How often do you here mothers and pregnant women referred to as ‘sensual’? Glowing. Yes. But sensual? Yet, body image remains a challenge for many pregnant women. They don't feel beautiful, nor do they believe the kind words of others.

When one thinks of maternity photography and developing keepsakes for future generations, we tend to shy away from such monikers. After all, there are some things that we don’t usually discuss with our parents and don’t plan to discuss with our children. Nope. Nada. Not going to happen!

I appreciate the position, but perhaps, we need to rethink our approach. After all, some day, the child you are now carrying may visit you and tell you that you are going to grandparents.

Discreet, elegant, fine art maternity boudoir portraits may be just the thing that you will want to discuss with the young couple, at that point…a long way in the future from now.

Maternity boudoir photography can be emotional and empowering as it often addresses deeper issues of body images for both men and women.

Keep reading to discover more about maternity boudoir photography that may help you develop yours.

How we choose the best maternity photography suggestions for you

We know that maternity boudoir photography has been around for decades and has been well-documents as giving many women a new, positive perspective on their transforming bodies and their pregnancies...

…the exact opposite of pornographic photography that demeans women and men.

Our team has read through articles, user reviews and star ratings to come up with a list of suggestions your wallet can handle when planning your maternity boudoir sessions.

This is a rapidly changing time in your life and one that most cherish.

So, let’s begin…

Which Photographers...what you need to look for...

When you are selecting a photographer, ask yourself:

• Do I trust this person? If you have doubts, this is the wrong person for you regardless of how highly recommended they come.
• Is this someone I would feel comfortable taking hundreds of very revealing pictures of me?
• There are people I trust that I would not want to take maternity boudoir photographs of me. Your anxiety will show in the photographs. Choose someone else.  
• Does this person have a portfolio to show us of previous work that they have done? If they don’t, they may be inexperienced in this area, and unless you are planning on being a practice model for them, consider someone with wider experience.
• Ask how long each session will be. How much it will cost? Whether you will receive an album, portraits or both? These business details should be in writing, (even if it is a friend offering to do the shoot for you), and agreed upon by everyone involved.
• Finally, ask yourself if you want to work with a professional photographer or if you and your partner want to do “do-it-yourself” maternity boudoir photography? The results will be different.

Who should attend?

The obvious answer would be the mom and the photographer. But also consider your partner (great for additional bonding) and a chaperone...nothing like an encouraging smile from someone who loves you and your growing family!

Swimwear

Excellent maternity products that start with what both parents are comfortable wearing in public

Why we love it:

Swimwear gives a comfortable opening to the session and can be used both indoors and outdoors. It also affords poses that seem relaxed for both parents and has the additional benefit of showing off your bump and experimenting with poses.

What you should know:  

When choosing your swimwear, think about neutral colors and comfort. Also, what sort of poses you may want. This will be different if you are getting an album or having a wall-sized portrait.

Click here to check Amazon maternity swimwear.

If you are thinking of a burkini, click here for a company that custom makes burkinis at a reasonable price. We have no affiliation with this company.

Burkinis have the advantage of being form-fitting, resembling a wet suit but much lighter.

Dads should coordinate their swimsuits to match mom's.

Stretchy, form-fitting bodysuits

Body suits give that extra allure whether shooting in the studio or in your home.

Why we love it:

Bodysuits can be sleeveless to long sleeved. Both work well for maternity photography. They hug those great curves and give an extra accent in couples shots. We especially like the effects they give when shooting silhouettes and dark shots. More room to explore and appreciate you. Bodysuits fit well under other garments from sweaters to gowns.

What you should know:

Unfortunately, many bodysuits are handwash only, so you can’t just take it off and toss it in the washer. And then there’s the issue of fasteners in the crotch, which some may find uncomfortable.

Click here for Amazon details for maternity body suits.

Lingerie

For the traditional boudoir or bedroom  look

Why we love it:

This is usually where the mom decides just how much skin she would like to have exposed and photographed.

Do not assume that your children will never see these. They tend to be resourceful when finding things parents have thought were neatly tucked away.

That said, think about what type of lingerie you would like to wear, not necessarily what you regularly wear. Also consider what your comfort zone is and stay within it. Let your private preferences guide you in these decisions.

Negligées range from full-length, lacy wonders to very short garments.

What you should know:

This is an area where you need to be careful with your budget as prices can be quite high. Some undergarments are made with scratchy lace and are not comfortable. Others do not breathe well and may cause you to perspire under the lights. Make sure you have garments that do not cause you distress and that fit well.

Click here to check Amazon suggestions

Scarves and Wraps

Large swathes of fabric to flowing scarves to add that extra touch

Why we love it:

If you want partial nudity, consider how much and how you would like to discreetly cover the rest. Whether you want to look like you just stepped out of the shower and use towels to give that extra touch, different types of drapes or a simple scarf, they can all add to the story that you are telling with your special photos. This is a good time to check out some books on fine art and see what the painters did. And don't neglect your other props.

What you should know:

Choose fabrics that are good to your skin. If you are allergic to wool or some other fiber, avoid it for your shoot. Also avoid stiff fabrics. You want fabrics that are also comfortable and not too expensive. If you have a fabric store nearby, check out their remnants bin. You may be pleased with what you find.

Click here to check Amazon

NEEWER 43 Inch/110 Centimeter Light Reflector Light Diffuser 5 In 1 Collapsible Multi Disc With Bag

Excellent photographic aid for those who want to try DIY maternity boudoir photography

Why we love it:

Lighting makes such a difference and unless you already have a studio, even if you and your partner are thinking of doing selfies, consider these light reflectors.

• They are inexpensive
• All five filters give a different effect to your pose
• They are lightweight, if you want to take shots at different locations in your home
• Versatile and especially good for portrait and altering shadows
• They fit any standard reflector holder
• The come with their own carrying bag for easy storage and moving.

What you should know:

It does not come with a reflector holder. Also consider your size when ordering so that you will be able to fold it easily. Although the price is low, this is designed for non-professionals and may break if not treated properly. Remember you cannot use all five reflectors at the same time and this will give some restrictions.

Check Amazon for availability

Moving Forward

Pregnancy presents so many challenges that the parents may not have faced before. With the mom’s physical and emotional changes, it can take a toll on self-esteem and resources. One thing that can help is a special pampering with maternity boudoir photography.

With so many different perspectives and decisions to be made, getting a photo shoot done may seem overwhelming.

We’ve created a comprehensive buyer’s guide of frequently asked questions to help you choose the best maternity boudoir photography sessions for your needs. Hopefully, this guide will help you understand what to look for when planning for your maternity boudoir photography and to develop memories that most of our mothers and grandmothers did not have access to…

FAQs

What should we wear for a maternity boudoir session?

Unlike regular maternity photography, these sessions add a more romantic, cozy sense.

Many folks like to wear matching sets to lots of lace or plain white sheets to accentuate the human form both masculine and feminine.

Have at least 3 to 4 different changes of outfits that can be used for different poses.

Make sure that all the clothing and drapes you choose are comfortable, coordinate well and without distracting patterns or logos. Pick outfits that accentuate your curves and overall form.

The number of outfits you bring depends on the range of looks you want to create

And don't forget the shoes!

Consider adding in special pieces of jewelry or other props.

When should we book a maternity boudoir session?

Most people book sessions between weeks 25 to 35. You want to have a well-rounded bump to show, but not too close to your delivery date.

If you are expecting multiples (twins or more), you will want to arrange for an earlier time since these little ones tend to come sooner.

Should both parents be included?

Including both allows for an opportunity to document your growing closeness and the anticipation of this new member of our family.

Why bother taking maternity boudoir photography?

These boudoir photos are forms of self-expression for both parents whether you choose to share them with others or not. It is a way of documenting this special time in your lives together and individuality. You may find it fun and empowering to see how amazing your body is during this unique time in your history.

What should we do to prepare for a maternity boudoir photography session?

• Be well rested. You want to look your best and you can’t if you’re haggard.
• Eat a nutritious breakfast and bring easily digested snacks and drinks.
• Repeat positive affirmations before and during your photoshoot that will help calm you and make you feel more confident.
• Consider getting a massage, a manicure and/or pedicure to relax and pamper yourselves.
• Think carefully about make-up and how you would like your hair to be styled…and that goes for the dads too.
• Plan particular poses that you would like to have such as silhouettes and don’t forget the macros.

How long does a photoshoot usually take?

Many photoshoots last 3 to 4 hours. Make sure you are prepared to be comfortable.

How do we deal with being nervous?

Don’t focus on your body perceptions but rather the purpose of this photoshoot – to celebrate that you are beautiful in this unique process of having a baby.

If you feel like you need a break, say so, then take one.

And feel free to ask lots of questions both before and during the session. Your input is vital.

In conclusion

What will be the best maternity boudoir photography session for you?

The answer to that lies with the individual mom and couple…but excellent preparation will go a long way to achieving what you desire and will treasure for years to come.

We have garnered information from articles, and reviews to give you salient ideas.

Just click on the links to continue developing your plan. We hope you enjoy the journey and have benefited from what we offered.

Thanks for dropping in…