Picking out your outfit for an indoor pregnancy photoshoot seems stressful for most moms-to-be.
You have options for days. But…
You tend to overthink it.
The perfect outfit not only ensures you’ll look your best. It actually makes the whole session come together. And that starts way before you step foot in the studio.
Let’s take a look at…
- Why your outfit matters more than you think
- Clothing options that always lead to better maternity photos
- Colors you should and shouldn’t wear
- A few accessory tips and tricks
- How to prepare on shoot day
Why your outfit matters more than you think
Here is what can go wrong.
The photographer you hire is talented enough to create beautiful lighting. The studio has beautiful backdrops available. But throw one wrong outfit into the mix and it ruins the session.
Whether you book your indoor maternity photoshoot at an established studio or a location of your choosing, wardrobe matters. Just as much as location scouting and editing, maternity photoshoot outfits impact the final images. Maternity sessions in Washington DC are known for being bold and editorial. As such, the outfits incorporated into those photoshoots take on that same mindset.
Supporting data proves this as well. 50% of expectant mothers are more invested in their wardrobe choices than ever before. That demand for stylish maternity clothing is translating into better photos overall.
Kinda crazy when you think about it, huh?
When you pick out the right outfit you set yourself (and the photographer) up for success. Your images turn out better. The photographer has more time to focus on details instead of worrying about your wardrobe. And you’re left with photos you’ll cherish forever.
Clothing options that always lead to better maternity photos
Here’s the best part.
You don’t need to own every article of maternity clothing under the sun. But you do need to wear the right ones. Below are top outfit styles that produce incredible results every single time they’re worn for indoor pregnancy photography:
Flowy dresses or gowns
FLOWY. DRESSES. Or fully-covering gowns are standard for almost every maternity session done indoors. They allow for beautiful movement when posing for photos and add an air of editorial to any portrait. Pick fabrics that flow easily, like chiffon, georgette, or tulle.
Crop tops and stretchy bodysuits
Pairing a stretch bodysuit with a flowy skirt is one of the best ways to photograph pregnant clients. Not only does this outfit style make your bump pop, but it keeps your overall look sleek and refined.
Wrap dresses
Wrap dresses are another incredible option for indoor maternity sessions. A personal favorite is the ASOS Curve Crochet Wrap Dress for wedding and maternity sessions. Wrap dresses are very forgiving during pregnancy and photograph amazingly well.
Sheer Pieces + Layers
Sheer pieces over lighter fabrics is another styling hack. Under soft, diffused studio lighting this look will elevate your indoor maternity session.
Whatever you wear, make sure you feel confident in it. If something is too tight, too loose, or not your style — don’t wear it! Outfit fit is everything.
Colors you should (and shouldn’t) wear
Color theory is seriously overlooked when it comes to maternity sessions.
Choose well and your photos will be timeless. They’ll have that edited, professional quality to them that will last a lifetime. Choose wrong and even the best photographer can’t fix it in editing.
Top recommended colors for indoor pregnancy sessions are:
- Soft neutrals — ivory, cream, warm white, blush pink
- Earthy tones — terracotta, caramel, warm brown/tan
- Deep jewel tones — emerald, sapphire, deep burgundy
- Always Black & White. Need I say more?
Colors to avoid wearing during your session:
- Brights or neon colors. These take away from your subject.
- Bold patterns or crazy prints. Save the fun shirt for after the session. During is all about you and your bump.
- Outfits that blend into the background. Sounds crazy, but always triple check with your photographer that you aren’t wearing the exact same color as the backdrop.
Bold colors and expressive prints make up a large majority of the maternity apparel industry. Estimated to reach $8.9 billion by 2034, expectant mothers are investing more into their wardrobes than before and it shows in their photos.
Get it right, and you’re going to enjoy spending more time looking at your maternity photos.
A few accessory tips and tricks
Accessories are tricky. One wrong piece can distract from your overall outfit.
Here’s a rule that always rings true. LESS. IS. ALWAYS. MORE.
One simple necklace. A pair of earrings. Boom. Done. Too many accessories and now the attention is being taken away from you.
Ok, ok. Here are some solid accessorizing tips:
- Minimal jewelry. Simple gold hoop earrings, a small necklace.
- Flower crowns! Adore them for indoor sessions.
- Leave your shoes off. Or bring some nice heels if that’s your jam.
Accessories to avoid:
- Large statement earrings or necklaces.
- Clothing with visible logos or branding.
- Sweatpants and sneakers. Again, save the cute sweater shirt for after the session.
Your hair and makeup are also another thing to consider when dressing for your session. Similar to your outfit, you want to keep everything simple. An effortless makeup look. Loose hair or an elegant updo.
When planning your maternity session outfit, ask yourself this question…
Will this keep the focus on me?
How to prepare on shoot day
As with most things…
Preparation is key.
Showing up to a photoshoot last-minute ready to get draped in satin will show in your photos. Here are a few things to remember the day of your session:
- Plan to bring at least 2-3 outfit changes. You’ll be glad you did.
- Hang and/or iron your clothing the day before. There’s nothing worse than crisp wrinkles showing up in photos.
- Don’t eat too much right before your session. You’ll be sitting around a lot and don’t want to feel uncomfortable.
- Drink WATER. It can’t be stressed enough. Drink water the day of your shoot and before you arrive. Hydrated skin will look AMAZING.
- Arrive early! Allow yourself time to get ready and you’ll feel even more confident when it’s time to start snapping photos.
One last tip:
BEING comfortable will make you more confident. And when you’re confident, you’ll feel amazing. Which will translate into photos you’ll love.
Wrap it all up
So there you have it.
Maternity session outfits that are simple, flattering, and will make your session much easier on you.
To recap, keep these tips in mind when planning your outfit(s):
- Flowy dresses/gowns + stretch bodysuits
- Keep colors soft and neutral. Or go full black or white.
- Limit your accessories. You’re the main attraction, not your earrings.
- Bring 2-3 outfit changes that you prepared the day before
- Wear something you’ll feel confident in.
If you keep these tips in mind when preparing for your indoor maternity session you allow your photographer to truly do what they do best.
Capture magical moments you’ll want to relive over and over again.
Pallavi Singal is the Vice President of Content at ztudium, where she leads innovative content strategies and oversees the development of high-impact editorial initiatives. With a strong background in digital media and a passion for storytelling, Pallavi plays a pivotal role in scaling the content operations for ztudium’s platforms, including Businessabc, Citiesabc, and IntelligentHQ, Wisdomia.ai, MStores, and many others. Her expertise spans content creation, SEO, and digital marketing, driving engagement and growth across multiple channels. Pallavi’s work is characterised by a keen insight into emerging trends in business, technologies like AI, blockchain, metaverse and others, and society, making her a trusted voice in the industry.
