When it comes to pictures, especially maternity ones, you just want everything to feel right. Your body is changing and you just want to feel confident and beautiful in every picture.

Top tip: You need to understand that what looks good in person doesn’t always look the best on camera. Remember to try on your outfits and make sure they match the environment where you’ll be taking pictures. Most importantly, do a quick check with the camera a day before the photoshoot—and you’re good to go!

Choosing the right outfits for your maternity photo shoot is key to making your photos look stunning and memorable. A skilled maternity photographer in Philadelphia can help you choose the best maternity dresses and stylish outfits for your pregnancy photo session.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best maternity photoshoot dresses, stylish maternity photoshoot outfits, and more, to help you prepare for your pregnancy photo session. Let’s get started!

Why Choosing the Right Maternity Outfit is Important

When you’re expecting, you want to feel beautiful, confident, and comfortable in your maternity photos. The maternity dress for the photoshoot you choose will set the tone for your session and ensure your photos capture the magic of this special time. Whether you want to go for an elegant look with a maternity gown for a photoshoot or a more relaxed vibe with casual maternity photo outfits, the options are endless.

What to Wear When You’re Feeling Puffy?

For some women, pregnancy can be a time when they feel a little insecure or start to doubt their beauty. Just know—it’s okay, and it’s totally natural. One tip I’d love to share: if you’re dealing with swollen ankles (yup, been there), go for a long dress! It’s comfy, stylish, and does a great job of covering up anything you’re not feeling confident about.

Puffy face 

Let’s be real—pregnancy can come with some puffiness, especially around the face, and that’s totally normal! If you’re feeling a bit rounder than usual, there are still plenty of outfit tricks to help you feel sleek and confident in front of the camera. V-necklines are amazing for elongating your neck and drawing attention downward, which helps balance out a fuller face. 

Darker colors and solid tones also do wonders for a slimming effect. If you’re going with a flowy dress, make sure it has some shape—like an empire waist—to highlight the smallest part of your torso. Structured fabrics or layering with a light cardigan or shawl can also add definition. Trust me, it’s all about balance and comfort!

Flowy dresses

Flowy dresses are a top pick for a reason. They’re comfy, dreamy, and super flattering on that adorable bump. A soft, flowy maternity gown for a photoshoot catches the wind and adds a magical feel to your photos.

Go for materials like chiffon, lace, or tulle. If you’re doing an outdoor maternity photoshoot, imagine a breeze blowing through your gown—it’s pure photo magic.

Why Choose a Flowy Dress?

• It highlights your baby bump without feeling too tight.
• It gives your photos a soft and dreamy vibe.
• It’s easy to move around in, making your photos more 

Match It With the Season

Your outfit should also match the season. If it’s hot outside, you’ll want something light and breathable like a cotton dress. If it’s cooler, a thicker, more covered maternity gown for a photoshoot would be perfect. The season can also affect the colors you choose. Lighter colors work well for summer, while richer, darker tones are great for fall or winter.

What Colors Should You Wear?

Seasonal Outfit Ideas:

Summer: Go for a light, airy maternity dress for a photoshoot in soft pastel colors.

Ideal colors:

• Blush pink
• Baby blue
• Lavender
• Soft mint
• Light peach

Fall/Winter: Consider a long-sleeve maternity photoshoot dress in warm colors.

Pretty colors for fall:

• Burgundy
• Mustard yellow
• Olive green
• Burnt orange
• Deep plum

Spring: Floral prints or light fabrics work well in this season.

Pretty spring colors:

• Lilac
• Sage green
• Sky blue
• Peach
• Butter yellow

Pro Tip: If your partner will be in the photos, coordinate your colors so that you both look great together.

Match It With the Environment

Where you’re having your pregnancy photo session makes a huge difference in your outfit choice. If you’re taking pictures outdoors, the background will affect how your outfit looks. A sunny outdoor shoot might call for a light, flowy dress, while a nighttime shoot could be the perfect opportunity to wear something more elegant and dark.

Day vs Night Outfit Ideas:

Daytime Shoot: Soft, pastel maternity dresses for photoshoots are perfect for sunny outdoor settings.

Nighttime Shoot: Darker maternity photoshoot dress with elegant details like sparkles or metallics will look great under the lights.

Remember, your outfit should always match the vibe of the environment you’re in.

Bodysuits Can Be Beautiful Too

If you want something a little different, a bodysuit can also be a great choice. A bodysuit fits close to your body and highlights your bump in a sleek, modern way. You can pair it with skirts, pants, or even a long, flowing skirt for a more dramatic look. Bodysuits work well if you want a simple, chic style.

Why Choose a Bodysuit?

• It’s sleek and highlights your baby bump.
• Perfect for a minimal, modern look.
• Great for photos that focus on your bump.

Go bare!

If you’re feeling bold and confident, going for a more artistic look without clothes can create stunning photos. This doesn’t mean you need to be fully naked—using sheer fabrics to cover just the right amount can make for beautiful, intimate shots. You can always have a prop like a blanket or shawl to keep it tasteful.

Why Go Bare?

• It focuses entirely on your beautiful baby bump.
• It creates a soft, intimate vibe in your photos.
• It’s a great way to celebrate your pregnancy in a unique way.

Add Accessories 

Accessories can make a huge difference in your maternity photo shoot outfits. A cute flower crown, a statement necklace, or a scarf can add personality to your look. If you’re going for a boho vibe, try adding a chunky bracelet or a leather belt. Accessories can bring your whole look together, making it feel more complete.

Accessory Ideas:

• Flower crowns for a boho, dreamy look.
• Simple jewelry for an elegant, polished vibe.
• Scarves or shawls for added warmth and style.

Do Patterns Work Well for a Maternity Photoshoot?

Adding patterns to your maternity photoshoot dress can make your photos more exciting. You can go with floral prints, stripes, or polka dots. Just make sure the pattern isn’t too busy and takes away from the beauty of your bump. A nice, subtle pattern can create a lovely touch.

Pattern Ideas:

• Floral patterns for a soft, romantic look.
• Stripes or dots for a fun, modern style.
• Subtle lace patterns for texture and elegance.

More Outfit Ideas You’ll Love

If you’re still building your wardrobe, here are a few extra maternity photoshoot outfits and tips that I swear by:

Fitted Gowns: These hug your bump and show off those curves! Perfect for indoor studio sessions or more glamorous vibes.

Casual Vibes: Think jeans and a white button-up tied at the waist, or a simple maxi dress with a denim jacket. These casual maternity photo outfits are cute, comfy, and feel very “you.”

Matching with Your Partner: If your partner’s joining, coordinate your outfits! You don’t have to match exactly—just stick to the same color palette. Trust me, it looks so good on camera.

Texture Play: Add interest to your look with textures like lace, velvet, knits, or layers.

No matter what you choose for your maternity photoshoot outfits, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident. Whether you go with a maternity gown for a photoshoot, a stylish maternity photoshoot outfit, or something more casual, make sure it reflects your personality and the excitement you feel about becoming a mom. Your photos will be beautiful because they capture the real you. Enjoy every moment of your pregnancy photo session!

If you’re looking for guidance, working with professional maternity photographers in Philadelphia can help ensure your outfits and poses are on point for the perfect photoshoot. 

I hope these maternity photo shoot clothing ideas and tips gave you some inspiration. 

FAQs

What is the best outfit for a maternity photoshoot?

A flowy dress or fitted gown that highlights your bump and feels comfy.

Should I wear a dress or casual clothes for my maternity pictures?

Either! Dresses are elegant, but casual outfits like jeans and a cute top also look great.

What colors are best for a maternity photo shoot?

Soft neutrals, pastels, or rich seasonal colors like burgundy or sage.

How can I style my maternity photoshoot outfit for different seasons?

Use light fabrics and pastels for summer, warm tones and layers for fall/winter, and florals for spring.

Are there specific fabrics that work best for maternity photography?

Yes—chiffon, jersey, cotton blends, and lace all photograph beautifully.

Should I wear tight or flowy dresses for maternity pictures?

Both work! Tight for a bold bump look, flowy for a soft, dreamy vibe.