Maternity Session Posing: How to Pose Clients Who Aren’t Models
Maternity photography is all about capturing the beauty and glow of expecting moms, but let’s be real here: not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera. Most of my clients tell me right off the bat, “I’m not a model!” I know, but guess what? That’s totally okay! Because they don’t need to be a model to look and feel amazing in their maternity photos.
As a maternity photographer based in Arizona, I’ve had the privilege of working with moms from all walks of life which keeps every maternity session exciting. Here’s how I make the experience fun, comfortable, and confidence-boosting for everyone whether they’ve posed for a professional photo before or not.
Start with Comfort
The first step to a great photo? Feeling comfortable.
I always start my sessions with light conversation to ease any nerves. It’s also the reason why I prefer my clients to schedule a consultation call first before anything else. I get to know their preferences and they get to know my style and process: it’s a win-win situation!
I highly encourage my clients to wear outfits that make them feel their best (and yes, my client closet as well as my makeup and styling guides are lifesavers for this!).
Quick Pro Tip:
Position them in natural ways that feel intuitive. Sitting, leaning, or even gently walking creates movement and makes posing feel less “posed.”
Guide Them Step by Step
Don’t assume your client knows how to angle their body or hold their hands. I give clear, simple directions like, “Place your hand gently under your bump,” or, “Turn slightly to your left and look down at your belly.” This way they don’t feel that they look like a deer caught in the headlights in their photos.
Quick Pro Tip:
Demonstrate the pose yourself first! It takes the guesswork out for your client and gives them confidence. I noticed that some clients feel awkward and conscious at first but when you demonstrate the pose, they start to warm up and feel confident now that they see you doing the poses.
Focus on Connection
Maternity photography is about capturing love and anticipation. If my client wants to, they can get their partners or older kids in the session to create those tender, genuine moments. Simple prompts like, “Whisper something sweet to her,” or, “Place your hand over hers on her belly,” can create beautiful interactions.
Quick Pro Tip:
Look out for these genuine moments! Most of my clients prefer these kinds of photos (see also Tip #7!) as they truly capture the exciting emotion that they feel for the arrival of their little one.
Highlight the Bump
The star of a maternity session is, of course, the bump! I use angles that naturally emphasize it like a side profile with one hand gently resting on top. This keeps the focus where it should be while flattering the mom-to-be’s silhouette.
Quick Pro Tip:
It’s all about the lighting! Adjust the light so that it emphasizes mama’s bump. I tend to use dramatic lighting for this and it looks great in black and white! Just make sure mama’s face still looks flattering.
Use Props and Movement
Adding a light, flowy fabric or encouraging movement (like a twirl or walking barefoot) creates drama and helps clients feel less stiff. It also makes the photo look grander and luxurious!
Quick Pro Tip:
Zoom in on all those details during post-edit, I kid you not. When clients choose to print those photos, they will definitely see all those fabric creases, so take note of that! A simple airbrush of clothing folds and creases instantly levels up your photos.
Reassure and Compliment
Posing can feel awkward at first, so I always reassure my clients that they’re doing an amazing job. A little encouragement goes a long way in boosting their confidence, which will show in their photos.
Quick Pro Tip:
Smiling behind the camera can instantly give them a boost of confidence! So don’t forget to smile at them while giving them words of encouragement.
Keep It Light and Fun
Not every shot has to be serious or glamorous. I love throwing in playful moments to break the ice. Laughing photos or candid shots are often my clients’ favorites.
Wrapping It Up
Your clients don’t need to be models to shine in their maternity photos, they just need to feel comfortable, guided, and celebrated and that’s our job as photographers.
