What to Wear for a Maternity Photoshoot [Full Guide]
With my years of experience photographing moms-to-be, I’ve seen it all and have some great tips to share with you! Not only will I help you choose the perfect outfit, but I’ll also share some insider tricks to make you look and feel your best in front of the camera.
When it comes to maternity photography, your outfit can make all the difference. It’s important to choose something that not only flatters your changing body, but also reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident and comfortable. Trust me, the last thing you want is to be fidgeting with your clothes or feeling self-conscious about your appearance. Let’s dive in and find the perfect outfit for your maternity shoot!
Tips for finding the perfect maternity dresses
From picking the right fabric, to considering the flow and fit of the dress, to deciding between a short or long dress, these few tips will help guide you in finding the perfect dress for your maternity photoshoot.
Choose a Dress That Flatters Your Shape
The first and most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a maternity photoshoot dress is to pick one that flatters your body shape.
You want to embrace and accentuate your curves and show off your beautiful baby bump, so choose a dress that does just that!
A-line dresses, empire waist dresses, and wrap dresses are all different styles and great options for highlighting your beautiful bump and creating a flattering silhouette.
Embrace your curves: If you’re feeling confident and want to show off your bump, consider a form-fitting silhouette that hugs your curves and accentuates your baby bump. A Bodycon dress or a fitted gown would work well.
A flowy dress: Flowy dresses are not only comfortable but also create a soft and dreamy effect in your photos, pair it with a flowery background or a location where you are surrounded by flowers.
Pay attention to the neckline: V-neck and scoop necklines are great for creating a flattering and feminine look, while a boat neck or off-the-shoulder neckline can add a touch of glamour to your photos.
Highlight your waist: If you want to show off your waistline, choose a silhouette that cinches at the waist. An empire waist dress is a great option for this look.
Experiment with layers: Layers can add texture and interest to your photos, and can also help you feel more comfortable. Consider adding a cardigan, scarf, or wrap to your outfit.
Short dress vs long dress: If you want to show off your legs, a knee-length dress or maxi skirt is a great option. If you prefer a longer, more elegant look, a full-length dress or gown is perfect to make you feel like the supermodel you are. You can even choose a dress with a high-low hemline to show off a little leg while still keeping the length of the dress in the back.
Consider the Season
In a studio maternity photo session this is not as important as the temperature is often controlled but if you are planning an outdoor maternity shoot, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather- during the summer, go for light and airy fabrics that will keep you cool and if you’re having your photoshoot in the winter, consider wearing a coat or sweater to keep warm.
Not only will the season affect the location and background of your photoshoot, but it will also impact the type of clothing you choose to wear:
Spring: Opt for light and airy dresses in pastel colors. A flowy maxi dress in a soft hue like powder blue or blush pink would be perfect for a spring photoshoot. This season is all about embracing the new beginnings, so don’t be afraid to experiment with florals, ruffles and delicate lace.
Summer: Bright and bold colors are a must for a summer maternity photo shoot. Think about fun and flirty sundresses in cheerful hues like yellow, pink, and green or a crop top and jeans. If you want to beat the heat, choose lighter fabrics like cotton or linen. To add a pop of color, consider accessorizing with a bold statement necklace or a colorful headband.
Fall: Embrace the season’s warm and rich hues with a dress in deep burgundy, mustard or forest green. Opt for a long-sleeve midi or maxi dress in a lightweight fabric that will keep you comfortable while showcasing your beautiful belly. To add some texture, consider pairing with a cozy cardigan or scarf, or get creative with some puffed sleeves!
Winter: For a winter maternity photoshoot, think about luxurious fabrics like velvet or satin. You can choose a long-sleeve, form-fitting dress in a rich jewel-tone like emerald green, navy or ruby red. To stay warm and add a touch of glamour, consider wearing a faux fur vest or a chunky knit cardigan.
Consider the Fabric
There are several fabrics that are great for maternity clothes, each with their own unique qualities that make them ideal for photoshoots.
Here are a few of the best fabrics for maternity outfits:
Soft Knits: Soft knits like jersey, modal, and bamboo are stretchy, lightweight and perfect for maternity clothes because these fabrics move with your body, making them comfortable and easy to wear, the perfect “feel great” casual outfit!
Chiffon: Chiffon is a lightweight, airy, breathable fabric that provides a flowy and romantic look. It’s perfect for a beach maternity photoshoot where you want to capture the breeze in your photos. A flowy chiffon maxi dress with a high-low hemline would be a stunning choice.
Lace: Lace is a beautiful and delicate material that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your maternity photoshoot. This timeless fabric that has been used in fashion for centuries. The intricate details of the lace will add dimension and texture to your photos and give them a stunning visual effect. It’s also soft, flowy and lightweight, making it perfect for draping and flowing gracefully in your maternity photos keeping you comfortable.
A form-fitting lace maternity dress with long sleeves and a high neckline would be a beautiful choice for a more formal maternity photoshoot.
Silk: Silk is a luxurious fabric made from the fibers of the silkworm, which is a type of caterpillar that spins a cocoon around itself. This fabric provides a soft and smooth look and is perfect for for a studio maternity photoshoot because of its sheen- it has a subtle shine that adds an element of glamour to your photos. When the light hits it, it creates a beautiful, radiant glow that makes your skin look stunning.
Another great quality of silk is its drapability. This fabric has a natural flow and drapes beautifully, which makes it ideal for a flowing maternity photoshoot dress. This can help you create a more relaxed, natural look in your photos, especially if you’re wearing a dress with a high-waisted cut that falls below your bump. The fabric will move with you, and this will help to accentuate your bump and make it the focus of your photo. A form-fitting silk dress with a scoop neckline would also be a great idea.
Comfort is Key
Above all, choose a dress or outfit that is comfortable, not too tight, and allows you to move freely. You want to be comfortable and relaxed during your maternity session, not constantly having to adjust your clothing.
Choosing the Best Colors for Your Maternity Photos
The right color palette is important to consider when choosing your maternity photoshoot outfits.
Neutral Colors: Neutral colors, such as black, white, and beige, are a classic choice for maternity portraits. These colors are timeless, versatile, and can be easily coordinated with other elements of your outfit. Neutral colors can also create a simple and elegant look that will never go out of style. See our guide on black and white maternity shoots.
Soft Pastels: Soft pastel colors, such as light pink, blue, and green, can add a gentle and feminine touch to your maternity photos. These colors can complement your skin tone and create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Bold Colors: Bold colors, such as red, purple, or yellow, can add energy and excitement to your maternity photos. These colors can create a dramatic and eye-catching look, and are ideal for those who want to make a statement with their maternity portraits.
Color Coordination: Consider coordinating the colors of your maternity dress with the background of your photos. If you will be posing in front of a green or lush environment, choose a dress in a complementary color, such as a soft pink or blue, to add depth and dimension to your photos.
Personal Preference: Choose colors that make you feel confident and beautiful. The most important factor is that you love the way you look and feel in your maternity dress, so choose colors that you feel comfortable and confident in.
Consider Your Background: The background of your photoshoot can have a big impact on the way your outfit looks in the maternity photos. If you’re shooting against a brightly colored background, consider wearing a different color so that you don’t blend in.
Opt for Colors That Complement Your Skin Tone: If you’re not sure what colors look best on you, try looking at clothing you already own that flatters you and take note of the colors.
Tip: Avoid Neon and extra Bright Colors
Neon and bright colors can appear overly vibrant in photos and can be distracting. They can also cast an unflattering color cast on your skin. If you want to wear a bright color, opt for a softer, muted version of the hue.
Accessorize (within reason)
Accessorizing is a great, fun way to add some personality and flair to your maternity photoshoot but don’t over do it! Simple and elegant pieces, like a pair of earrings, a delicate necklace, or a statement bracelet, add personality without distraction.
Book a shoot with Oxana Alex Photograpy and get ready to feel like a superstar! We’ve got you covered with high-end, designer wardrobe, jewelry, and accessories, all included at no extra cost with every maternity session.
What to wear for a maternity mommy and me session
For mommy and me sessions, I recommend choosing colors that complement each other, and always choosing your outfit first! Whether you’re thinking of coordinating your outfits with your child’s, selecting colors within the same palette or going with a theme, see this full article for inspiration: 13 Ideas for the Perfect Mommy and Me Photoshoot Outfits.
What to wear for maternity photo shoot with your family
When it comes to a family maternity session, whether you’re going for a holiday theme to classing one, the right outfits can create a cohesive look and highlight the special bond between family members. See this guide packed with Tips for Taking Beautiful Maternity Photos with Family Members.
How to choose the best maternity photographer for your session
Choosing the right maternity photographer is the most important step to having a great experience and stunning photos. You will want to look at their pregnancy photography portfolio, see reviews from past women that came before you and communicate with them to book early, see the best time for maternity photos.
At Oxana Alex Photography in Los Angeles, we get booked 3 months in advance so make sure to contact us to schedule your maternity shoot early.
Other things to consider are pricing and location. Here is our full guide on How to Choose the Best Maternity Photographer for your Session.
Bonus: Great Maternity Clothing Brands
From high-end fashion brands to more affordable options, here are a few great maternity clothing brands you can look at when shopping for your maternity photoshoot:
Seraphine
Seraphine is a well-known maternity fashion brand that offers a wide range of stylish and comfortable dresses for maternity photos. From elegant maxi dresses to chic midi dresses, textured clothing and blue jeans with stretchy fabric. Seraphine has something for everyone.
Pink Blush Maternity
Pink Blush Maternity offers a collection of beautiful and trendy maternity dresses, perfect for photoshoots. Their dresses are designed to be comfortable and supportive, with a focus on style and fashion.
Isabella Oliver
Isabella Oliver is a high-end maternity fashion brand that offers a collection of stylish and sophisticated dresses for maternity photoshoots. From wrap dresses to fitted dresses, their pieces are designed to flatter your growing baby bump.
ASOS Maternity
ASOS Maternity offers a wide range of fashionable and affordable maternity dresses, perfect for photoshoots. Their collection features a range of styles, from casual to formal, so you’re sure to find the perfect dress for your photoshoot.
Motherhood Maternity
Motherhood Maternity is a popular maternity fashion brand that offers a collection of stylish and comfortable maternity dresses for photoshoots. From flowy maxi dresses to figure-hugging bodycon dresses, their collection has something for everyone.
HATCH Collection
HATCH Collection is a high-end maternity fashion brand that offers a collection of stylish and unique maternity dresses, perfect for photoshoots. Their dresses are designed to be versatile and comfortable, making them a great choice for any occasion.
At Oxana Alex Photography in Los Angeles We believe every expecting mom deserves to look and feel her best during her maternity session. That’s why we offer a curated selection of high-end, designer wardrobe, jewelry, and accessories, all included with every session at no extra charge. See sessions and pricing here. See our Yelp reviews here.
Conclusion
When preparing what to wear for a maternity photoshoot, your clothing choices are just as important as the location and lighting. When I was pregnant with my own kids, I was so focused on capturing the beauty and joy of my pregnancy that I almost forgot about what I was going to wear in the photos. But then I remembered a friend telling me how she always felt more confident and comfortable in outfits that reflected her personal style.
I took her advice and chose an outfit that made me feel beautiful and confident and the results were amazing. I hope the tips above helped you and I encourage you to choose an outfit that makes you feel good. It’s all about wearing what makes you feel comfortable and confident during your maternity photo session. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in the final photos!
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
