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If you’re pregnant and looking into getting photographs taken, this is your complete maternity dresses for photo shoot guide, including what to wear, when to shoot, how to pose, and more. Congratulations, mama! 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 nine. 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. 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, 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 for Photo Shoot:
Long maxi dresses will best showcase the bump and your silhouette. Consider timeless, 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. 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 my extensive research to look for my own dresses, here are a few of the best places to find maternity photoshoot dresses:
- 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!
- Anyuta Couture Maternity – For the glamorous mom who wants a custom, enchanting maternity gown in a specific color. I swoon for their fitted mermaid gown in pink!
- Red Dress Boutique – countless cute bump-friendly styles – great for your maternity baby shower dress too! This floral maxi dress is gorgeous and bump friendly.
- Pink Blush Maternity – For affordable, simple, and timeless options. Check out their maternity photoshoot section, which includes their extended dress options. I wore this long sleeve, white dress by them and was delighted with the outcome! If you need a strapless bra, I highly recommend this one.
- Free People – for the boho free spirited mama-to-be. This maxi dress comes in multiple colors and a popular dress for maternity photos.
- Amazon – For affordable and quick shipping 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 sleeve sweetheart 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 photoshoot, which includes recommended shops for dads and kids.
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.
- Nails should be manicured in a light, neutral color. Remember, we are going for timeless.
- Popular accessories include a flower crown or wide brim 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. For men, khakis or dark colored jeans and a solid neutral henley work very well (avoid logos and hats).
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.
Stand slightly away from the camera with your feet together for the lower body. Then pop the front leg to bend the knee closest to the camera. This pose works 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.
Also, have a friend or 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 with the baby bump 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 this guide to maternity dresses for photo shoot: what to wear, when to shoot, how to pose, and more! You may also enjoy reading the best gifts for expectant mothers, the baby gift guide for 0-24 months, or check out my nursery for baby boy. Don’t forget to subscribe to the mailing list for monthly newsletters & a free food guide.
Till next time,
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