One of the most common questions I get is what to wear for maternity photos. And it makes sense. What works in real life does not always photograph well. My goal is simple. I want your bump to stand out. I want you to look polished. And I want the process to feel easy.
Below are my best tips to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully.
Start With the Shape
This matters more than anything else. The silhouette of your outfit makes or breaks maternity photos.
Look for pieces that are fitted through the chest and belly. This clearly defines your bump. Avoid anything loose or oversized. Baggy clothing hides the very thing we are celebrating.
Dresses are often the easiest choice. Form-fitting dresses or tops paired with structured skirts work very well. If the outfit does not show your bump in the mirror, it will not show it on camera.
Skip Dark Colors
I strongly recommend avoiding black and other dark tones. This includes navy and maroon. Dark colors absorb light and reduce contrast. As a result, your bump does not stand out.
Light to medium tones photograph best. Soft neutrals and muted colors give shape and depth without overpowering the image.
Be Careful With White
Pure white is discouraged. It does not show contrast well and can flatten the image. Softer shades like cream, ivory, or oatmeal photograph much better and still feel clean and classic.
Avoid Large Prints and Bold Patterns
Big patterns pull attention away from you. Stripes are especially tricky on camera. Large florals can also feel overwhelming.
If you want some visual interest, choose texture instead. Solid colors with texture photograph far better than busy prints.
Texture Is Your Best Friend
I love texture in maternity sessions. Ribbed knits, lace, gauze, and soft woven fabrics add depth without distraction. Texture keeps an outfit interesting while still keeping the focus on your bump.
Smooth, stiff fabrics tend to photograph flat. Extremely stretchy fabrics can cling in unflattering ways. Look for materials that move gently and hold their shape.
Layers Add Variety
Layers are always a win. Open cardigans, fitted sweaters worn open, or light jackets give us options without a full outfit change.
Layers also help with movement and posing. Small adjustments can create a completely different look during the session.
Choose Simple Necklines
Clean necklines photograph best. V-necks, scoop necks, and off-the-shoulder styles work well. Avoid high, tight necklines that cut across your body and shorten lines.
The goal is softness and ease, not structure that feels restrictive.
Think About Comfort
Comfort still matters. If you feel stiff or uncomfortable, it will show. Choose outfits you can move in easily. When you feel relaxed, the images reflect that.
What Your Partner or Kids Should Wear
If your partner or children are included, coordination matters. Matching outfits are not necessary and often work against you.
Avoid anything overly stiff on your partner. This includes formal button-down shirts or structured dress shirts. They can photograph rigid and pull attention away from you. On the other end, skip anything too casual like athletic wear or graphic tees.
Soft, well-fitted pieces work best. Casual button-downs, sweaters, henleys, or simple layers photograph cleanly. Neutral or muted tones help create separation without blending everyone together.
Undergarments Matter More Than You Think
Seamless underwear is a must. Visible seams create distractions. Choose undergarments that work with the fabric and color of your outfit.
Make sure bra straps will not show. Strapless options or adhesive solutions can be helpful depending on the neckline.
Bring a Second Option
I always recommend bringing a second outfit. It gives us more variety and flexibility during your session. Sometimes that second look is another dress. Sometimes it is something more casual. Both work beautifully.
If your full family is being photographed, one outfit is perfectly fine for those images. The second look can be reserved for photos of just you and your bump.
Another option is a more minimal look with more skin and belly showing. This can be very simple and very powerful. Most locations I photograph at do require full clothing, but showing off your belly is always welcome and encouraged if you are comfortable with it.
Styling Help Is Included
After booking, you will receive access to my What to Wear styling tool. It includes outfit guidance and direct links to places where you can shop. This removes guesswork and saves time.
If you are ever unsure, just ask. A quick photo or link is enough. I would much rather help before the session than wish we had made different choices later.
The goal is simple. Show the bump. Keep the focus on you. Choose pieces that fit well and photograph softly. When that happens, everything else falls into place.
