Abba Color Photography

I think maternity photography gets a bad reputation sometimes...

It seems to me that some photographers are scared to death to try to document an expecting mother's experience.

I'd chalk that up to the stress of the situation, not unlike being responsible for photographing a wedding.

But maternity photography doesn't have to be scary; there are plenty of easy tips and tricks you can use to get gorgeous shots.

Use Flattering Angles

Stevie Cruz Photography

An expecting mother might ask, "What flattering angles?"

But despite how she feels, there are some angles that look better than others and can improve her appearance.

For example, by having the model angle herself at about 45-degrees from the camera, you can get a nice view of the belly without getting a view of the model's backside.

This helps slim her profile somewhat, but you still see that beautiful baby bump.

Annie Whitaker Photography

Angling the model also works for full-body shots, like the one seen above.

Notice how the right leg is bent, which not only slims the legs but also gives a nice curvature to that area of the body.

You can also see the curvature of the model's back, which accentuates the curvature of her torso, adding visual interest to the shot.

Outfitting the model in a form-fitting lace gown only tops off this gorgeous look.

Learn More:

• Five Crazy Beautiful Maternity Photography Poses
• Things to Do (and Not to Do) For Gorgeous Maternity Photography

Show Some Skin

Abba Color Photography

Usually, when someone refers to showing skin in the context of a maternity shoot, they're talking about having a bare baby bump.

And while that's a worthwhile shot, you should also consider helping mom feel beautiful and sexy by showing skin elsewhere.

As you can see in the image above, this mother looks gorgeous in the skin-tight bodysuit.

Not only do we get to see the beautiful baby bump, but we also get to see mom's shoulders, arms, and legs, making for a sultry photo.

Pregnancy doesn't often make expecting mothers look sexy; but by outfitting them with smart wardrobe choices and having them show a little skin, you have a change to get a beautiful maternity photo and help mom feel a bit more beautiful as well.

Learn More:

• Essential Tips for Preparing Your Pregnant Client for Her Photo Shoot
• Simple Strategies to Make Your Maternity Clients Look Good

Go for High Drama

Mary Gardner Photography

Ask any woman that's been pregnant, and she'll probably tell you that it's not the most glamorous nine months of her life.

But that doesn't mean that you can't make an expecting mom look glamorous in her maternity photos. All you need is a little drama!

In the image above, the drama comes from two sources - the explosion of colors in the background and the showstopping gown the model is wearing.

In the case of the background, the bright, warm colors immediately draw your attention, while the reflection of the colors in the wet sand doubles the impact of the orange and yellow tones.

On the other hand, the deep blue color of the dress contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the sunset, and that long train extending behind the model is immediately eye-catching.

Lori Dorman & Co Photography

In this example, we see once again how light and color can be used to create a highly dramatic image.

The bright, white light emanating from the background gives this shot a clean, bright, and fresh look.

Paired with the intense pink color of the model's dress and chair, along with the texture-filled rug and the chandelier above the model, you have the makings of yet another drama-filled shot that is sure to make mom feel like the beautiful woman she is.

Light, color, texture...any of these elements will help you ratchet up the drama in your maternity photos!

Learn More:

• Five Maternity Photography Mistakes You Need to Avoid
• Simple, But Beautiful Maternity Photography Ideas

About Sew Trendy

This is a company that photographers absolutely need to be in touch with. Their gowns, crowns, and other high-quality accessories are just what you need for maternity photos, photos of newborns, and mommy and me sessions. These accessories not only make your clients look and feel great, but they also add a depth of detail and interest to your photos that elevate the images to an entirely other level. What started out with just a few people manufacturing these eye-catching items is a growing business that provides accessories to photographers worldwide. Help your clients look and feel their best by partnering with Sew Trendy Accessories.