you're glowing!
It's great to see you preparing for your maternity photo shoot, and I'm excited to help you choose the perfect outfit. Here are some tips that work best for the camera.
A long dress with ample fabric for draping is always a great choice. Long dresses are perfect for concealing swollen ankles while showing off your bump. Flowy dresses help create long lines and provide images with plenty of motion and something to play with. Cue the twirl! Look for a dress that is tight-up top and snug just above the belly.
If you opt for pants, I recommend pairing a loose off-shoulder sweater or a loose-fitting top that allows for draping. These looks will give you similar benefits to a maxi dress.
For an in-home session, you can do multiple looks and opt for something more intimate, like pajamas or a silky robe with pretty underwear for a romantic touch. And if you're worried about shoes, there’s no need to stress—you can go barefoot for an indoor session. If outdoors, I'd recommend a comfy, neutral flat, especially for walking to the location. If you choose heels, pack them with you.
While choosing an outfit for your maternity photos, remember that the focus is on you and your beautiful baby bump. If you want to add some texture to your look, consider knits, gauze, and crepe fabrics, as they can add a special touch to your portraits. It's best to steer clear of stiff cotton & linen, as they don't flow nicely and wrinkle easily. While this looks good in person, I’d avoid super stretchy fabric, even though tons of maternity dresses are made from it. This fabric shows every little bump on camera, so if you have a bra on, you can see all the bumps on your back and side. It also can cling awkwardly to your legs while you walk.
Consider the season & backdrop. If you are taking photos in Central Park during the lush spring, don’t wear green. Earth tones and jewel tones work well against a variety of backdrops. Choose colors and patterns that highlight your natural skin tone. Contrary to popular belief, black is not an excellent choice for maternity photos. Why? It's a naturally slimming color that can do its job so well that it hides your baby bump and shows every piece of lint or pet hair from your home.
Undergarments are key - ensure you have a comfortable, well-fitting bra that doesn't show any lumps or bumps. Treat yourself to a manicure ahead of your session. Your nails will show in your photos while you hold your belly. Skip the bright polish and go with lighter, neutral colors.
This is a special moment in your life, and your photos should reflect that. Choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and don't be afraid to show off that gorgeous bump. If you only take one tip, keep it classy, not trendy, so your photos remain timeless. I can't wait to see how amazing you look on your special day!
xox
