There's certainly no shortage of trends in maternity and newborn photography these days — whether you're looking to pose with zoo animals painted on your belly or make your tiny baby into a literal work of art or simply channel your inner supermodel in a beautiful seaside shoot — but the latest fad is one of our favorites yet: milk bath photos, which put a wholesome and natural spin on the water birth theme for irresistibly whimsical results.
We asked photographer (and mom of four!) Stefanie Zeltner of Joie de Vivre Photography why she thinks milk bath photo sessions are the hottest thing in pregnancy and baby photo shoots now:
"As far as why they have become popular, my only guess is because they are very earthy and natural," she told CafeMom.
"Water is calming and warm and soft, and the flowers and milk add a very ethereal quality to the images. Maternity milk bath shots are lovely because they are so organic, all about the mother and her belly and her bond with her unborn child."
When you see Zeltner's photos (and those of the other photographers featured in our slideshow), we're sure you'll agree. Milk, it does do a body good!
Image via joiedevivrephotography/Instagram
Petal Power
We love the blue tint on the milk in this photo, and how perfectly it contrasts with the floating purple flowers.
Pretty in Pink
There's a reason pink is our favorite color … How romantic and gorgeous is this shot?
A Gorgeous Wife, Indeed
Swoon! How romantic is this, seriously?
Belly Blossoms
This mama-to-be looks like a modern-day fertility goddess in this naturally lovely pic. (And we bet her skin was super soft afterward, too.)
More from CafeMom: Mom Turns Baby Bumps into Works of Art for Stunning Maternity Photo Shoots
It's a Wrap
The gauzy wrap around this expectant mom's mid-section is a delicate, ethereal touch.
Modestly Beautiful
You don't have to show all your skin for a milk bath photo to be breathtakingly beautiful.
Striking Silhouette
What better way to show off those pregnancy curves? It almost looks like the flowers are growing alongside her!
Daisy Chain
A pool filled with milk and flowers might not be the most comfortable place to take a nap, but it is one of the most picturesque!
Leche & Lace
The Victorian vibe of the lace in these photos is so incredibly romantic.
More from CafeMom: 10 Pro Tips for a Gorgeous Maternity Photo Shoot
Double Exposure
We love how the flowers in the bath coordinate with this new mom-to-be's beautiful tattoos!
Serenity
These images truly capture the bliss and beauty of bonding with your unborn baby.
Spring Awakening
The vivid green gives this shot a gorgeous, life-affirming look. Spectacular.
Peek-a-Tattoo
Truly a work of art, this shot highlights mama's amazing tattoo.
And Baby Makes Two!
We couldn't resist adding some newborn milk bath photos here. Sweet dreams, little angel! The funny thing is, chances are this adorable baby is dreaming of … milk!
Dairy Queen
This mini muffin looks perfectly pleased with her time in the tub. Those cheeks, though!!
Bright Eyes
This photo is seriously straight out of a fairy tale. We wouldn't be at all surprised if there were legit magical forest creatures dancing around right out of frame!
