Congratulations if you’ve just become pregnant and are about to become a mom. This is the perfect time to treat yourself to an unconventional pregnancy photo shoot, such as a boudoir maternity photography session.
A maternity boudoir photoshoot is something I’d highly recommend if you want to capture and celebrate the beauty of your pregnancy and body in an unconventional and intimate way. Here are some tips, ideas, and techniques to help you plan and have an incredible session:
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How can I look good in maternity boudoir pictures while pregnant?
Groom yourself, and wear dresses that flatter and accentuate your body and baby bump if you want to look good in your maternity boudoir pictures while pregnant.
What is a maternity boudoir photoshoot?
Before we explore pregnancy boudoir tips and ideas, let’s first discuss what a maternity boudoir photoshoot means and whether or not it is a great idea.
A maternity boudoir photoshoot is a photography experience for any pregnant mum who wishes to celebrate her body, self, and sexuality during pregnancy. It is a beautiful form of maternity photography.
Maternity boudoir photography combines elements of maternity photography with the style and beauty of boudoir photography, making it an incredible maternity photo session.
How is a Pregnancy Boudoir Different From a Regular Boudoir?
Pregnancy boudoir photography focuses on capturing your beauty and strength as an expectant mother.
It can be done in a more intimate setting, such as in your home or studio, and the focus of the session would be on your body, particularly your baby bump, and the emotional connection you share with your unborn child.
Regular boudoir photography, on the other hand, focuses on capturing the beauty and sexuality of a woman, emphasizing her curves. It is often done in a more luxurious setting, like a hotel, with the aim of making the woman feel sexier and more confident.
Another difference between them is that the mood of a maternity boudoir is often softer, more intimate, and emotionally charged, while the mood in a regular boudoir can be highly sensual.
Here’s a table with more details:
Aspect | Maternity boudoir | Regular boudoir |
Subject matter | Pregnant women who want to have a unique maternity photo shoot experience. | Individuals or couples who want to celebrate their bodies and sexualities. |
Posing and emphasis | Emphasizes the baby bump, mother-to-child connection, and emotions. | Focuses on sensual and romantic poses, emphasizing confidence and beauty |
Timing | Usually, during the second trimester (weeks 14 to 27) of pregnancy | Can be scheduled anytime |
Purpose | Celebrating pregnancy in a creative way | Can serve different purposes to different individuals |
Atmosphere and setting | Soft and cozy, often in bedroom or studio | Varies greatly |
In short, pregnancy or maternity boudoir is a way for women to celebrate their pregnancy and their changing bodies, while regular boudoir is a way for women or individuals to feel sexy, empowered, and confident.
Is a maternity boudoir a good idea?
On a personal level, I would say yes, it is a great idea. It is a great idea because it offers you an opportunity to celebrate yourself in a way you have never done while also documenting your body changes during pregnancy.
Although some pregnant women might think it is a silly idea to take or pose before a camera for boudoir portraits, a boudoir photo shoot can actually be a wonderful way to pamper yourself and your unborn child.
Maternity photo shoots are generally important for expectant parents. However, whether or not to do it the traditional way would depend on you! If you want extraordinary, intimate maternity portraits, I’d highly recommend you consider this idea.
Luckily, there are several styles to consider, so you don’t have to worry about posing unclad. In fact, you don’t even have to unless you want to.
Before we proceed, I’d like you to note that boudoir photography does not necessarily mean posing unclothed. Actually, it means posing with your underwear, nighties, or revealing dresses.
If you feel or think you might not be comfortable wearing only a bra and panty set for your maternity photo session, you can consider loose robes or any outfit you will be comfortable in.
Pregnancy boudoir sessions are not about your outfits but about celebrating your body as it changes with each pregnancy and seeing your true, beautiful self.
How do I prepare for my maternity boudoir session?
If you are planning to try out maternity boudoir photography, here are my top tips you can rely on:
1. Look for the right photographer and book a session
The first step is to search for ‘maternity boudoir photographers near me’ on Google or any search engine, and explore the portfolios of the top results.
If you haven’t done that, then you definitely should. See what the maternity boudoir photographers near you are capable of, check the reviews on their websites or social media accounts, and see whose style of photography suits you best.
When you make contact with a photographer, before booking, ask questions about their fees, process, and what you should expect from your session. Discuss your vision and desired styles and see how you can work together to achieve them.
You can also ask about their interests, photography journeys, grade of equipment, etc. Try to get comfortable with them. Lastly, ensure you hire someone you would be comfortable with in your room or studio while partially dressed or fully nude.
2. Carefully choose your outfits
If you don’t want to go completely unclad, you can consider a variety of lingerie, sheer fabrics, or dresses that make you feel beautiful and confident for your boudoir portraits.
Earlier, I wrote an article containing my favorite dresses for a boudoir photoshoot. You can click on the link below to access it:
What To Wear For A Boudoir Shoot? Boudoir Outfit Ideas
You might also be interested in the article below:
Maternity Photoshoot Dress Ideas To Choose For A Photoshoot
3. Do your hair and makeup
It is important to look your best when posing for the pictures. Maternity photo shoots often involve poses showing your hands and feet.
So, you should definitely consider treating yourself to a manicure and pedicure beforehand. You can also consider having your hair fixed so your pictures will come out looking great.
Here’s another article you might be interested in:
5 Ideas for the Best Hairstyle for a Maternity Photoshoot
4. Stay hydrated and nourished
Leading up to your session, ensure you maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated if you want to feel your best on the day of the photo shoot.
5. Go shopping for baby props and wears
If you haven’t purchased your baby’s clothes and toys, you definitely should because you might need to add some of them to your pictures.
Some women love posing for their maternity photos with their unborn child’s clothes, such as sockets and shoes. This isn’t essential, but if your pregnancy is still in its early stages and your baby bump is not yet noticeable, then I recommend getting some for the pictures.
6. Get enough rest and sleep
Try not to be anxious about the photo session. Instead, make sure you get enough rest and sleep leading up to the moment.
Your level of rest will definitely show in the images. I’m sure you don’t want your pictures to look dull and unattractive. So, make sure you rest well.
7. Get inspiration for boudoir photography
If it’s your first boudoir experience, you might feel a lot of tension in your head leading to the very moment. That’s actually normal.
The most effective way to overcome such feelings is to seek inspiration from other women who have had the experience.
Some maternity boudoir ideas and poses you should try
Here are simple poses for pregnant women that you can consider during your session:
1. Hands on belly
Pregnant women love this pose because of its simplicity. If you are looking for a maternity pose that would show the connection between you and your unborn child, I highly recommend you put your hands on your baby bump while standing, sitting, or lying down.
2. Lying down
For a more comfortable look, you can consider lying down on your back or side. This pose works well both indoors and outdoors.
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3. Sitting cross-legged
Another creative relaxation idea you can try is the sitting crossed-legged pose. This pose will ensure your belly is at the center of attention.
You can go through our articles below to gather more maternity shoot ideas that you can try during your maternity boudoir photography or next maternity photo session.
20 Creative Couple Maternity Photoshoot Studio Ideas
Pregnancy Couple Photoshoot Ideas And Poses, Both Indoor And Outdoor