The Bump Kiss

How to set up The Bump Kiss

1. Set the frame before anyone moves. The Bump Kiss wants a full-length frame that includes feet and a little ground, with 2 people already close enough to touch. The partner kneels and kisses the bump. A favorite for showing the partner's excitement.
2. Get them into the standing shape, then say this once and stop directing: "Kneel down and give your baby a gentle kiss."
3. While they hold it, make one flatter change and shoot again. Mom should look down at the partner with a soft chin to keep the moment connected.
4. If the first frame feels stiff, do not rebuild the group. Try this next: Partner talks to the bump.

Who it suits

The Bump Kiss is a maternity pose. The bump needs a reason to be in the frame. It suits 2 people and a standing shape. It is beginner: one clear sentence is enough direction. Include the whole body so the bump sits in a person, not a cropped belly.

Where to shoot and how to light it

Shoot The Bump Kiss outside. A path, lawn, beach, step or open field is enough. Pick a background quieter than the people: one tree or a plain horizon beats a busy street. Keep the group in outdoor light, which the next section covers.

For The Bump Kiss, use open shade or late-day sun. Direct noon light squints eyes and blows out light clothing, especially on a standing pose where people cannot tilt a hat into place. If the sun is behind the group, expose for the faces and let the background go bright.

The usual miss on The Bump Kiss is a gap, a straight line of heads, or a face waiting for the next instruction. Mom should look down at the partner with a soft chin to keep the moment connected. Then take the frame before anyone resets.

Variations

• Partner talks to the bump
• Partner listens with ear to belly
• Kids join kneeling