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Maternity Photography how to (with camera settings!)

english maternity photoshoot posing + portraits
Maternity Photoshoot

 

Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! Today, I'm thrilled to take you behind the scenes of a recent maternity photoshoot. As much as I adore capturing the magic of motherhood, I must confess, that maternity photography isn't my primary focus. I reserve this special art for friends and what I like to call "Legacy clients."

 

So, what are Legacy clients, you ask? Well, my friend Janna Williams coined this term, and it perfectly encapsulates those special clients who have entrusted me to capture multiple significant moments in their lives. In this case, it's Katie and TJ, whom I've photographed during their engagement session, engagement party, and wedding. Now, I have the privilege of documenting another beautiful chapter in their journey—parenthood.

As I guide you through this session, you'll get a sneak peek into my choice of lenses, posing techniques, and camera settings. However, the real magic happens not just during the photoshoot but in what comes next. I'm passionate about ensuring these moments don't fade into the abyss of digital archives. Stick around, and I'll show you how I turn these cherished memories into tangible keepsakes.

 

But before we dive into the post-production process, let's talk about the photoshoot itself. One key element I focus on is creating space between the waist and arms. It's not just about avoiding the dreaded "pancake" look but also showcasing the natural beauty and grace of the expectant mother. Moreover, I strive to capture the connections between the soon-to-be parents and their little one on the way—intimate moments that speak volumes.

 

Now, here's where the real magic happens—turning these moments into a tangible story. I strongly advocate for the use of albums and printed products. These aren't just photographs; they're a legacy, a story that deserves to be passed down through generations. If you haven't incorporated albums into your photography business, I implore you to consider it.

For my album design needs, I swear by Fundy Album Builder. Currently running a fantastic Black Friday deal with 40% off, Fundy is my go-to for its user-friendly interface and creative flexibility. Whether I'm designing alone or collaborating with clients over Zoom, Fundy simplifies the process, ensuring every page looks clean and captivating.

 

Now, let's embark on the journey of crafting an album together. With 52 carefully selected photos, we'll create a visual narrative that truly captures the essence of this maternity session. From selecting the right album size to using auto-design for a quick start, Fundy makes the process a breeze.

As I fine-tune the design, sorting and arranging photos to avoid repetition, you'll witness the art of storytelling unfold. The key is to maintain a balance, ensuring each page offers a unique visual experience. With a few adjustments, the album is ready to be transformed into a slideshow, a captivating preview of the tangible memories that await Katie and TJ.

 

And there you have it—an inside look into a maternity photoshoot for Legacy clients, from capturing the moment to preserving it in a tangible, timeless form. I hope you enjoyed this journey, and until next time, happy shooting!

 

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Vanessa has been photographing weddings, events, portraits and lifestyle for over 20 years.

She's a Canon Explorer of Light, an honor given to only 5 photographers in the United States, and her work has been published by Yahoo! News, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Rangefinder and more.

With her practical and open-book style of teaching, she shares everything she knows with hundreds of thousands of photographers as an educator and influential sparker.

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