Tips on How To Dress For Your Maternity Photo Session

With countless options on what to wear for your maternity session, I wanted to share my favorite styles. But, the most important consideration is that you love how you look! If your style is traditional, let’s work with that. Do you love the boho feel? We can find an ensemble that will make you glow. Your maternity photos will be a celebrated addition to your family’s archive, so take the time to find an outfit that makes you feel beautiful. When looking for maternity photoshoot clothes ideas, consider the following tips.

Maxi-Dresses are Photogenic and Flattering

I always think a maxi-dress is the best way to go. The beauty of a maternity maxi-dress is that the flowing fabric becomes part of the story. I love the motion a long skirt offers, as we walk through the scenery. Whatever your style, you can find a long dress that makes you feel your best and flatters your silhouette. Check out this New Orleans boutique to look for those photo shoot perfect maxi dresses that might work for maternity and beyond- www.peony.nola.com

Keep the Maternity Clothing Timeless

You want these pregnancy portraits to stand the test of time so try to stay away from looks that are too trendy. Simple hair, make-up and jewelry will make you look elegant, natural and classic. Think about photos you’ve loved from the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s: they highlight simple beauty. Let your bump be the star for capturing and remembering this beautiful moment in time. When looking for the best maternity dress for the photoshoot, think classic lines, long sleeves, plunging necklines and flowing fabric. And lucky for us, maternity clothing has come a long way. The choices in colors and fabrics are endless, so have fun shopping and make sure you love how you feel. You can easily wear it in post-partum as well. Check out Mod Cloth online, although they don’t technically have a maternity section, if you search “maternity clothes” they have some cute retro suggestions! www.modcloth.com

Consider Textured Clothing

A wonderful way to add dimension to maternity photos is adding texture to your outfit. This may be lace detail around the neck line, on sleeves etc. Knitwear can feel cozy and unique as well. Either way, textured clothing will create more interesting and striking photos without being overwhelming. Another tip is to avoid cheap, super stretchy fabric. You may think it will be good, and there are tons of maternity dresses made from this, but it’s a mistake. It shows every little bump, 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. Gauze or crepe fabrics are perfect and widely available. 

Avoid Large and Distracting Colors and Patterns

When having your maternity photos taken, I want the focus to be on your shape and expression. Large patterns, stripes and loud colors can be a bit distracting. When choosing a color, consider the environment you are having the portraits taken in. I realize there are many maternity maxi dresses out there with big floral patterns. However, when photographing at different angles and converting images into black and white, they may not translate well. If the perfect dress has a print, make sure it’s bold but simple in color and shape.

Casual Maternity Photo Outfits

Even with all my talk of maxi dresses, I do agree that jeans and a sculptured top can look adorable. When considering casual maternity photo outfits, take your environment into consideration.  Is your style rustic and outdoorsy? Do you just never wear a dress? Then, this is a great way to. If you are a jeans kind of gal, putting on cute boots and a fun blouse will look fresh and modern. Or if you are interested in doing a morning session in your home with kids jumping on the bed take a look at these organic comfy outfits at Pact

What to Wear for Maternity Photos Outside

If your maternity photoshoot is scheduled in a cooler time of year, a beautiful wrap is a great choice over your outfit. This is even the case on most breezy nights at the beach. You can still wear your favorite long dress, but keep warm with warm leggings, a camisole and lovely pashmina or wool wrap. You can even grab a cute tassel blanket and cuddle up with your honey in the crisp air. 

If you are having a maternity photoshoot in winter, faux fur and knit hats can make the experience special. And velvet! Velvet dresses are so luxe and rich. I always advise my maternity clients to bring large coats to throw on in between shots, as well. There is always a little downtime between images to throw on your big bulky winter coat and warm up. I am also going to keep you moving and walking. Luckily you run a little warm being pregnant so we should have a great time.

If you have photos taken on a hot summer day, consider breathable, light fabric. We will be walking and moving so natural fibers like cotton will perform beautifully. 

And if you just want that one special dress for photos, take a look at renting your outfit. There are so many fun online services to rent such as Nully, Armoire, and Rent the Runway

 

Choosing Maternity Outfits with a Partner and Children

I always include Mom’s partner and children in my maternity photo sessions.  A pregnancy photo gallery is complete with tender moments between family members. Whether you are walking hand in hand, cuddling or laughing, relationships and connection make photographs so emotional. When choosing outfits, always pick your outfit first and theirs second to compliment your look. Neutral solid colors are the best choice. However, adding a pop of color with accessories is a great way to tie everyone in the photo together. It’s great to coordinate but not match. If your colors are the same, you will blend into each other and it will be hard to see the separation. The same goes for anyone in your family, we don’t want anyone blending. 

Consider Your Photo Session Location and then Wardrobe Colors

Choose your outfits based on the season and location. If the photos are taken in the golden tall grasses, stay in pale neutrals. Softer colors look amazing in spring/summer. Consider wearing white/ivory, blush pink, light blues and lavenders in these locations. Winter or forest photos, like redwoods, allow for gemstones like garnet, emeralds and deep yellows. Please don’t wear black or navy or any other super dark color as it hides the bump and makes it hard to see. Considering your environment before your wardrobe will create a cohesive feel and make you love the photos. Some of the best locations for maternity photos in New Orleans range from urban to park settings including City Park, Audubon Park and the French Quarter.

What to Wear Under Your Dress for Maternity Photos

Choosing good shapewear creates that smooth silhouette we all want. Avoid panty and bra lines with shaping camisoles and shorts. Make sure to try on your bra to make sure the straps and fabric are well hidden and make you feel comfortable.  a Depending on the dress you choose to wear and also your comfortability level, you may want to consider some shapewear for underneath your dress. And don’t forget about the color of your undergarments. Wear colors that won’t show through your dress. And if you really want to show off your gorgeous baby bump, have that pretty bra and panties ready.

Hopefully you have a better idea now of what to wear for your maternity photo session, but remember that I am always here to help! When you book a session with me, I’m always here to help you plan for the perfect location and help with styling. Congrats on your pregnancy!

My goal when photographing families is to create timeless, emotive, and joyous images. I love incorporating our beautiful New Orleans scenery and golden sunsets to help capture authentic moments.  Sessions take place an hour or so before sunset for the most beautiful light. If you are interested in more information on maternity, newborn or family photography click here!  Or email me directly at mail@twirlphotography.com. Please allow 48 hours for me to respond.  I can’t wait to connect!