| 1. |
Be prepared. Have wardrobe, hair and makeup planned a week before the shoot. Experiment with what makes you comfortable — your husband's leather coat (worn open) may look better than a bra that makes you feel self-conscious.
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| 2. |
Location, Location, Location. When planning where to shoot, think about the background you'll be creating for your subject and where she may feel most comfortable: an art room, bedroom, office — be comfortable.
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| 3. |
Be Patient. It takes time for subjects to relax, and they rely on your direction. Don't be afraid to praise the model, or to ask that they move into a flattering (not always comfortable!) position.
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| 4. |
Don't Force an Image. The shot you have in mind may not be the perfect shot at all. When I photographed Dee Dee and Dan Cortese, we were in an atmosphere, and they were very posed. Then we went out on the beach and a wave hit them — that organic moment of giggle and delight is what made it into the book.
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| 5. |
Music Is Essential. Play serene, quiet music, softly at the shoot. I like "Anya," but you and your subject can decide what puts you both most at ease.
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| 6. |
Abandon Body Makeup. It never looks quite right and — on a growing belly — it can read inelegantly on film. No one will notice your stretch marks.
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| 7. |
Hit the Lights. Keep lighting warm and natural, use indirect or ambient light if possible. Choosing a private, outdoor location and shooting in early evening is optimum in many areas.
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| 8. |
Forget Everything Your Mother Told You About Posture. The most flattering positions for photographing a pregnant woman are sitting (on a chair or on the floor, cross-legged), kneeling (believe it or not) or laying on her side.
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| 9. |
Focus on Each Other. If multiple subjects are being photographed, ask that they focus their attention on each other instead of the camera. Amazing things can happen. I captured Shawn and Larry King when Larry was pointing at Shawn's belly and their unborn son. The photo is one of the sweetest images in my book.
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| 10. |
Have Fun! The photos you take — even the imperfect ones — will become lasting images illustrating the beginning of a wonderful life. Focus on the moment and enjoy the day so you'll have a great story to go along with the pictures you'll treasure for years!
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