Maternity Photoshoot Guide: What to wear, when to shoot, & how to pose

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Congratulations, mama! If you’re pregnant and looking into getting photographs taken, this is your complete maternity photoshoot guide, including what to wear, when to shoot, how to pose, and more. Let’s dive in!

Best Time to Take Maternity Photos:

The recommended time to take pregnancy photos is between weeks 30-35. For most women, the bump is in full effect at this point, and it’s before you are too swollen and uncomfortable in month 9. For twins, 28-30 weeks works well for the same reasons. I advise starting to look for and booking a photographer around 20-25 weeks. Also, start searching and order dresses. 

How to find a Maternity Photographer:

Search Instagram hashtags for your city and maternity photography. For example, in Dallas, I searched for “dallasmaternity” 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 moms-to-be. Once you narrow it down to a few you want, reach out for rates and availability. Some maternity photographers will have a client closet – basically dresses they own that you can wear for the photoshoot – which is a great bonus! 

Best Places to Look for Maternity Dresses:

Long maxi dresses will best showcase the bump and your silhouette. Consider timeless, but also show your style. Do you want a full glam gown or a more boho romantic look? After my extensive research to look for my own dresses, here are a few of the best places to find maternity dresses for photoshoots: 

1. Pink Blush Maternity – For very affordable, simple, and timeless options. Check out their maternity photoshoot section, which includes their extended dress options. I wore this white dress by them and was delighted with the outcome! If you need a strapless bra, I highly recommend this one.
2. Baltic Born – For the boho mom looking for a romantic, flowy look. This mauve dress (pictured below) is from there. I love their boho styles because they will also work post-pregnancy. Check out the bump-friendly section of their website for tons of options! 
3. Amazon – For very affordable options, especially on gowns, turn to amazon. They have many top looks available for less. Your maternity gown may only get worn a few times, so saving a little with baby coming doesn’t hurt! This off shoulder gown has tons of great reviews for under $40!
4. Anyuta Couture Maternity – For the glamorous mom who wants a custom, enchanting gown in a specific color. I swoon for their fitted mermaid gown in pink! 

How to do Hair, Makeup, and Accessories for Maternity Photos:

What maternity photoshoot guide would be complete without hair and makeup tips?

• Hair and makeup should match the vibe of the dresses you picked. If you plan on wearing a very glamourous gown with a long train, consider a more dramatic makeup look. If going with a softer, more boho dress, keep your hair and makeup more natural. 
• Popular accessories include a flower crown or hat.
• For your partner, have them play off what you’re wearing. They should compliment you in style and color but not take the focus away from you. When in doubt, neutrals work very well. 

How to Pose for Maternity Photos:

The biggest tip for posing for pregnancy photos is to 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! Then, 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; this will make your arms look slimmer. 

Also, have the photographer take photos of just you and your future child, without your partner. It’s a magical time where you are growing a human! A classic shot of you, looking down towards the baby, will be cherished for years to come. 

Finally, enjoy the pictures! 

The last step, enjoy your pictures! You may look different now than you usually do, but embrace the fact that you are bringing new life into this world. You are glowing after all! 

Thank you for reading the complete maternity photoshoot guide: what to wear, when to shoot, how to pose, and more! You may also enjoy reading more in the pregnancy section of the blog. Don’t forget to subscribe to the mailing list for monthly newsletters & a free food guide.