If you’re planning a maternity session, one of the biggest questions you’ll probably ask is: What to wear to a maternity photo shoot? Choosing the right outfit can feel overwhelming, especially when your body is changing and you want photos that feel timeless, flattering, and true to you.
I’ve helped style (and personally experienced) countless maternity sessions, and here’s the truth: you don’t need a huge wardrobe or designer gown to look beautiful. The best maternity photos come from outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and radiant.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from flattering dress styles and color palettes to what partners and kids should wear — so you can walk into your maternity shoot feeling completely prepared.
Table of Contents
Why Your Maternity Outfit Matters
Maternity photos capture a once-in-a-lifetime season. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, pregnancy is fleeting — and what you wear helps tell the story.
The right outfit can:
- Highlight your baby bump beautifully
- Create timeless photos you’ll love for decades
- Make you feel confident during a vulnerable season
- Complement your setting and photographer’s style
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s authenticity. Choose outfits that feel like an elevated version of you.
The Most Flattering Maternity Photo Shoot Outfits
If you’re unsure where to start, these styles photograph beautifully every time.
1. Flowing Maxi Dresses
Flowy maxi dresses are the gold standard for maternity photos.
Why they work:
- Highlight the bump without clinging awkwardly
- Create movement in outdoor sessions
- Look dreamy in golden hour light
Look for:
- Empire waistlines
- Soft fabrics like chiffon or cotton
- Slightly fitted bodices with flowy skirts
This is especially perfect for beach, field, or sunset maternity sessions.
2. Form-Fitting Dresses
If you love showing off your bump, don’t be afraid of body-hugging styles.
These look stunning in:
- Studio maternity sessions
- Boudoir-style shoots
- Minimalist lifestyle photography
Great options include:
- Ribbed knit dresses
- Stretch jersey gowns
- Fitted midi dresses
The key is choosing fabrics that stretch smoothly without bunching.
3. Sheer or Lace Gowns
For a romantic, editorial look, sheer maternity gowns are incredibly popular — and for good reason.
They create:
- Soft, ethereal photos
- Elegant silhouettes
- Artistic images perfect for wall prints
Many photographers offer client closets with these gowns, or you can rent one online.
4. Casual Lifestyle Outfits
Not every maternity shoot needs a gown. If you want a cozy, authentic vibe, go casual.
Great combinations:
- Oversized sweater + leggings
- Fitted tank + maternity jeans
- Soft cardigan + lounge set
These are perfect for:
- In-home maternity sessions
- Studio lifestyle photography
- Family maternity shoots
Best Colors to Wear for Maternity Photos
Color choice plays a huge role in the final look of your photos.
Soft Neutrals (Always a Win)
Neutral tones photograph beautifully and never go out of style.
Top neutral picks:
- Cream
- Ivory
- Beige
- Soft gray
- Taupe
These create a light, airy feel and keep the focus on you and your bump.
Earthy Tones
Earth tones are ideal for outdoor maternity sessions.
Try:
- Rust
- Sage green
- Dusty blue
- Warm browns
- Terracotta
They complement nature without overpowering your photos.
Pastels for a Soft Look
If you love a feminine aesthetic, pastels are gorgeous.
Beautiful options:
- Blush pink
- Lavender
- Soft peach
- Baby blue
These work especially well for spring maternity shoots.
Colors to Avoid
While there are no strict rules, some colors can be tricky.
Avoid:
- Neon shades
- Large, busy patterns
- Bright logos or graphics
- Very dark black (unless going for dramatic styling)
These can distract from your bump and date your photos.
What to Wear for Different Maternity Photo Locations
Your location should guide your outfit choices.
Outdoor Field or Nature Sessions
- Flowing maxi dresses
- Earth tones or neutrals
- Barefoot or simple sandals
Movement looks beautiful in wind and open landscapes.
Beach Maternity Sessions
- Lightweight fabrics like chiffon
- Neutral or coastal tones
- Barefoot styling
Think breezy, effortless, and natural.
Studio Maternity Photos
- Fitted dresses
- Bodysuits and robes
- Minimalist styling
Studios allow for more dramatic or editorial looks.
In-Home Lifestyle Sessions
- Cozy knits
- Soft lounge sets
- Neutral palettes
The goal here is comfort and authenticity.
What to Wear If Your Partner Is in the Photos
Coordinating outfits doesn’t mean matching exactly.
For partners:
- Neutral button-down shirts
- Henleys or sweaters
- Dark jeans or chinos
Avoid:
- Bold patterns
- Bright logos
- Clashing colors
The goal is to complement, not compete.
What to Wear for Family Maternity Photos
If older siblings are joining, keep styling simple and cohesive.
Tips for kids:
- Stick to the same color palette
- Choose soft, comfortable fabrics
- Avoid character clothing or loud prints
Flowy dresses for daughters and neutral basics for sons photograph beautifully.
Should You Wear More Than One Outfit?
If your session allows time, outfit changes are worth it.
A popular combo:
- One elegant dress
- One casual outfit
This gives you variety while keeping the session manageable.
If you’re unsure, ask your photographer — they’ll know what works best for their shooting style.
Accessories and Props That Elevate Maternity Photos
Small details can make a big impact.
Consider adding:
- Delicate jewelry
- Flower crowns
- Wide-brim hats
- Ultrasound photos
- Baby shoes
Just remember: less is more. You want the focus to stay on you.
Shoes: What Works Best?
Shoes often get overlooked, but they matter.
Best options:
- Barefoot (great for beach or lifestyle shoots)
- Neutral flats or sandals
- Simple ankle boots
Avoid bulky sneakers or loud colors unless they match the vibe intentionally.
Where to Find Maternity Photo Shoot Outfits
You don’t need to spend a fortune to look amazing.
Try:
- Amazon maternity dresses
- Baltic Born (popular with photographers)
- PinkBlush Maternity
- Etsy handmade gowns
- Photographer client closets
- Dress rental sites Nuuly and Rent the Runway
Renting is especially great if you want a high-end look without the commitment.
How to Choose an Outfit That Flatters Your Body
Every pregnancy body is different, and that’s beautiful.
Here’s how to choose what works best for you:
If you feel self-conscious about arms:
- Choose long sleeves or lace overlays
If you want more shape:
- Go with empire waist dresses
If you love your bump:
- Try fitted styles
The most flattering outfit is always the one that makes you feel confident.
What to Wear for Maternity Boudoir Photos
If you’re doing a maternity boudoir session, styling shifts slightly.
Popular choices:
- Sheer robes
- Lace bodysuits
- Oversized button-down shirts
- Draped fabrics
These sessions celebrate strength and femininity — wear what makes you feel powerful.
Common Maternity Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
To make the most of your session, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Waiting too long to try on outfits
- Choosing something uncomfortable
- Wearing non-maternity dresses that pull awkwardly
- Over-accessorizing
- Ignoring weather or location
Planning ahead makes a huge difference.
When to Try On Your Maternity Shoot Outfit
Always try your outfit on at least:
- 1–2 weeks before your session
- Again the day before
- Make sure you have a backup ready in case your baby bump outgrew your first outfit choice!
Your body changes quickly during pregnancy, so a final fit check is key.
Confidence Is the Most Important Thing You Can Wear
At the end of the day, the most important thing to remember when deciding what to wear to a maternity photo shoot is this: confidence matters more than any dress.
Your body is doing something extraordinary. These photos aren’t about perfection — they’re about preserving a moment in your motherhood story.
Choose something that makes you feel:
- Beautiful
- Comfortable
- Like yourself
Because years from now, when you look back at these photos, you won’t remember whether your dress was trendy. You’ll remember how it felt to carry your baby.
And that’s what truly makes maternity photos unforgettable.
