With Covid-19 requiring social distancing, Atlanta photographers must learn to reframe over reschedule photo shoots.
This wonderful couple contacted me because their original maternity photographer cancelled on them at the last minute. I can’t imagine the stress! Their doula is a friend of mine and recommended they reach out to me. Social distancing was in place and they wanted to be sure I could actually photograph them without coming within 6 ft of them.
Not only were we able to have a successful social distancing photo shoot, but I made new friends!
[We plan on getting together for tacos once it’s safe to do so]
Now we are at 4 million Covid-19 cases and 4K+ daily. I don’t know when we will resume our regular photography sessions, but we don’t have the luxury of “rescheduling” maternity or newborn photoshoots. Time does not wait for the pandemic to subside.
I made this blog post to help clients know what to expect from their photography session, while showing a maternity shoot where we actually implemented social distancing. Towards the end I will also add more traditional photography tips/tricks that are applicable.
Social distancing photoshoot requirements:
Have patience. Many moms come to me because they know I will help pose/adjust them to look their best. Previously I could just walk over and help them maneuver into the perfect angle, but with social distancing, I have to “mirror” their body while they attempt to understand what I’m asking. This takes patience and sometimes takes a few tries. I will get into the pose and you copy me. You can also count on me directing you slightly with phrases like, “Drop your right shoulder” and/or “Point your belly button towards the water.”
Bring a mirror. Normally during my shoots, I can fix hair/makeup for the mom. It’s hot in GA and hair/makeup can melt. Now moms can use the mirror and see what adjustments can be made.
Bring a partner. During this shoot, her wonderful hubby adjusted her dress the entire time. Her and I would point and he would fix fabric, move foliage, etc. He also brought a backpack filled with snacks and water for her since I can no longer offer refreshments.
6ft away is OK! Yes, I’m dorky. During the shoot, if I noticed that we were getting close to each other, I would say, “Happy 6ft away day!” and we would all laugh. It’s more gentle than “Hey, back up!” to get space between us. I also bring my zoom lenses and shoot a larger file size so I’m able to crop the image to get closeups.
Wearing a mask. I will be wearing my mask for majority of the shoot, but pulling it off my nose intermittently should my viewfinder fog. I’ve ordered some new masks to see if I can alleviate this problem. But since we are most often more than 6ft apart, it hasn’t been an issue. If you want to see the the image I just took, I will show you the back of my camera while I’m wearing a mask. Should I need to get close to you for any reason, I will be wearing my mask. If you need to see my facial expression, mouth, or can’t hear me, I will back away from you and pull down the mask. Many of my clients are not concerned about me wearing a mask and miss the intimacy of face-to-face. I assure you that my occasional singing and dancing will def make you feel like you’re part of my family. It has been hard at times, but since I’m regularly photographing newborns, it’s best I be extra cautious.
Pre plan. Have your outfits picked out and ready to go. The most successful shoots have been ones where the mom has already picked/laid out her outfits and pre-planned a few poses. You can text me your outfits laid out prior to the shoot. I love helping plan!
Bring a bag and keep your pockets empty. I’ve noticed a few times the dad has failed to empty his pockets. This can’t be fixed in photoshop and can be distracting. Also look out for smart watches and/or hair ties you may not want to be photographed.
Nails. Your hands will show at a maternity shoot. I hear a lot of moms wish they had either removed polish, or put on a fresh coat.
Undergarments. Whether you’re wearing something tight or something possibly see-thru, your undergarments matter. Take time to try on your outfits prior to the shoot and ask for feedback on if anything needs to be swapped out. Most moms have had luck with maternity spanx as they don’t leave a panty line and smooth things out with it’s thick spandex material.
Be real too. I think we all want to feel like the maternal goddess we are when pregnant and it’s fun to make things dramatic! But your little one(s) will also want to see the day-to-day. Wear your glasses or your favorite maternity dress for a few pics.
Pregnant? (YAY!) Have questions about my pictures, coronavirus safety and/or hiring me for careful + customized Maternity Photography?
Use the contact form above and contact me! I only take 2-3 clients a month and book up quickly.