Maternity @ 38 weeks

[rocksmysox]

Here's my first attempt at off camera lighting and maternity portraits. Just wanted to share and I'd also love some honest feedback about what you think. I still have a lot of learning to do. Thanks in advance!

1)


2)


3)

[djase1]

First off, great shots. I really love the composition in the first one. Her expression and positioning are wonderful. The third one is really good. I would have loved the last one if her hands would have been cradling the belly or something. To me, the shot looks a bit empty. Overall, i think they are very good shots. Thank you for sharing them.

[no.absolutes]

I love the second shot. I love that it showcases her tattoo and the change that pregnancy has caused!

[JustJim]

Doesn't the prospect of a new life make a wonderful image? Well done on all of them, great composition, lighting, contrast and post work.

One little pet peeve; while I understand the cultural need to show off the ring(s) on the 'ring finger' of the left hand in the first image, look at how much better her hand looks in the more oblique view in the second image.

Side on views (pinkie to the front, thumb to the back) of ladies hands are almost always more flattering. And that's what we're all about in portraits, isn't it?

Great work, thanks for sharing.

[rocksmysox]

Thank you all for the feedback! Great tips - I need and appreciate them all!

JustJim - Now that I look at the hand placement, I completely agree with what you are saying and will watch out for the next time around!

I didn't mention that these are actually self portraits of me, so considering I couldn't see what I was doing I hope they turned out alright! I needed a mirror or something so I could actually view my pose at the same time I was doing it! haha

[KEP]

These are beautiful. I love the first one, it has such a soft, feminine quality.

[dyimages]

I really like the post work you have done. I think it gives the shots a great look and feel.

In all 3 shots I think you did a great job lighting yourself. If I were to give one criticism of the first two shots it is the background. The shadow and slightly muddy look to them from a lack of light. If you look at shot 3 with white background the image of you pops off more.

I know it is hard especially if working with only 1 or 2 speed lights to get that nice pure white background but to me it is what makes image 3 stand out.

[precious]

I like the first and second. First especially, such a soft feminine feel to it. I love how the tattoo is shown in second image.

For self-portrait and posing you have done very well.

[TerryMC]

I love the first one as well. TFS.

[zona5101]

Beautiful job. Love the toning.