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Suppose you’re pregnant and looking into getting a maternity photoshoot done. In that case, this is your complete maternity dress for photoshoots guide, including what to wear, when to shoot maternity photoshoots, how to pose, and more. Whether you’re looking for a boho or chiffon maternity dress, I have you covered! Congratulations, mama! Look no further for your maternity photoshoot inspiration.
This post was updated on 6/5/24.
Shop Maternity Dresses for Photoshoot
How to Pose for Maternity Photos
Here are some tips on posing for maternity photos:
- ALWAYS have at least one hand on the bump at all times.
- A great look is to have one hand on top and one hand on the bottom to showcase the bump in all its glory!
- Create space between the arms and the belly. You can do this by lifting your elbows slightly so there is space between your upper arm and your side, making your arms look slimmer.
- Stand with your feet together for the lower body. Then, pop the front leg to bend the knee closest to the camera.
These poses work great for solo shots. If you’re DIY your maternity photos, grab a friend or tripod and take a few maternity photos like this, some landscape, vertical, full-body, and close-up pictures.
If you have a partner, have them join behind you and put one hand on the bump (above or below). Then, take a few with your partner on the other side.
When is the Best Time To Take Maternity Photos?
The recommended time to take pregnancy photos is between weeks 28-34. For most women, the bump is in full effect at this point, and it’s before many pregnant women are too swollen and constantly uncomfortable at nine months.
For twins, a little earlier works well for the same reasons. I advise looking for and booking a photographer around 20-25 weeks. You can also consider DIY with a friend or tripod. Also, start searching and order dresses.
How to Find a Maternity Photographer
Search Instagram hashtags for your city and maternity photography. For example, I searched for #dallasmaternity in Dallas in accounts and hashtags. Look through and find a handful of photographers whose style you like, paying attention to how the photographer edits and poses her mom-to-be.
Once you narrow it down to a few you want, reach out for rates and availability. Some photographers have dresses you can borrow for the session – a great bonus!
How to Choose Maternity Dresses for Photoshoots
The best maternity outfit is a long maxi dress that showcases your beautiful pregnant silhouette. Purchase a timeless dress, but also show your style. If you plan on printing the photos and displaying them in your home, think about what colors are in that room and consider a complimentary color for your dress.
Flutter sleeves and off-shoulder styles are very flattering on a mom-to-be. Do you want a full glam gown maternity gown or a more boho maternity dress? After extensive research during my pregnancy, here are the best places to find pregnancy dresses.
Best Places to Shop for Photoshoot Maternity Dresses
Free People
Free People – for the boho-spirited mama-to-be looking for a flowy maternity dress. This maxi dress comes in multiple colors. I should mention that it is also an excellent choice for summer photos on the beach! Many Free People dresses aren’t labeled maternity. Still, they are very stretchy and flowy, which means they are great to wear again postpartum!
Pink Blush Maternity
Pink Blush Maternity – For affordable, simple, and timeless options. Check out the pink blush maternity photoshoot section, which includes their extended dress options. I wore this long-sleeved, white dress that fit the occasion well. It’s double-lined, so it’s not see-through! This long-sleeved maternity dress is super flattering for maternity pictures. If you need a new strapless bra, I recommend this one.
Bonus tip: Pink Blush is also great for comfy everyday maternity clothes, like t-shirt dresses and easter maternity dresses, and there is usually access to deals with a discount code.
Baltic Born
Baltic Born – For unique boho maternity dresses or a romantic, casual look, check out Baltic Born. This mauve dress (pictured below) has cute details and comes in sizes XS to XXXL. Check out the bump-friendly section of their site for tons of options! They also indicate in the notes if the dress is nursing-friendly for postpartum moms.
Red Dress Boutique
Red Dress Boutique has countless maternity flowy dresses – great for your baby shower dress, too! They have many floral maxi dresses that are gorgeous and bump-friendly.
Etsy
Etsy is a great place to start if you are looking for a lace or chiffon maternity dress. For the glamorous mom who wants a custom, enchanting maternity gown in a specific color. A popular shop is Anyuta Couture Maternity. I swoon for their fitted mermaid gown in pink or blue.
Anyuta couture reviews are very positive, and this dress comes in sizes XXS to XL – XXL.
Amazon
If you need a maternity dress in a time crunch, turn to Amazon. They have many cute and on-trend looks available for less. Your maternity gown may only get worn a few times, so saving a little with the baby coming doesn’t hurt! This sleeve sweetheart off-the-shoulder gown has tons of great reviews for under $40!
Looking for more options for dads and kids? Check out this blog post on long, flowy dresses for photoshoots.
How to do Hair, Makeup, and Accessories to Compliment a Maternity Dress
What maternity photoshoot guide would be complete without hair and makeup tips?
- Hair and makeup should match the vibe of the dresses you picked. Consider a more dramatic makeup look if you wear a glamorous gown with a long train. Keep your hair in soft curls and makeup more natural if going with a softer, boho dress.
- Bonus tip: nails should be manicured in a light, neutral color. Remember, we are going for timeless. A little self-pampering is well deserved.
- Popular accessories include a flower crown or wide brim hat. Maternity photos with flowers are also popular, especially with colorful flowers.
- For your partner’s outfit, have them dressed based on what you’re wearing. They should compliment you in style and color but not take the focus away from you. For men, jeans with pockets work well, like these khakis or dark-colored jeans and a solid neutral henley (avoid logos, hats, loud patterns, and sneakers).
Enjoy the Pictures!
The last step is to enjoy your pictures! You may look different with the baby bump than usual, but embrace that you are a pregnant goddess bringing new life into this world, no matter what. You are glowing, after all!
Maternity Photoshoot Guide
Thank you for reading this guide on all things maternity photoshoots. Don’t forget to subscribe to the mailing list for monthly newsletters & a free food guide. You may also enjoy reading:
- The Best Dresses for Photoshoot
- Good Quality Maternity Leggings For Every Mom-to-Be
- The 5 Best Postpartum Leggings
- The 5 Best Postpartum Jeans for Mom Pooch
If you’re in Indiana and looking for an Indianapolis maternity photographer, check out my small business!
Till next time,
