When Should You Book Your Session?
You’re probably going to want to be between 28 and 36 weeks. You want that beautiful bump to be obvious (that’s the whole point, right?), but you also don’t want to be so uncomfortable that you’re counting down the minutes until you can sit down.
If you’re carrying twins, aim for a bit earlier – around 28-32 weeks.
What Should You Wear?
Clothing is a biggie because it can make or break your photos.
The Magic Formula for a Dress
You want something that’s fitted on top and then flows out from just above your belly. Floor-length is super flattering and gives you that romantic, flowy vibe. Think “goddess” not “tent.”
Colors That Actually Show Off Your Bump
Skip black or navy. I know they’re slimming, but they literally hide your bump in photos. That’s the opposite of what we’re going for here. Light to medium colors are your best friend. Think dusty rose, sage green, cream, soft blue – colors that let your beautiful belly shine.
Fabric Matters More Than You Think
Skip the super stretchy jersey material that shows every bra line and clings to your legs. Also, skip stiff cotton that wrinkles like crazy. Instead, look for flowy fabrics like gauze, rayon, or lace that move beautifully and photograph like a dream.
What About Your Partner?
Have them coordinate with you, but don’t match exactly. If you’re in a dusty blue dress, maybe they wear khaki pants with a white or cream shirt. You want to look like you belong together without looking like you’re wearing a couples Halloween costume.
Where to Shop
Check out boutiques like Free People, Baltic Born, or Pink Blush. If you’re looking to do something dramatic or special, consider renting from Nuuly or Rent the Runway.
Skip Clothes Altogether
Naked is timeless. If you had your maternity shot taken in 1988, you can just imagine what kind of overall/shoulder pad crazy-ass outfit you would have been wearing. The less clothing you’re wearing, the less dated it will look.
Posing Without Feeling Awkward
Look, we all feel weird in front of a camera. Here’s what actually works:
Just put your hands on your belly. Seriously, it’s the most natural thing in the world and it looks beautiful.
Move around. Don’t just stand there frozen. Sway, walk, run your hands through your hair, laugh with your partner. The best shots happen when you forget you’re being photographed.
Turn to the side at about 45 degrees. This is way more flattering than straight-on shots. Your photographer will help you find your best angle.
If you’re with your partner, get close. Touch, hold hands, snuggle. Those intimate moments make the most beautiful photos.
Where Should You Have Your Session?
Here are some popular options:
Outdoor adventures: Sunset beach sessions are gorgeous. Fields of wildflowers, mountain backdrops, or even urban settings with cool street art can be amazing.
Cozy at home: Snuggle on the couch, hang out in your nursery, or create a cozy bedroom scene.
Something totally unique: Milk baths with flower petals, underwater photography, or even a snowy winter wonderland if that’s your season.
Just keep in mind that you’re pregnant. Don’t pick a location that requires hiking uphill for a mile or doesn’t have a bathroom handy.
Special Considerations
Including your other kids? Keep expectations realistic. Kids are going to be kids and the candid moments of siblings being silly often turn out to be favorites.
What about your dog? Just choose a location where they can safely be off-leash or be prepared for some leash editing.
Hair and makeup? Only if it makes you feel amazing. If you’re going to feel overdone and uncomfortable, skip it. But if getting glammed up gives you confidence? Go for it.
Finding the Right Photographer
Spend time on their Instagram or website. Do their photos make you tear up or say “wow, I want that”? That’s your person.
Also, you’re going to be showing a lot of skin and being vulnerable. Make sure you vibe with them personality-wise. Check out their social media to get a sense of who they are. If their posts make you cringe, keep looking.
And pick someone who specializes in maternity photography. Someone who’s amazing at weddings might not know how to pose a pregnant belly.
The Most Important Thing to Remember
Think about what you’ll wear and where you’ll go, but more than anything, show up ready to celebrate this moment.
Your body is doing something amazing right now. Let’s capture that before your arms are too full of baby snuggles (and back poops) to remember what this felt like.
Related: Top 50 Maternity Photoshoot Ideas