How to Look Good in Maternity Photos for Plus Size Moms
How to Look Good in Maternity Photos for Plus Size Moms
Professional Image captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
Maternity photos are a great way to capture this special time in your life. However, as a plus-size mom, you may be concerned about how you will look in your photos. As someone who had been frustrated with their body for many years, I was nervous about my photo shoot. However, considering the investment of time and money, it’s vital to feel confident and beautiful during this time. Plus, your pregnancy is only a short period of motherhood. So whether you feel well or not, you can do a few things to make sure you look great!
Also, don’t forget to prepare for your postpartum recovery! Free guide available.
To help, I’ve put together a few tips on How to Look Good in Maternity Photos for Plus Size Moms.
What to Wear in Maternity Photos
Wear something comfortable and flattering. In fact, you might want to wear several different outfits. Most maternity photo shoots involve a few different wardrobe changes. Some photographers have a wardrobe and props to use; be sure to discuss what size you are and what kinds of things you would like to do at your photoshoot. I brought three outfits for my photo shoot and tried an additional 5-6 from the photographer’s stock. I tried on my personal outfits ahead of time to ensure they fit well and were clean/in good repair.
Heads up: Not all photographers have a changing station. Be prepared to ask for some privacy or take off your clothes in front of your photographer. Be sure to add a note to your checklist.
Professional Image captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
How to Pose for Maternity Photos
A good maternity photographer will be trained in this art, but just in case, I have three tips:
1. Pop the front leg forward with a bent knee on your toes/ball of your foot. This pose does take some balance, but the popped leg will create a beautiful line in the front of your body and show off that gorgeous bump.
2. Go ahead and do the traditional “cradle the bump” hand poses. Depending on how you face, rest the rear hand on the top of your ribs to the side of your bump and your forward hand on the underside of your bump. It may feel cliche, but this is the opportunity to get this pose!
3. Tilt your head and look down instead of looking straight down. Looking straight down is not necessarily a wrong pose, but it will often show less of your face and create a double chin look. You don’t need to strain; just a gentle tilt and look down.
Professional Images captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
Don’t be Afraid to do Something Different!
Consider suggestions your photographer might have, or feel free to gather inspiration you have seen in other photos. Another thing you may not have considered is partial or full nudity. Many maternity photos show extra skin than you may be used to. You do not have to expose yourself, but if you want to capture your beautiful pregnant belly (and it is beautiful!), it is essential to get shots of the bare skin. Another option you may want to consider is if you want to be naked from the waist up. If you’re struggling with body confidence, book a free call with Krysti.
What to Expect From Your Maternity Photo Shoot
Expect your photographer to work with you to create a custom photo shoot that captures who you are, who you are as a couple, or as parents-to-be. I chose to have a maternity photo shoot alone, but you may want to involve your partner, children, pets, or other important people in your life. Be open with your photographer about your priorities for the style, themes, or different things you want to try.
Professional Image captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
Accessories for Maternity Photos
Have you picked a going-home outfit? Chosen a name? Is there a family heirloom that you want to use? Bring any items you want to be used during the maternity photos that have sentimental value.
Here are a few ideas:
Ultrasound images
Special outfits
Name/monogram
Heirloom blanket, baby clothes, or item
Nursery decor
Professional Image captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
Tips to Feel Comfortable and Confident in Your Maternity Photos
You should expect to feel comfortable and relaxed during your photo shoot. If you aren’t, those feelings might come across in your photos. Your photographer will help put you at ease and guide you through the process. Expect beautiful, natural images that will capture the love you feel for your little one. Maternity photos celebrate the amazing thing your body is creating: growing a human, expanding your family, showing the person you are and who you are becoming. It may help to think about the beautiful photos you will put in your little one’s baby book, send gifts to loved ones, share online or display prints in your home.
Professional Image captured by Aeto’s Arts Photography Copyright 2022 Krysti Beckett
Maternity photos should be a joyful way to celebrate your body and growing family. However, for plus-size moms, it can be hard to feel confident and find ways to be comfortable in front of a camera if you struggle with body confidence. Make it a priority to find a photographer who understands how to make you look your best. I hope this post gave you some valuable tips on looking good in maternity photos, regardless of the size or shape of your body.
Once baby is here, you’ll want to retrain your core and pelvic floor!
CHECK OUT MY FREE GUIDE
Pregnant or 0-2 years postpartum? Check out this free, basic home program to re-train your core and pelvic floor. This is the exact plan I used to rebuild my core after my C-sections. Perfect for postpartum women of any size, including those who have had a C-section. This empowering resource provides gentle, effective movements to help you regain stability and confidence in your body. Check out this free, basic home program to re-train your core and pelvic floor.
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