I’m going to lay it out for you and explain why you don’t have to worry about being self conscious during your nude maternity photoshoot. We all have bits and pieces of ourselves that we immediately zone in on when we are in the buff. Whether it’s marks, pockets of squish or general shape or position of ‘the girls’, we all have something that gives power to that niggly little Neggy Nellie voice in our heads.

I’ve said it before and I will say it again, choosing not to have maternity photos done when I was pregnant is a huge regret. I’ll be honest, I chose not to have them done because I thought I had too many wobbly bits. Also, the thought of my slightly wonky boobs being out was enough for me to dismiss the thought completely. I will not have more children. I will never have another opportunity to celebrate the most amazing thing my body will every do. Half arsed shite selfies are all I have to remember my pregnancies.

I’m writing this post to tell you why you don’t need to worry about being self conscious during your nude maternity photoshoot. Firstly, I know there will be some nerves on the day of the session and when you first walk into the studio and that’s completely normal. I promise you I don’t expect you to walk in and strip down to your bare bottom and lunge straight into the session with the confidence of Channing Tatum’s Magic Mike.

Lets be pals

When you come in, we will have been chatting for a little while, either on text, email or zoom. I want you to get a sense for who I am and get a bit familiar with me. Equally, I want to get a feel for you and your vibe so I can start creating a session I think you will love. I will want to know what images you have seen that you love and what images are just not for you.

Limbering up

The first photos I take are always clothed, either in what you came in or one of my studio bodysuits or cropped tops. I need to make sure the lighting is on point. Equally, I will start giving you some direction and getting you in the zone to unleash that goddess within.

The main event

It’s important to understand, I don’t expect you to know how to pose. Knowing where to put your hands or know what the most flattering angles are isn’t down to you. I know these things. It’s part of the expertise and what you have come to me for. I will gently direct you to make sure you are looking fabulous in camera.

Peeling off the layers

I will have prepared a bunch of print outs of images you have told me you like the look of and I will have added some similar ones I think you will love. Together, after each set, we will look at them and decide what the next set we will go for.

Nips, lips and other bits

Needless to say, these images are stunning and tasteful. Mostly, this is achieved through implied nudity and keeping some bits under wraps, so to speak. I will be checking to make sure stuff’s positioned correctly and hidden by careful posing. Yes, between shots I might see you but honestly, I’m not bothered. I’ve seen plenty of boobies and foofies in my time. Also, you’ll have a dressing gown to sling on in between so you feel less exposed.

Boys will be boys

If your partner is going to be involved, awesome! I’m yet to meet one who is totally comfortable with the idea of getting his top off for some pictures. Most are not hugely excited about having photos done anyway. Let alone topless, with their semi-naked pregnant woman. I fully expect to be met with some resistance when I ask if he is ready to have some photos. However, once I have positioned you both, I will talk to you and give you some actions to do together. This usually involves syncing your breathing, thinking about baby, or feeling for a kick together. When he’s got something else to focus on, he’ll ease up and the photos will show nothing except, love and connection. Promise.

Neggie Nelly

If you’ve been with me for a while you may have heard me talk about Neggie Nellie. She is the miserable little voice in your head telling you that you’re not good enough. She is the voice of your insecurities. It’s hard, but I want you to tell me what Neggie Nellie is whispering to you. I’m not about photoshopping someone to the point that they no longer look like themselves but I want you to look your best self. I can guarantee you, the insecurity that has popped into your head as you are reading this is not necessarily something I will notice or pick up on as a flaw. Equally, we don’t all have the same ideas of personal perfection so I encourage you to tell me. Just to give you a flavour of some common ones: Regretful tattoos, pregnancy related face puffiness, stretch marks, cellulite and uneven/too big/too small boobs. Be brave, speak up. I want to show you how absolutely bloody amazing you are without Nellie being a joy sponge.

Gloriously empowered

I don’t want you to endure the session. I want you to enjoy it. It’s not just about the end product but about the experience. It’s super empowering. It really connects your mind and body and it feel amazing. But don’t just take my word for it, have a look at these words from my clients

‘I had the most amazing experience with Becky, she made me feel so comfortable.’

‘This woman has made me feel like the most beautiful lady in the world.’

‘A naked photo isn’t something I thought I would ever do, however I’m so pleased with the outcome and over the moon I have done it’

‘I was a little nervous what to expect, but from start to finish she was so professional, planned ahead and knew exactly what she had in mind to get the perfect photos.’

Have you read enough about why you don’t have to worry about being self conscious during your nude maternity photoshoot?

Here’s the big question. Are you ready to get in touch? I am not asking you to book and commit but if you are even entertaining the idea of having some photos taken to celebrate your pregnancy, its time to reach out for a non-sleepy, non-salesy chat. In the words if Nike, Just Do It. Right here.

Rebecca xo