I started dreaming about my maternity photoshoot almost as soon as I found out I was pregnant. I knew I wanted to do it outdoors in one of the beautiful natural settings the PNW has to offer, I had my dress picked out, and I even had an idea of what photographer I wanted to hire. Unfortunately, good old ‘Rona made most of my original plans impossible to carry out, and I suddenly found myself at 35 weeks pregnant with no maternity photos and no plan. Still, I knew I didn’t want to miss documenting this special time, so I recruited my sweet Instagram husband and planned a DIY maternity photoshoot. Here are my tips on how to have a successful at-home DIY maternity photoshoot as well!
Grab your IG hubby or a tripod and a remote
If you’re lucky enough to have a willing partner to shoot for you like I was, recruit them to help you with your photos. Make a Pinterest inspiration board (mine is here!) with pose and shot ideas to help them out (particularly if they’re not a photographer. My hubby isn’t but I gave him lots of examples and I think he knocked it out of the park!) If you’re doing your photoshoot solo, you can use a tripod, a DSLR remote like this one or an iPhone remote to snap your pictures!
Keep your backgrounds simple
Clean lines and simple colors make for great maternity photos! After all, the focus should be on you and your adorable baby bump! Keep your background free of clutter and choose areas where there isn’t too much to distract from the stars of the show- you and your baby!
Lighting is KEY
Having good lighting is my #1 tip for getting good photos. Whether you’re using an iPhone or a DSLR, a sunny day with nice diffused lighting (think not overhead casting harsh shadows) will make the BIGGEST difference to the outcome of your shoot!
Take some just for you
It’s totally understandable if you don’t want to share all your undie-pics with the world on social media. Still, I highly recommend taking at least a few photos of your bare belly just for you and your partner’s eyes- your body is doing such incredible things and it will be so amazing to look back on how it has stretched and grown to support your little miracle!
Wear something you feel really good in
Already bought that fancy maternity shoot dress? Wear it! Make your photoshoot a special occasion, even if it’s just in your home! I had quite a few outfits to change into so that we got a variety of shots.
Have some fun with props
If you’re feeling awkward or you don’t know what to do with your hands, play with some fun props! Since it’s peony season, we used these pretty floral blooms on our white duvet for a “milk bath” look without the mess.
Don’t forget to take pictures with your partner!
It’s your bump and your pregnancy, but chances are that your SO has been a huge part of your pregnancy too! Celebrate his support and involvement by grabbing a few shots together during this special time.
Have fun with it
Some of my favorite pictures are these funny shots we took of me with my big pregnant belly and reusable mask. What better way to remember this weird time you’re pregnant in?
I hope these tips on how to have a successful DIY at-home maternity photoshoot are helpful! If you use these tips, I’d love to see your photos, so be sure to tag me on Instagram! I’m so humbled to be even a tiny part of helping you to capture these special moments!
P.S. If you’re pregnant during COVID-19 and trying to figure out how to throw your baby shower, check out my virtual baby shower vlog here!
Other pose ideas:
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