How to Photograph a Maternity Session Naturally and Organically | Guest Blogger Mel Bosna of Lulliloo Photography
I'm so excited to be featuring a fellow photographer mom's stunning work and article on the blog today! Her name is Mel and she's going to share how she photographs a maternity session naturally and organically. Mel Bosna is a maternity, newborn & family photographer based out of Phoenix, Arizona. A lover of the desert's light and a professional baby huffer (yes, it's a thing!!!) babies are her jam and she's been behind a camera professionally since 2008.
One of the more requested types of sessions I get asked to shoot are family maternity sessions however it can be hard to know how to highlight both the bump and the family in a way that feels natural and organic.
When photographing couples I ask mom and dad specific questions about what they're most anticipating with the new baby, but rather than answering me, I have them share it with each other, which often produces the sweetest interactions between partners. In turn asking older siblings to talk to the baby, touch mama's belly or engage produces more natural interactions consistent with the sweet moments family's are having outside of session too!
Some of my favorite family maternity moments to capture are the natural interactions with parents and the older siblings---whether that's soothing a toddler, tickling a big sis or snuggling with her first born those moments of tenderness highlight the kind of mother she already is.
Men aren't always sure how to participate in maternity sessions (for you Taladega Night Fans, think of Ricky Bobby's confusion of where he should put his hands, hahaha!) One of my pet peeves with maternity sessions is when everyone has their hands in separate spots on the mama's belly (for some reason they photograph exponentially!) My tip is for Dad to lay his hands on top of mama's as pictured with these two sweethearts.
Mel has even photographed a local celebrity! This absolutely stunning mom is Priscilla Orneals who is a Phoenix DJ with the Matthew Blades Show http://mix969.iheart.com/onair/mathew-blades-in-the-morning-49333/)
Wearing clothing that highlights that beautiful bump and works with the rest of the family's wardrobe is another way to bring unity to a family maternity session...style can vary from glam to casual depending on what the family wants to see their walls! There aren't specific rules however there are some general guidelines for dressing your bump. Many photography studios like Candace Hires offer a beautifully curated wardrobe collection to help mamas feel gorgeous during their photo session! For a more casual family look, I've written some additional style tips here: http://www.lulliloophotography.com/what-to-wear-for-maternity-photos-lulliloo-photography/
The best thing to plan for with a maternity family session?! Hiring a photographer who has the skill and confidence with capturing your whole family, in this season of anticipation and growth.
