Celebrate your growing bump and capture the memories with our DIY photo shoot ideas
Has pregnancy got you feeling like a goddess? Or do the swollen ankles, heavy boobs and heartburn make you want to hibernate?
Whichever camp you’re in, your precious little bundle will be here soon, and your pregnancy will be just a memory. So why not capture this special time in your life with a photo shoot?
‘The best time for a photography session is when you're around 28 to 34 weeks pregnant,’ says newborn and family photographer Becky Hart. ‘You'll have a nice round bump, but still feel comfortable enough to move about and feel empowered about your body.’
If you’d love some professional-looking shots but you need to save your cash for baby gear, here's how to do your own pregnancy shoot without breaking the bank.
Choose your location
The beach, the park or even your own home can provide picture-perfect backdrops for your photos. For public locations, go at a quieter time of day.
‘I planned to do my pregnancy shoot in a park close to my house. But I found it so intimidating posing with all the kids and onlookers!’ says Rachel Hudson, mum to 6-month-old Ruby.
‘My husband took a few pictures, but you could sense the discomfort in my face. We went back at 5pm once the area had emptied out and it turned out perfectly. The light, just before sunset, was stunning and added a flattering golden effect.’
Decide on wardrobe and props
Comfort is king. Nothing will kill your vibe faster than a bra strap digging in or a waistband rolling down. Wear whatever you feel good in, whether that’s a bump-flaunting body-con dress, a long flowing gown or your favourite shirt and leggings.
Keen to show off your bump in all its glory? A white cropped tee and unbuttoned jeans is a fool-proof pairing that looks understated and timeless. ‘If you're happy to embrace more skin, opt for a matching underwear set in white or nude tones. Add a draping kimono for extra movement,’ advises Becky.
Consider including props in a couple of photos. A scan picture, baby booties, or even a “coming soon” sign can make a maternity photo more fun.
Do your hair and makeup
You’ll be looking back at these pictures for years to come so opt for a naturally polished aesthetic rather than trend-led beauty statements.
If you’re suffering from dark circles induced by all those late-night toilet trips, add a few individual false lashes to help define your eyes. Cream blush will help banish peaky skin if you're still battling morning sickness. And for a truly radiant bump, pop a drop of liquid illuminator in with your body lotion.
Check out your camera settings
Smartphone cameras are so advanced these days, there’s no need to fork out on fancy shooting equipment.
If you don't have an Insta-savvy partner to hand, the self-timer mode on your phone is ideal. To take things up a notch, invest in a tripod set that includes a wireless remote. No more running back into shot as it counts down!
‘Make sure you have lots of natural light, rather than trying to use your camera flash. If you're at home, choose your favourite spot and clear any clutter away,’ advises photographer Sarah Attrill, founder of Sarah Kate London.
Practice your poses
‘Sometimes the most candid images can be special. Do what feels natural. Just standing in front of the mirror with your phone can be beautifully simplistic – don't overthink it,’ says Sarah.
‘Take lots of photos and don't be disheartened by the ones you don't like. Even as professional photographers, we take plenty of frames,’ she adds.
To nail the obligatory “gazing down at your bump” shot? Look at a point in the distance rather than directly at your belly to avoid a double chin. Keep your hands relaxed and placed close to your belly button. And don’t forget some side-profile shots, to highlight your bump.
Print out your pictures
Once you’ve taken your photos, set aside some time to select your favourites. There are all kinds of photo editing apps that let you customise everything from brightness and colour saturation to black and white effects. Just be wary of adding lots of filters as they can affect the image quality.
Once your pictures are perfected, make sure they don’t get left in the depths of your phone album!
ASDA Photo has an online printing service that offers prints, canvases, calendars and photo books.
Other options
If you'd prefer to enlist a professional for your pregnancy shoot, Becky recommends looking for someone who is passionate and who “gets” your vision.
‘It's all about the style and message of the images. Consider whether you're looking for a natural outdoor session or keeping it studio-based and even a little fashion-forward. What are you comfortable showing? Do you like to reveal skin or keep it covered? Look for a photographer who frequently shoots in the style you love,’ she explains.
Or why not create a photo diary of your pregnancy? Take a daily or weekly snap of your bump then collate them all together in a photobook, with your newborn baby as the final shot. It'll make a beautiful keepsake for both you and your child for years to come.
