Maternity Photos

**kat** · 03-12-2009, 03:15 PM

I have a friend that wishes for me to do some maternity shots for her. It's really last minute, she is due in three weeks.

So, I'm game. She knows my skill level and that it won't be exactly what she would envision with a pro but as she says, better you than my point and shoot in the mirror.

First thing I've done is search for poses. We have 5-10 of them that she is really interested in. I have them printed off so as I don't have to think off hand what we saw. I've been studying them for lighting and composition.

I don't have anything but my camera. I'm not going to be purchasing lights, reflectors and such in the next week so I've purchased several pieces of white postar board, and two of those covered in tin foil. I haven't been to her house, where we will be shooting, so I have no idea how the light situation is going to be. Maybe I should purchase a white sheet? Should I bring anything else? Any tips on how to get those boards up with only her and I? I think I may ask her if it's okay if her bestfriend comes to help out with anything..is that a good idea or just too many people then.

She has a shy girl age 2. She would like to have her included into some photos. Any tips on how to have this 2 year old open up? She does know me but as soon as the camera comes out she's behind moms legs.

Any tips? Anything at all for me!!! I'm really nervous.

**kiley9806** · 03-12-2009, 03:53 PM

yup, for sure ask to bring some help! it will be worth it. much easier for you to work, and it will likely help put everyone at ease, the more the merrier!
dont go purchasing anything like sheets - you probably have something that would work in your closet, or in hers. the sheet idea is good, possibly a silk scarf or those things you buy on the beach in mexico - that wrap around you (cant think of the name right now!). bring a few tacks to stick it up on the wall. if you dont have a white sheet, try a navy blue or green one or something...
if you or she has a good lamp that you already own, that throws nice light, you may want to have that handy. maybe a stool or step ladder as well, to get different angles. (bigger ladies look smaller when shot from above, so often that angle is pleasing)
i know youve probably seen it a million times, but i really love the preggo shots where the mom has her hands in the shape of a heart on her tummy. i like it even more if the hubby & and any other kids can get their arms around there too, to get everyones hands in the shot.
the mom is going to be the biggest help in getting the 2 yr old to open up. bribes work well - possibly tiny candies that could be doled out frequently, that wont make a mess or be seen in the mouth (im thinking tiny valentines hearts instead of suckers, kind of thing). get her fav blankie to cuddle mamas tummy with, or a cute teddy bear. and if all else fails - just shoot through the moms legs! lol

**jjeling** · 03-12-2009, 03:55 PM

Bring some candy! If I were doing this, I would try and give the young child a flashlight to shine on Mom's belly, the idea that the new child is trying to look for the baby in Mom's stomach just seems cool to me. ?????? Maybe thats just me? Either way, good luck, sounds like it is going to be a good experience.

**Marko** · 03-12-2009, 03:59 PM

"....I haven't been to her house, where we will be shooting, so I have no idea how the light situation is going to be...."

and a great way to solve that problem is going to the house before the shoot, preferably at the same time as you'll be shooting. This will get you way more prepared which is especially important since you are not in full control of the light.

**Mad Aussie** · 03-12-2009, 04:08 PM

Looked in your flickr album lately Kat?? What are you worried about!! You'll do great. Your compositional ideas always impress me.

Spend some time with the 2 year old playing with some of her favourite toys to get her more attached to you and willing.

Silhouettes are always good when light is difficult.

Don't right off your flash as fill light or diffused with some tissue either.

A simple torch can provide some interesting backlight in her hair. Like JJ's idea also. Hubby with some boxing gloves and 'working out' on the tummy could be amusing

Sounds like he won't be there though.

Makes those eyes pop or Marko will be on your case!!!

I think having help is a good idea if you can get it.

You'll do great.

**kat** · 03-12-2009, 04:23 PM

Thanks everyone!

Great ideas from all of you! Every little bit is helping!!! I'm definately going to get her friend over then, some candy (if I don't get through them first

)and playing with the little one. I really like that idea. She just might have a teddy that can be used in a shot!!!

Ha ha.. I still can't stop chuckling over the torch..that is a pretty scary thing MA! I have to be the most clutsiest person out there..lol. Ohh..the images that flew through my head as I read that!

I would love to get over prehand to see how everything is but I'm afraid that isn't going to happen till the day of. Saturday..lol. Gonna have to make the best out of whatever there is. Going to make sure I can find a light source to bring over.

How do you use tissue paper to diffuse the flash? Would using the flash compensation not do the same thing? Is it a different effect?

Thanks again everyone!

**kiley9806** · 03-12-2009, 04:28 PM

i cant figure out what 'torch' means! MA, can you clarify for us silly canadians!? is it a candle, a flashlight, or something Jack carries around wandering the island at night off of "LOST"?

**Mad Aussie** · 03-12-2009, 04:29 PM

Originally Posted by kat

How do you use tissue paper to diffuse the flash? Would using the flash compensation not do the same thing? Is it a different effect?

Definitely. The tissue diffuses the flash which is so directional normally.
Flash compensation is very important also of course but doesn't do the same thing.
Experiment

**Mad Aussie** · 03-12-2009, 04:31 PM

Originally Posted by kiley9806

i cant figure out what 'torch' means! MA, can you clarify for us silly canadians!? is it a candle, a flashlight, or something Jack carries around wandering the island at night off of "LOST"?

Oooooh I understand why Kat was laughing now! No I didn't mean hold a stick of fire next to her!!

Yes... a torch is a flashlight. Make sure it has new batteries Kat! Whiter the better normally.

You can see the effect in LeAngel's photos of the Old Doll. There's one where I was holding a t ... flashlight and made her hair look more golden on the photo.

You can see the effect in some of the shots I took of my daughter also.