moody maternity

 
As much as I an drawn to rather thoughtful and serious expressions, I have to be careful when photographing expectant couples. I wouldn’t want to convey the feeling of them not being happy a baby is on the way! So I often edit images that border on their looking too serious, even if I might like them otherwise.

This first image is perhaps a touch too moody for the occasion, although the more solemn expressions seemed natural to this couple when looking towards the camera. So I made a judgment call and went ahead and included it in their proof selection as I felt it told of story of who they are at this time, and how in sync they operate as a couple. Their expressions weren’t coached at all, and neither knew exactly what the other was doing, and yet they mirrored one another perfectly. This I felt said something about them.

In my opinion, maternity shoots should be more about the relationship of the couple who’ve made the baby, and who they are as individuals, rather than simply “the belly”.

~Cynthia