Finally, real women have something in common with Beyoncé. Two weeks ago, an Instagram post announcing her pregnancy — with Queen Bey clad in curve-hugging lingerie and a veil in front of a wall of flowers — practically broke the internet. To date, it’s racked up more than 10.4 millions likes.
While some people saw the photo and assumed it was the product of literal Hollywood navel-gazing, many pregnant women saw a photo not so dissimilar from ones they have in their own albums.
As social media has exploded, more and more photographers across the country have seen pregnant clients photo-directing their maternity shots, incorporating elaborate costumes, settings, pets and props to mark the future arrival of their little bundle of joy.
“Many of my clients come to me looking for a maternity shoot that’s unique and encompasses some of their life story,” says Laney DiMezza, owner of Laney Lane Photography in Runnemede, NJ. DiMezza, who chronicled her own pregnancy by getting her belly painted with a koi fish to represent the Pisces baby she was carrying, says the resulting experience is memorable for all parties. “Family heirlooms and fun props always make for a more interesting and unique experience.”
Here, eight women share the stories behind their one-of-a-kind maternity photos.
