Finding the right maternity dress for your photoshoot can feel overwhelming, especially when your body is changing and nothing seems to fit the way it used to. Many expecting moms feel unsure about what will look flattering, what photographs well, or what will feel comfortable during a session. The good news is that choosing the perfect maternity dress does not have to be stressful. With a few simple tips and the right support, you can feel confident, comfortable, and absolutely beautiful during your photoshoot.
As a maternity photographer and a mom myself, I help guide expecting mothers through the entire styling process so they never have to figure it out alone.
Why the Right Maternity Dress Matters
Your maternity photos are a celebration of everything your body is doing and the baby you are preparing to welcome. The dress you choose can make a huge difference in how confident you feel and how well your photos turn out.
A great maternity dress should:
• Flatter your bump
• Feel comfortable
• Allow you to move naturally
• Photographs beautifully
• Match the mood or location of your session
Many moms worry about clingy fabric, unflattering cuts, or dresses that feel too revealing. This is why I offer guidance, outfit suggestions, and access to my client wardrobe so you never have to stress about choosing the wrong thing.
Soft, Neutral Tones Always Photograph Beautifully
One of the biggest pain points for moms is wondering which colors will look best. Soft, neutral shades are always a safe and beautiful choice for maternity photos. Think creams, whites, beiges, soft browns, muted pastels, or gentle earth tones.
Neutral colors help keep the focus on you and your bump rather than the outfit itself. They also pair beautifully with partners and siblings, making coordinating outfits much easier.
Comfort Should Come First
By the third trimester, comfort is everything. Tight dresses, itchy fabrics, or stiff materials can turn your photoshoot into something unpleasant, which is the last thing you need.
Instead, look for maternity dresses made with:
• Stretchy, breathable fabric
• Soft cotton or ribbed knit
• Flowy, lightweight material
• A high or empire waist
• Plenty of bump room
You should be able to sit, walk, and pose comfortably without the dress feeling restrictive.
Consider the Style of the Session
The perfect maternity dress for your photoshoot also depends on the vibe you want.
Studio Sessions
Simple, fitted dresses or soft, minimal pieces photograph beautifully. Neutral tones in ribbed or knit fabrics create a clean, timeless look. With the privacy of the studio, some moms choose to show off their belly with jeans and a cute bra, tank or open shirt.
Outdoor Sessions
Flowy dresses with movement look stunning in open fields, parks, or beach areas. Soft fabrics that catch the breeze add a dreamy, romantic feel.
At Home Sessions
Cozy sweaters, neutral lounge dresses, or soft robes can feel intimate and real.
Not sure what fits your vision? I help you select pieces that coordinate perfectly with your location, lighting, and overall style.
When in Doubt, Try Multiple Options
At your session, we can try a couple of outfits to see what you feel most confident in. Sometimes what feels comfortable may surprise you with how beautifully it photographs.
If you are using my client wardrobe, I bring multiple dresses to you before your session so you have choices and never feel locked into one look. This way you can also plan the other outfits ahead around what you are going to wear.
Fit Is More Important Than Size
Pregnancy sizing can be confusing, and many moms feel frustrated when shopping for maternity clothing. None of that matters during your photoshoot.
What matters is how the dress fits:
• Does it flatter your bump?
• Does it feel comfortable on your body?
• Does it flow or stretch in ways that support your poses?
• Does it help you feel confident?
Your comfort and confidence always matter more than the size on a label.
My Client Wardrobe Makes Choosing Easy
For many expecting moms, the hardest part of preparing for maternity photos is feeling unsure about what to wear. To solve that pain point, I offer a curated client wardrobe filled with maternity dresses that photograph beautifully.
You can choose from:
• Flowy boho pieces
• Minimal fitted dresses
• Soft knit neutrals
• Simple classics
• Earthy or muted-toned gowns
I help you try on options beforehand or bring a changing tent to the session for easy outfit changes.
You never have to shop, guess, or stress.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Feel Beautiful
Choosing the right maternity dress for your photoshoot is really about choosing something that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Pregnancy can be uncomfortable, emotional, and unpredictable, but your photoshoot should be a moment where you feel celebrated, supported, and confident.
With guidance, wardrobe options, and a photographer who understands what expecting moms truly need, your dress will not just look beautiful in photos. It will help you feel beautiful too.
Check out my client closet and all the gorgeous maternity dress choices!
Find out more about maternity photography here:
A Baltimore Maternity Photographer Guide to a Maternity session
