Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara. She now lives in and works in the East Village of NYC with her husband Brian, and their many loving pets. Amy’s work explores the ideologies of womanhood and the secret lives and fantasies of women. She approaches her subjects as more of a film director than photographer, and strives to promote self-esteem and a positive body image in women. Amy's work has been widely exhibited and her commercial clients include Sephora, Nars Cosmetics, Bloomingdales, Hallmark, Funky Lala, Woman's World and Parenting Magazine, among others.
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