As an adopted child, I have no photos of my biological Mother. I have no idea what she looked like pregnant with me, or what I looked like as a newborn. It took me years to realize how important these two milestones are.
Pregnancy sessions showcase one of the fastest growing times in a Mother's life, yet the time to capture this milestone is short and fleeting. Just about when the tummy pops, the countdown to delivery begins. Capturing the pregnant Mothers image in the right time is crucial but just one part of the process. Carrying a baby to term inside the human body is one of life's most amazing miracles. Being able to showcase the beauty and strength of it in an art form is a privelege.
I have been a Photographer for 17 years. I started photographing pregnant Mothers day one, yet I had no idea how my work would evolve. I started a Maternity Dress line so I could give my clients something to wear for photo sessions. After designing dozens of gowns, I decided I needed something more. This past year after teaching for 9 years I realized I needed to show the students how to truly see the pregnant body. So I decided to work with a body painting artist. Working with an Artist to paint the pregnant body forced me to work with shapes and light and create a unique perspective - as no two images are ever the same. Add tossed silk or a milk bath and I took my work to a whole other level. Working with the pregnant body is one thing - working with moving elements, like silk fabrics and milk baths force me to go beyond my imagination and create a unique experience for each client.
Recently I was asked by someone who called my studio, why do people take pregnant photos. She said she called numerous Photography Studios and no one had an answer. The minute she asked me, I told her I had the answer.
It's for the next generation. It's for the unborn child. It may not be for everyone. But for me - if I had a photograph of my biological Mother when she was pregnant with me - or a newborn photo of me - it would mean the world to me. That's why I photograph pregnant woman - it's for the next generation.
{only the safest non toxic makeup is used for painting Pregnant Mamas}
Ana Brandt
www.anabrandt.com
www.bellybabylove.com
www.instagram.com/anabrandt
youtube - www.anabrandtvideos.com
facebook.com/bellybabylove
More info: Facebook
Ana Brandt working with Body Makeup Painter in NYC
Flower Goddess
Silk and safe makeup are used for this image capture.
Mexican Mama
I captured this image when teaching in Mexico. Three layers of silk require constant tossing to achieve just the right capture.
Seattle Mama
Photographed in Seattle with nothing but a single light and silk.
NYC Model Mama
NYC Mama
Milk Bath Maternity
