Top Must Have Maternity Poses with Just Mom :: Boston MA Photographer
Maybe it’s because I began my portrait photography career doing wedding portraits, but there is just something about maternity photos that have my absolute heart. Or maybe it’s because as a mom myself, I know all of those many different feelings, emotions, thoughts going on in an expecting mama’s brain and heart. There is so much happiness, excitement, fear, joy, anxiety, hope, wonder, love, and about a billion more. Which is why I take my job as a maternity portrait photographer so seriously. I understand that there are a trillion different emotions and feelings happening at any given time. I understand that this is simultaneously one of the most exciting, and one of the most nerve wracking times. Plus, I know that it isn’t always easy to feel your best when pregnant. Which is why I think that focusing on the top maternity poses, knowing how to make a mama feel beautiful, is so important.
And boy do I have some favorite poses! Not all of these are necessarily the best fit for every session or every mom-to-be. But these are the ones that I try to incorporate into every session. For the most part they don’t require props or accessories. Maybe some extra technology on my end, but nothing that mom needs to worry about. And each pose is proven to look stunning in portraits. Keep scrolling to see what I mean!
Standing and Looking at the Camera
First up is the classic one. Standing, looking at the camera, maybe with a smile and maybe looking seriously. That much totally depends on the mom in question. This one is in my top maternity poses because it is pretty much as classic and timeless as it gets. But that doesn’t make it boring! There are so many different subtle changes that can be made to make this one unique. Plus it’s super easy to accomplish whether we’re outside, or in my studio. Add in some faux wind thanks to a blow dryer for an extra glamorous look. Hands on belly to really show off that baby bump. Works in a stunning maternity gown, a more casual look, or in nothing at all!
Silhouette
Silhouette photos are some of my absolute favorites during a maternity session, so of course they’re one of my top poses. And while they do take a bit of extra preparation–namely a super bright flash behind a sheer white curtain–they are so worth it. This does mean that I need to be in my studio to accomplish this one, but I have never met a silhouette portrait that I didn’t love. They are both timeless and dramatic. Simple and stunning. And I really love how they truly show off that baby bump.
Looking at the Belly
Since, let’s be real, the belly is the main highlight of these photos it only makes sense to draw the eyes there. And what better way to do that than having mom look at the belly herself? Plus there is something so loving and tender about these photos. Just a mama and her baby, having a sweet and special moment. Just like the one of mom looking ahead at the camera, this is another one that can be accomplished both in the studio and outdoors, and can be switched up to make it a little unique and personal. And since it’s another of the maternity poses that is so easy to accomplish in any location, it has to be one of my top choices.
Halo
I love what I call the “halo” portraits, so of course they have to be on my list of top maternity poses. Similar in a way to the silhouette portraits, these ones also use a bright light. In this case, it’s a ring light pointed at the mom instead of a bright flash behind her. This creates a really stunning glow effect where just the outline of mom is shown in the light. Another moody and dramatic photo that really emphasizes the belly. And while more often than not these photos are done nude, I definitely have options for mom’s who want a little more coverage.
Sitting or Laying
A great way to switch up the portrait session is to let mom take a break and sit or lay down for a little bit. Whether that means perching on stool, sitting on a plush fur, or laying down. I love all of the options, but there is something so comfortable about the ones of mom sitting on the floor. And something so beautiful about mom laying down with her hair fanning around her face. Plus the stool adds such a cute touch. So basically, a win all around.
Nothing But Belly
And of course no listicle talking about maternity poses would be complete without mentioning the baby bump photos! A close up of that gorgeous, miraculous, belly–clothed or bare. Another pose that can be done in so many different ways, with our without props, in any setting. And one that I definitely make sure I capture in every single session. Trust me, you’re going to want to remember that belly!
What’s your favorite pose? Let me know in the comments! And for even more maternity photos check out my most recent Maternity Portrait Inspiration Round Up and my Maternity Photo Ideas Pinterest board!
Crabapple Photography is located in Andover MA and serves clients from around the Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Greater Boston, Southern NH areas. Kate McKenna has been a portrait photographer since 2009. Contact Kate today to learn more.
