Maternity Photojournalism

Appeal of Pregnancy Photojournalism

Numerous women have a studio session to have maternity portraits done where they show off their bellies proudly, often with blocks or shoes on the tummy, Dad kissing the tummy, and photos of the couple embracing. But for many couples, this does not depict their true feelings as they await the arrival of their baby.

Feeling a baby kick for the first time, finishing the nursery decorations, and finally putting on that first pair of maternity jeans is a milestone many expectant parents anticipate with joy. Capturing moments like these in a natural setting rather than a studio lets your true feelings show. Using a photographer with a photojournalistic style can help you create a maternity memoir that reflects your own journey into parenthood.

Photojournalism Photography Session

What a maternity photojournalism session consists of will vary depending on your preferences and the photographer’s style. Some photographers will do traditional portraits followed by a more candid session outside or in your home. Others may suggest a few poses to help put you at ease, and then snap away as you and your partner become more comfortable. Yet others may prefer to follow you through your day, documenting a prenatal appointment, baby shopping excursion, romantic dinner with your husband, and family downtime. Other ideas for a photojournalistic photography session include:

• Family trip to the beach
• Series of sessions, such as three sessions, one for each trimester or stage of pregnancy
• Expectant mom decorating the nursery with help from her partner, parents, or other significant persons
• Couples' baby shower
• A maternity photojournalism session on a "babymoon" (a vacation similar to a honeymoon, taken before the baby arrives)

Maternity Photojournalism Examples

Ask friends and family who have had photojournalism sessions while pregnant to see their photos. Local photography exhibitions often have photojournalist examples. You can also use the Internet to search for a photojournalist in your area to take your maternity pictures. See examples of photojournalistic style for pregnancy at these websites:

• Anna Myers Photography: Look over the maternity gallery for almost 30 examples. Photo number 15 is a photojournalistic collage worth viewing.
• Jadrien Spearman: This webshots.com album depicts maternity pictures, including portraits, doctor’s appointment, and newborn photos.
• Storybook Images Photography: A collection of maternity shots are in this portfolio that goes beyond the typical studio session.
• B2G Productions: The maternity portfolio documents a nursery and a couple in their home.
• UnScripted Photography: Check out the maternity portfolio (entitled “Anticipation”) and see examples of maternity photography, including one of a young mom-to-be playing music for her unborn child.

Checking into examples of the range of photojournalistic styles can help you decide the style of photography you want to document your pregnancy journey.

Hiring a Photojournalist

Once you have decided you would like maternity photography done, you should take care to find someone you feel comfortable with. Take the following points into consideration when you hire your photographer:

• Style: Ask to see galleries or portfolios of the photographer’s prior work. Because photographers often put the best photos into their portfolio, ask to see an entire session, so you can see the entire range of their abilities for one shoot.
• Location: Is the photographer willing to go where you need him/her to be? Taking photos in your home, garden, or local park can make you more comfortable and be more receptive to a photojournalistic style.
• Enhancements and Collections: How does the photographer display the pictures taken? Do they create a story? Is the photographer willing to do black and white or other enhancements if you want them?
• Price and Packages: The affordability of the photographer is a big priority. Make sure the quality and amount of photos you get will match the price you are paying. Find out if there are discounts for buying collages or other packaged collections.

Because you will likely want to have portraits done of your newborn baby shortly after his/her birth along with other photos the first year, you may want to think about hiring someone for a yearlong session that includes your maternity portraits, such as one offered by Marilee Langer out of Boulder, Colorado.