Tips + Techniques


Milk Bath Photography: 8 Tips to Get Started

December 8, 2020

By Elizabeth Messina

After an electrical fire destroyed the studio in my Southern California home, I rebuilt knowing I wanted to create a bathroom with gorgeous natural light and a clawfoot tub that I could use for milk bath photography for a variety of sessions, including maternity, newborn and beauty shoots.

I love photographing milk bath photography because there is something so ethereal and romantic about them when done well. I also love the natural, minimalistic feel of these images—thanks to the white negative space, you can really focus on your model’s face and body. Along the way, I have developed tips to creating milk bath portraits your clients can’t help but love. Here are eight easy ones to get you started.

[Read: The Next Natural Step: Branching out From Wedding Photography to New Newborn Photography]

Milk Bath Photography Tips

  1. Keep the Environment Safe and the Water Temperature Comfortable
  2. Use Different Types and Amounts of Milk
  3. Plan Your Water Depth Before Your Subject Gets in the Tub
  4. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible
  5. Get in a Safe Position and Always Use a Camera Strap
  6. Experiment with Different Cameras and Lenses
  7. Incorporate Lingerie, Real Flowers and Other Props
  8. Shoot from Different Angles to Create Unique Milk Bath Photography


Keep the Environment Safe and the Water Temperature Comfortable

One of the most important elements to begin with is the temperature of the bath water. As a rule of thumb, slightly warmer than lukewarm is best. 

I want to be sure my subject is very comfortable but not too hot. This is especially important when you’re working with pregnant women and babies. If the water is too hot, it will steam your lens as you photograph your subject. Also, you don’t want anyone slipping or falling, including you, so make sure to keep everything dry and clean throughout the session.

You might also want to consider using something underneath your subject’s head for comfort, and safety, if the bath is deep.

[Read: The Creative Photographer’s Guide to Self-Portraits with Kids]

Use Different Types and Amounts of Milk to Achieve Unique Portraits

My favorite type of milk to use is either almond milk or coconut milk; each produces a cloudy look, which I find really beautiful. The more milk you add, the more opaque and milky-white the water will become. My favorite look is on the subtle side, so I only use 2 to 3 cups of milk for a translucent yet cloudy bath.

While it’s not my preferred look, some photographers use whole milk or even evaporated milk for these sessions, and up to one to two gallons of milk. With powdered milk, you have to draw the bath with very hot water to avoid clumps.

Whatever you use, just be prepared to adjust as you go along—the key to a successful milk bath photography session is to adapt as you go along. if you add too much milk, let a little water out and then add water back in. If the water is too translucent, add more milk. The fun part is figuring out what looks best for the look you want, so keep experimenting until you get the look you want.

Plan Your Water Depth Before Your Subject Gets In the Tub

If the tub is too full, it can actually be challenging for your subject to hold a position. I like to fill it just enough so that my subject’s body is partly submerged. This will vary from person to person, but I suggest you start filling the tub to about 12 inches, then see how it looks. I always fill the bath and add the milk before my client gets in.

Use Natural Light Whenever Possible

The tub in my studio is directly below a large window, so there is often beautiful available light to work with. Although most of my work continues to be film, I do test shots both with my iPhone and my digital camera.

Of course, not everyone’s tub is located next to a window. In that case, you might try a large softbox or even flash bounced off of a neutral-colored ceiling that can help mimic the effect. I stay away from using flash because if it reflects on the water, it can ruin the shot (as will overhead lighting). It can also make your bath look even whiter than it really is. Some people like that look. I prefer natural light because it can create a more ethereal feel and softens shadows.

Get in a Safe Position and Always Use a Camera Strap

It sounds like common sense, but you’d be surprised what some people do to get the shot. Don’t try to stand on the edge of the tub or climb onto an unsteady surface to get the photo. Bring the necessary accessories needed, which can include step stools, ladders and boom stands.

I like to keep things simple: I have a sturdy stool that fits right next to my tub. When I am ready to shoot, I have an assistant nearby to help me up and down. I love shooting overhead, but I also want my camera and my subject to be safe. Always wear a camera strap so you can shoot without worry.

Experiment with Different Cameras and Lenses

I typically shoot with my Contax 645 and an 88mm Zeiss lens, but I also sometimes use my digital camera, a Canon 5D Mark IV, with a 50 mm lens. I will also do a few shots with a wider lens—a 45mm on my Contax and a 35mm on my Canon.

I highly suggest doing some test shots on your phone too. I find that helps me a lot with the composition I am seeking. I also sometimes use my iPhone to make mini films of the sessions.

Making the Most of Milk Bath Photography: Incorporate Lingerie, Real Flowers and Other Props

I love a simple, clean milk bath with nothing else in it, but for more visual interest, I do like to add flowers and props when I want more depth and mood in the shot.

The first thing I consider, though, is wardrobe. A simple slip or night gown can work well, as the fabric will get more see through when wet, which looks really beautiful in a milk bath. I also have a few vintage pieces that I incorporate from time to time—tulle or lace works really well. This is the time where you can have some fun and experiment. You can also try a nude photo shoot, if your subject is willing, to emphasizes the smoothness of the skin and the shape of the body.

Real flowers float—fake ones don’t! Sometimes I’ll use a single stem; other times, I’ll go for a tub full of flowers. There is no single right way to do it, but it is better to add your props to the bath tub after your model has settled down into it. This will help everything stay afloat. Just remember to have extras on hand because flowers will wilt quickly if the water is too hot.

If your budget doesn’t allow for real flowers, you can try keeping the fake ones afloat with the use of some bubble wrap. Cut a hole in the middle of the wrap small enough for only the stem to fit, push the piece of wrapping up under the flower head and make sure it is fully covered.

Shoot from Different Angles to Create Unique Milk Bath Photography

Be sure to try shooting from different angles; not only from above. Some of my favorite images are from the side. I’ll even have my subject sit on the side of the tub. In many of my milk bath shots, you will see just a leg or a pregnant tummy and hands or a subject that looks upside down. Capturing the entire experience from different perspectives allows much more variety and looks that you can have really get creative with.

For more information or to sign up for my Milk Bath workshops in 2021, click here.

Elizabeth Messina is an award-winning artist and passionate wedding and portrait photographer whose images are powerful and intimate, a sublime balance between light, composition and emotion. Sought after by a discerning clientele, Messina’s images have graced the covers and pages of countless magazines and books, and she has conducted countless workshop and spoken at numerous conferences, including WPPI, around the world.