Tips for Choosing Outfits for Your Maternity Photoshoot

One of the top questions I get when people book me for a photoshoot is, “What should I wear?” It’s a great question and one I get a lot. Over the years, I’ve written plenty of posts about what photographs well (including this one that I highly suggest you read after this one!), but maternity sessions deserve their own category. You’re in this short, beautiful, often exhausting phase of life, and what you wear can make a huge difference in how confident and comfortable you feel during your session. So, if you’ve been scouring Pinterest or your closet for outfit ideas for maternity photos, this one’s for you.

Let’s break down my top tips for choosing what to wear for your maternity shoot, focusing on pieces that not only flatter your bump but also let your joy and personality shine through.

Embrace the bump

You’ve spent months growing this tiny human, so don’t hide it! Form-fitting dresses and tops are your best friend when it comes to maternity photos. Stretchy, body-hugging fabrics like jersey or knit will accentuate your shape beautifully while still letting you move comfortably. A long, fitted gown creates stunning lines and photographs especially well in both studio and outdoor settings.

If flowy is more your style, that works too. Just make sure the dress still defines your shape. A fitted bodice with a flowy skirt, especially one with a slit or layers of chiffon, can create dreamy movement in your images. The goal is to show off your bump, not cover it up under layers of fabric.

When looking for outfit ideas for maternity photos, try on a few different silhouettes before your session. Sometimes the ones you least expect to love end up being the most flattering once you see them on camera.

Skip black and large patterns

While black might feel slimming in person, it tends to flatten out shapes on camera, and we want to highlight your curves, not lose them. Similarly, large patterns can compete with your belly for attention and may even warp or stretch awkwardly across your bump, which can be distracting in photos.

If you love patterns, stick to smaller, subtle prints instead. Florals, delicate dots, or soft textures can add visual interest without pulling focus away from you. These photograph beautifully and still keep the emphasis on your growing baby and your connection.

Neutral tones, soft pastels, and earthy hues like cream, blush, sage, or tan are also great alternatives to bold prints. They complement every setting, whether you’re shooting in the studio or outdoors. If your family is joining in, coordinate with complementary colors rather than matching exactly. This keeps the look cohesive but still natural.

Pick your undergarments wisely

This might not sound glamorous, but it’s one of the most important outfit tips. The wrong bra or underwear can create lines, bulges, or awkward shapes that distract from an otherwise perfect photo. Choose seamless, nude-toned undergarments that match your skin and won’t show through light fabrics.

If your dress has a slit or thinner material, consider maternity shapewear that smooths everything comfortably without feeling restrictive. And if you’re wearing an off-shoulder or strapless gown, bring a supportive strapless bra that fits well. Bonus points if it’s comfortable enough to wear for a few hours.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, the best outfit ideas for maternity photos are the ones that make you feel like yourself: confident, radiant, and comfortable. Whether you’re wearing a sleek gown in the studio or a breezy dress in a sunlit field, what you wear should help you move freely and feel beautiful.

Pregnancy is such a fleeting and magical time. Choosing the right outfit isn’t just about looking good; it’s about documenting how this season felt. When you look back at these images years from now, you’ll see more than just what you wore. You’ll remember the anticipation, the excitement, and the love that was already growing right alongside that perfect bump.