Maternity photography captures the beautiful journey of motherhood, and using the right props can elevate these moments, making them more personal, memorable, and visually stunning. Choosing the right props requires a blend of creativity, relevance, and simplicity to complement rather than overwhelm the subject. Here’s a guide by Maternity and Newborn Photography to help you select the best props for your maternity photo session.
1. Personal and Sentimental Items
The most meaningful props are often personal to the expectant mother or couple. Incorporating items like:
- Ultrasound Photos: A tangible representation of the baby, these are often incorporated into the session to emphasize the emotional connection.
- Baby Shoes or Clothing: Tiny shoes, a onesie, or a baby blanket symbolize the anticipation of the little one’s arrival.
- Family Heirlooms: Incorporating heirlooms such as a special piece of jewelry or a childhood toy can add a sentimental touch.
- Books: If the family has a favorite childhood book, featuring it in the session adds personality and charm.
2. Seasonal Props
Reflecting the season in which the shoot takes place is a great way to make the session feel timely and relevant:
- Flowers: Fresh flowers add beauty and vibrancy to the session. For a spring or summer shoot, floral crowns or bouquets are popular choices.
- Pumpkins or Leaves: For fall-themed maternity sessions, pumpkins (perhaps painted with the baby’s name) or colorful leaves add warmth and depth to the photos.
- Holiday Decor: If your session is near the holidays, integrating festive props like ornaments, cozy blankets, or lights can create a heartwarming atmosphere.
3. Simple Studio Props
For more minimalist shoots, studio props that add elegance without distraction are ideal:
- Draped Fabrics: Flowing fabrics can be used to accentuate the belly in a flattering, ethereal way. Neutral colors or soft pastels work well.
- Chairs or Stools: Elegant chairs, antique stools, or benches provide posing options and add structure to the shoot.
- Mirrors: Mirrors can be used creatively to capture different angles of the bump and the mother’s face, adding a unique perspective.
4. Nature-Inspired Elements
For outdoor sessions, props inspired by the natural world can create a serene, organic feel:
- Wooden Signs: Handwritten or custom signs with the baby’s name or a sweet phrase add a rustic, natural element to outdoor shoots.
- Blankets or Throws: Soft blankets can provide texture and comfort to an outdoor scene. Neutral tones blend well with natural surroundings, while brighter colors can add a pop.
- Baskets or Crates: These can be used as placeholders for baby items or simply as an aesthetic addition to ground the scene.
5. Fun and Themed Props
Some maternity sessions incorporate a specific theme that adds fun and creativity:
- Rainbow Baby Themes: For rainbow babies (a baby born after a loss), rainbow-colored props such as ribbons, fabrics, or baby shoes can signify hope and healing.
- Sports Themes: If the family is sports-oriented, props like tiny jerseys, basketballs, or team hats can be a playful addition.
- Fairytale or Fantasy Props: Crowns, wands, or fairy wings can be fun for mothers wanting a whimsical theme.
6. Partner and Sibling Props
If the partner or older siblings are involved, using props that symbolize their connection with the baby-to-be can be heartwarming:
- Dad’s Tie or Shoes: Featuring the father’s tie or a pair of his shoes next to baby items can visually represent the bond between father and child.
- Sibling Signs or Shirts: If the baby has siblings, having them wear “big brother” or “big sister” shirts or hold a sign announcing the new addition adds a family-focused touch.
- Pet Props: For families with pets, including the family dog or cat (and their items like collars, leashes, or toys) can be an adorable and inclusive touch.
7. Minimalist Props
Sometimes less is more. If the focus is on the mother and her natural glow, keeping the props minimal can ensure the session feels timeless and elegant:
- Flower Crowns: These add a touch of beauty without overwhelming the scene.
- Soft Lighting: Using natural light as a “prop” creates a warm, glowing effect that complements the softness of the subject.
- Bare Belly Shots: Highlighting the belly with minimal props emphasizes the beauty of pregnancy itself.
8. Customizable Props
Personalized props allow for creativity and make the session feel unique to each family:
- Letter Boards or Chalkboards: These can be used to write messages like the baby’s due date, name, or a sweet note.
- Name Blocks: Wooden blocks that spell out the baby’s name can add a playful and personalized touch.
- Customized Blankets or Onesies: Featuring a custom blanket or onesie with the baby’s name or initials adds a unique, personal element.
Final Tips:
- Don’t Overwhelm the Scene: Props should enhance the subject, not steal the spotlight. Use them sparingly and thoughtfully.
- Coordinate with Outfits: Ensure that props match or complement the colors of the clothing for a cohesive look.
- Keep It Timeless: While trends are fun, think about how the props will look in years to come. Opt for a balance of trendy and classic.
The goal of using props in maternity photography is to tell a story — the story of a family anticipating a new life. Whether it’s through sentimental heirlooms, fun-themed props, or nature-inspired elements, choose props that speak to the personality and values of the expectant mother. By doing so, you’ll create images that are not only beautiful but deeply meaningful.
