For maternity photo sessions, it is recommended to be photographed in 1 to 2 different outfits so I've put together some information to help you out and spark inspiration! Each outfit change takes some time, so keep in mind the time you spend changing outfits takes away from the time we have shooting, or even bridging a jacket or scarf can change the look.
Your vibe
Pick clothes that you and your partner are comfortable in and feel good is the key, flatter your shape, and wear something that fits and you feel confident in. Choosing one outfit that is slightly more formal or “dressed up” than your normal daily wear. Think attire for attending a baby shower. Then, one outfit that’s reflective or your typical wear if you’d be going on a date night somewhere more casual. In the summer months, dresses and light color/material clothes are always a hit and in the cooler months, close toes shoes, jeans, sleeves, and layers and some patterns would look good as well. Maxi dress is a good option to wear for maternity shoots; it’s comfortable, and it’s incredibly flattering. A maxi dress is also a very dramatic piece of clothing to wear for a photo shoot. the flowing fabric looks amazing in the wind and creates a lot of movement in a still photo.
Your colors
The color of the clothing is probably the most important piece in determining the overall “feel” of the photos. Light colors and neutrals will lend to a more bright + airy feel, whereas darker colors will give you slightly moodier photos. If in doubt, white is always a timeless, flattering choice that matches everything.
Not everyone has to be matchy! You and your partner just have to flow together. It’s okay for you both to wear solids, but I would stay away from both wearing bold patterns. Prints are okay if you do them correctly, just try to avoid large logo prints, and don't let logos and TV characters distract from your personality.
An easy way to pair the items is to select the patterned item first, and then select a solid-colored item from one of the colors in the pattern. If your patterned dress has shades of blue, white, or pink; have your partner wear one of those colors in a solid form. Men’s dress shirts sometimes have very subtle patterns; in those cases, you can get by both wearing patterns.
Accessories
Don't forget the little things that could throw off your outfits, and you will be surprised but most of the time it's shoes that can make or break the outfit. I'm not saying go out and buy some fancy-dress shoes but having simple shoes that reflect the vibe you're going for a bit more can really help pull it all together.
A great way to accentuate a baby bump is to wear a belt. You’ll want to place the belt just below your bosom right where the top of your belly starts. It will pull in any loose clothing and creates a waistline that defines your belly. A belt looks great with any shirt or dress whether its’s flowy or form-fitting. It’s also a great way to bring in a cute accessory without thinking too much about it or being too overpowering in the photo.
Let's talk Hats! In general, hats could look very nice in the photos when coordinated with the outfit, but there is one category of hats - baseball hat - that could block the eyes partially in the photos and will not be an image you may want to print, so personal recommendation would be to stay away from baseball hats unless its a signature look.
Accessories can also add a fun variation to your photos and demonstrate your personalities! Examples: Little baby shoes, onesies, or baby ultrasound pictures.
Hope this helped you with your styling ideas.
