Maternity photoshoots offer a beautiful way to celebrate the anticipation and joy of becoming a mother. They capture this special moment in time, creating lasting memories for the expectant mother and her family. Outdoor maternity shoots are particularly popular because they allow for a more natural and relaxed setting, often with stunning backdrops that complement the beauty of pregnancy.
Choosing an Outdoor Location for Your Maternity Photoshoot
For a majestic, stunning photographic backdrop, nothing rivals the unique beauty and majesty of nature. When it comes to choosing a location for your outdoor maternity shoot, it may be hard to narrow it down to just one or two. Talk with your maternity photographer about your preferred settings well in advance to discuss your ideas and create a location plan.
Here are some popular outdoor maternity shoot locations that offer stunning backdrops for your photos:
Natural Settings
- Beach: The beach offers a classic and timeless backdrop for maternity photos. The sand, sea, waves, and sunrises/sunsets create a romantic and serene atmosphere.
- Lake: A lake provides a peaceful and reflective setting for your photos. You can pose on the shore, in the water, or the dock, or in a small boat.
- Park: Parks offer a variety of landscapes, including trees, gardens, paths, and more.
- Field of flowers: A field of flowers is a vibrant and colorful backdrop for your photos. You can lie, sit, or stand among the flowers or create a floral crown to wear.
- Mountain setting: Mountains offer dramatic and breathtaking backdrops for maternity photos. Consider posing amongst the rocky cliffs, in a stand of tall pines, in a grassy meadow, or before a backdrop of snowy peaks.
- Forest: A forest provides a natural and peaceful setting for your photos. Pose among the trees, in a clearing, or in a stream.
- Desert setting: A desert offers a unique and exotic backdrop for your photos. You can pose amongst cacti, sand dunes, rock formations, or capture a dramatic sunset.
Urban Settings
- Big city skyline: A big city skyline provides a modern and dynamic backdrop for your photos. You can pose in front of iconic landmarks or capture the city lights at night.
- Urban park: Urban parks offer a mix of natural and man-made elements, such as trees, fountains, ornamental fencing, and sculptures.
- Historic district: A historic district offers a charming and nostalgic backdrop for your photos. You can pose in front of historic buildings, explore cobblestone streets, or in an old-fashioned carriage.
When selecting your outdoor shoot location, be sure the location will be accessible for you and everyone involved. Consider parking, terrain, and distance from your home. Be mindful of the weather conditions at your chosen location. If you’re planning a shoot during a specific season, research the average weather patterns and long-range forecasts for that time of year. Finally, consider the time of day and the direction of the sun. The golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often offers the most flattering light which, when coupled with a beach or lakefront location, can create stunning sunrise or sunset photos.
Choosing the Right Outfit for Your Outdoor Maternity Photo Shoot
When selecting your attire for an outdoor maternity photoshoot, consider the location, season, and your personal style. Opt for comfortable clothing that accentuates your pregnancy glow. Flowy dresses, maxi skirts, or fitted tops with loose-fitting pants are popular choices. Choose colors that complement the natural surroundings and your skin tone. Keep accessories minimal to avoid distracting to make you and your baby bump the star of the shoot. Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Jenny Leigh Photography has an amazing collection of gowns for maternity photography clients to wear during photo shoots. Her assortment includes flowing gowns, gorgeous tops and luxe drapes in a multitude of shades so you can achieve the perfect look to fit your personality and create amazing, beautiful photos. Best of all, this is included in your maternity photo shoot. When you have your consultation, be sure to let Jenny know if you want to explore her maternity wardrobe.
Outdoor Maternity Shoot Ideas: Creative Concepts for Your Photos
Here are some unique and creative outdoor maternity shoot ideas to consider before your photo session:
- Forest fairy: Dress in flowing white or ethereal colors and incorporate natural elements like flowers, leaves, or moss.
- Mermaid in the sea: Pose on a beach or in a shallow body of water, wearing a mermaid-inspired outfit or simply draping a sheer fabric over your body.
- Water lily: Float in a pond or pool, with your bump emerging from the water, surrounded by water lilies or other aquatic plants.
- Tree nymph: Lean against a tree, surrounded by lush greenery, and wear a flowing dress that blends with the natural environment.
Remember to choose a theme that reflects your personality and style, and don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun!
Outdoor Maternity Shoot Poses
Posing for outdoor maternity photoshoots can sometimes feel awkward or uncomfortable. However, with the right guidance and a little practice, you can incorporate poses that are both natural and beautiful. Here are a few classic, timeless poses, along with some more creative and playful options:
Classic and Timeless Poses:
- Sitting with legs crossed: If you can still sit comfortably at your current stage of pregnancy, this is a classic pose that highlights your baby bump.
- Standing with hands on your belly: This simple yet elegant pose is a great way to showcase your growing belly.
- Lying on your back with your hands on your belly: This pose can be both relaxing and visually striking.
Creative and Playful Poses:
- Silhouette shots: Position yourself in front of a bright light source and ask your photographer to capture your silhouette. This can create a dramatic and ethereal effect.
- Incorporate props: Use props to add personality and interest to your photos. Some ideas include baby booties or another adorable article of clothing, an ultrasound photo, or a sign with a message.
- Playful poses with your partner: Get creative with your partner and try some playful poses together. This can add a touch of humor and romance to your photos. One sweet pose positions the mom’s partner behind the mom-to-be. The partner grasps mom’s right hand with their left hand to support mom’s belly, then takes mom’s left hand with their right and rests it on top of the bump.
- Family poses: An outdoor maternity shoot with family can be so special. Candid moments between the mother and child(ren) can create particularly poignant photographic moments. A young child might touch or kiss the baby bump or look up at mom with love and admiration.
Tips for Posing Comfortably and Naturally:
- Relax and have fun: The most important thing is to feel comfortable and enjoy the experience.
- Communicate with your photographer: Let your photographer know if you’re feeling uncomfortable or unsure about a pose. They can offer guidance and suggestions.
- Move around: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different poses and movements. This can help you find a pose that feels natural and flattering.
- Focus on your breathing: Taking deep breaths can help you relax and feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
- Have fun with it! Maternity photoshoots are a celebration of your pregnancy. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your poses.
The Outdoor Winter Maternity Shoot: What to Consider
Winter offers a unique and beautiful backdrop for maternity photoshoots if your due date lines up right with the seasons. Winter’s soft, diffused light can be very flattering for an outdoor maternity shoot and snowy landscapes can provide a gorgeous backdrop for beautiful, dramatic photos. You can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your shoot in front of a fireplace or in a cozy cabin. A fun outdoor family maternity photoshoot idea is to build a snowman together or stage a mock snowball fight.
Start planning your outdoor winter maternity shoot early, particularly if you will need to travel to a location that will have snow. You will want to book your photographer far in advance, check long-range weather forecasts, ensure you have plenty of wardrobe options for your shoot plus warm clothing to put on between shots. If you will take children along, consider taking a grandparent or other adult to help at the shoot.
Create Memorable Outdoor Maternity Photos with Jenny Leigh Photography
With the perfect blend of natural beauty and personal style, outdoor maternity photoshoots offer a truly unforgettable experience. Jenny Leigh photography has the skill and expertise to create stunning images that you will cherish for years to come. Contact Jenny Leigh Photography today to schedule your outdoor maternity shoot.
