Maternity Photos

[NFLD Stephen]

You could always put more distance between the subject and the background to keep from having shadows on it. Of course that means possibly a big backdrop than what you have.

Thanks, with the black background I was indeed limited by the size of the background. I'll have to find a larger background (maybe time to purchase one...) In the other shots, the wall was the background and I was limited by the size of the room there.

Like the profile shots as they truly do show maternity. The concept of the third one is far more interesting. A little more flash on the hands and/or faces would have really set the shot apart. If you are looking at getting into portrait type work I'd suggest more lighting options to increase your flexibility. As I use umbrellas for flash units I can't make too many specific recommendations other than that two flashes is very limiting. I find that 3 or 4 allow many more options while still allowing maximum portability.

I agree that the third one is best. How would I go about lighting the hands and faces better? More power on the existing flash or would I possibly need another flash (or two) specifically aimed at the hands or faces (possibly using a grid or snoot)? I'm also intending to get another flash (and already have another rp trigger), but just haven't been able to pick one up yet. I'm also thinking a reflector would be useful in the absence of another flash.

I did a maternity set a little while back and got some good ideas from here - http://www.momphoto.com/

I used a simple backdrop of one white and one black purchased from the local Hobby Lobby craft store. It was 2 yards wide by 4 long. If you happen to clip off the sides and have some wall showing, you can always photoshop. I prefer to focus on the tummy rather than backdrops and props.

As for your photos, I do like the profile shots. The first one, as suggested, I would move her away from the wall to stop the shadow. Get some of her lying on the floor, sitting with hands on her tummy. Have her husband sit behind her and both hold her tummy. Take a photo looking down from her head at her tummy (helps her remember what it looked like . ) I think your lighting is fine, just get creative with what your ideas, but remember that mommy will tire out easily from getting up and down so try to do all the shots on the floor at once.

Jason, thanks for the link. Some great photos there! Although I find most maternity photos show significant skin, which not everyone is comfortable doing (I'm refering to the mom here). Sometimes it's a bit more challenging to have a fully-clothed mom-to-be which still shows off the baby bump. Thanks also for the background tip, I'll definately check that out. And don't I know it about the mommy getting tired! The model here is my wife though, so if she gets too tired wee can always try again!

Stephen