Everyone loves to capture the special moments of life in frames and make them incredibly affable forever. Not just wedding photography but maternity photo shoots too are the trend of the season. Expectant mothers, in dreamy outfits, excitedly strike a pose with their partners to capture the most amazing shots. “We have no words to explain the happiness that we feel when we see these pictures. These indeed are the most special moments in our lives,” says a radiant Shruthi and her husband Nirmal. The couple, working in Abu Dhabi, is expecting their first baby and had an amazing time enjoying the maternity photo shoot. The photo shoot beautifully captures the love and excitement of the expectant mother, which they can keep as a souvenir to show their kids.
Maternity photography is very common in the foreign countries and it was through the expatriate Keralites that the trend reached Kochi. The vibrant city has accepted this too with open arms and it has become quite popular among the young expecting couples.
‘Motherly’ shots
The older generation, however, were a little hesitant about the idea of an elaborate photo shoot during the pregnancy time. But the beautiful pictures shot in mesmerizing locales conquered their hearts too. In Kochi, the number of photographers specializing in maternity photography is going up. Some hospitals offer maternity photography packages as well. However, experts say that maternity photo shoot cannot be arranged without proper planning and discussions with the client. The time, place, photographer and the budget should be planned in advance before actually capturing the shots.
Who should click?
Quality is a major factor while hiring a professional photographer for the photo shoot. Opinions of those who have done a shoot earlier could be sought. Besides, information about the photographers and the equipment they use could be searched through google or on the social media. Most of the professionals would have a portfolio which would make it easy for you to choose as per your requirements. It is, however, important to select a photographer who gives importance to your comfort and privacy.
One and only Swetha
Malayalam movie Kalimannu, directed by Blessy, beautifully captured the emotions and physical transformations of an expectant mother. Actress Swetha Menon, who played the lead role, was actually pregnant and the real delivery scene were the highlights of the movie. The song ‘Lalee Laleele’ which portrayed the beauty and charm of a pregnant Swetha was a big hit.
Right time
The third trimester is the most appropriate time to pose for a maternity photo shoot. Doctors say that it is safe to hold the photo shoot if the pregnant woman does not have any serious health issues. The photographer too suggests the third trimester to be the most amazing time when he/she can capture the most beautiful shots of the mother. The baby bump would be clearly visible in the pictures if they are taken during this time.
Costume
Loose and flowing outfits in crepe or chiffon would look amazing in the pictures. Some photographers would include costumes too in their package. Those who have an artistic flair can design their own costumes as well. However, personal preferences and comfort of the expectant mother should be given prime importance while choosing the outfits for the maternity photo shoot.
Location
Maternity photo shoots could be arranged indoors or outdoors. Outdoor photography incorporates the beauty of nature into the frames and makes it look more original and candid. Meanwhile, indoor photography is classier and is called portrait or styled photography. There are a few studios in Kochi which specializes in maternity photography.
Mesmerizing experience
Maternity photo shoot is not like clicking any other photographs. It is a perfect blend of art, creativity and patience. It is more of a shared experience than merely clicking away pictures. The love and friendship shared by the couple are clearly palpable in every frame.
Budget
There are several packages available from which the couple can choose from. The packages differ according to the services that are provided and also the number of photos clicked. Packages which begin from Rs 7500 are available. The rate would go up according to the services offered. However, budget shouldn’t be a constraint when it comes to the quality of the services.
Newborn Photography
Newborn photography too is becoming popular these days. However, this is a bit more expensive than the maternity photography. The cute pictures of the newborns would be clicked when they are 7 – 30 days old. The pure and innocent expressions of the newborn babies cannot be captured later.
In baby or kids photography, the candid pictures of babies until they turn 1 year old would be beautifully shot.
