Show Off Your Bump

Is your bump the cutest one on the block? Do you have far away friends and family that you wish you could share your magical pregnancy journey with? Gina and Daniel are expecting their first child and both originally from Australia. They’re calling the artsy area of Dumbo, Brooklyn their home away from home. We did a maternity session there to give their overseas parents and siblings a glimpse into their “growing world”. You could hire a local portrait photographer too or have your favorite photo enthusiast snap some photos of you. Here are some tips to make your shoot modern, gorgeous and uniquely yours.

Be a hot mom. Go natural or glamorous, but spend some time pampering yourself. You deserve it after all – you’re making a life in there! A mani-pedi is a must-have indulgence. You may also want to get your hair and makeup done before your shoot. Better yet, have a hair and makeup artist come along to beautify you on set and stay for at least the first few frames. Review the shots in camera together and they’ll be able to make some subtle adjustments to your look.

Be stylish. Start with your own wardrobe. Choose an outfit to flatter your bump and another to show off your bare belly like a tight-fitting tank or sports bra paired with jeans. Then pull daddy-to-be’s wardrobe as if you’re making one complete outfit. They do not have to match in color, but using the same family of tones works well in photographs (such as deep bold hues or soft pastels). Mix in neutrals liberally. Solid colors or subtle patterns are the easiest to put together and will let the attention go to your pregnant belly.

Be one with your environment. Whether you live near the beach or in a hip urban neighborhood like Gina and Daniel, showcase your world. It tells a story about where you are during this extraordinary and everything’s-about-to-change time. Plus real spaces are often striking and will add interest to your shots. If you do shoot outdoors, the hours right before sunset are just amazing.

Will you or did you share your maternity photos? How? A web gallery, prints, a photo book, Facebook?

Leila is a NYC kids lifestyle photographer who writes a monthly blog called Foto Shui – make your photos flow. Hair and makeup by jo-anndilorenzo.com.