Maternity photos are such a beautiful way to celebrate this short but magical season of your life. Your body is doing something incredible and capturing it in a way that feels special will give you memories to look back on, and appreciate your body and what it was able to do. The outfit you choose can make a big difference in how your photos turn out. The right outfit, dress or look will flatter your growing bump, match your setting, and help you feel confident in front of the camera. Most importantly, it will make you feel like YOU. If you are planning a maternity photoshoot and wondering what to wear, here are some of my tips to help you feel comfortable, beautiful, and completely yourself.
Go with the Flow (Literally)
A flowy gown is a maternity photoshoot classic for a reason. The length and movement of the fabric flatter every shape and size, and they look amazing in photos, especially when the breeze catches them.
Additional bonus! They can hide any swelling in your ankles or feet that might be showing up late in pregnancy (aka me in my second pregnancy).
Outfit: There’s Nothing Quite Like You (floral)
Photographer: Liv Rollings Photography
Outfit: Goldie - Two Piece Set - Reclamation
Photographer: New Light Creative
Colours, Colours, Colours!
When it comes to maternity photoshoot dresses, soft colours tend to photograph best. They keep the focus on your bump and your connection rather than on a busy print.
For spring and summer, popular colours include ivory, blush pink, baby blue, or soft sage green. For autumn or winter maternity photoshoots, try rich seasonal tones like deep burgundy, emerald green, or mustard yellow for a beautiful contrast with the landscape.
In saying all of this, bold colours are fun when showing off your personality too!
Outfit: Mystical Wonders (Rust) - Two Piece Set - Reclamation
Photographer: Danielle Austen Photography
Outfit: Harper Gown
Photographer: Sophie Shaw Photos
Bring in Texture
Textures can bring so much depth and interest to your maternity photos. Think lace, crochet, tulle, ruffles, or even a chunky knit for a cozy winter shoot. Textured fabrics catch the light in beautiful ways, adding dimension and a tactile quality that makes your photos feel more alive.
Lace is timeless and feminine, tulle brings softness and a dreamy feel, while knits add warmth and comfort. Even a subtle detail like embroidered sleeves or a delicate trim can make your outfit look more unique. Choose a texture that complements your setting and the mood you want for your shoot, romantic, playful, rustic, or elegant.
Outfit: Pilar - Seafoam
Photographer: Sophie Shaw Photos
Embrace a Fitted Style
This is one of the few times in life where you can completely forget about “sucking in” your stomach. A fitted maternity gown can be incredibly flattering, showing off the beautiful curve of your bump.
Outfit: Daisy - Knit Floral Cardigan
Photographer: Sophie Shaw Photos
Comfort is Everything
Photoshoots can last a while, and if you are uncomfortable it will show in your face and body language. Dress for the season and the location. In summer, choose breathable fabrics like cotton or chiffon. In cooler months, layer with cardigans, shawls, or knit sweaters. The goal is to feel comfortable and relaxed so you can enjoy the moment.
See our Winter Warmers here https://makingmama.com.au/collections/winter-warmers
Outfit: Beth Robe - Robed Co.
Photographer: Niki Spencer Photography
Add a Robe
A robe can be an absolutely stunning choice for a maternity photoshoot. Flowing satin, silky chiffon, or delicate lace robes show off your femininity and frame your bump beautifully. They can be worn open over lingerie for a more intimate, sensual feel, or tied loosely for a soft, romantic look.
While robes are perfect for cozy at-home or studio sessions, they can also look breathtaking outdoors. Imagine the sunlight catching the sheer fabric as it moves in the breeze, or a long lace robe draped over a fitted slip against a gorgeous natural backdrop. Robes are also easy to slip on and off if you want to change your look quickly during the shoot, giving you variety without the hassle.
See Making Mama’s Robe Collection here. https://makingmama.com.au/collections/robes
Match Your Outfit to the Setting
Indoor Studio Sessions
Studio maternity photography often has a glamorous or dramatic feel, or a relaxed, cozy vibe, you and your photographer can make it what you want!
At-Home Sessions
Home sessions are cozy, personal, and often capture your family life in a natural way. Think soft knits, robes, or a midi dress.
Outfit: Kiko Floral - Nothing Fits But
Outdoor Sessions
Natural light adds a glow that is hard to replicate. You can choose a flowing dress for a romantic vibe or a fitted gown for a striking silhouette. The landscape can also inspire your colour choice, from soft pastels on the beach to rich jewel tones in the forest.
Outfit: Total Eclipse - Two Piece Set - Reclamation
Photographer: New Light Creative
Bring a Second (and Maybe Third) Outfit!
If your photoshoot runs for an hour or more, it is worth planning two or even three outfit changes. A standard 60-minute maternity session usually allows time for 2–3 distinct looks without feeling rushed. If you are booked in for a shorter 15-minute mini session, you might prefer one versatile outfit that can be styled in different ways, such as adding or removing a robe, swapping accessories, or layering with a cardigan.
Here are some combinations that work beautifully:
-
Two different dress styles, one for your solo portraits and another for photos with your partner or older children.
-
One flowing gown paired with a robe for a softer, more intimate look.
-
A dramatic maternity gown for the main portion of the shoot and a casual, relaxed outfit such as jeans with a fitted top or a cozy cardigan for a more lifestyle feel.
Changing outfits not only gives you variety in your gallery, it can also shift the mood of your session, from romantic and ethereal to playful and relaxed. It is also a great way to highlight different sides of your personality and celebrate your bump in more than one style.
Your maternity photoshoot is not about following strict fashion rules. It is about feeling like the most beautiful version of yourself during a season that will be over before you know it. Choose what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate your bump.
Feeling inspired? Have a look at our range here https://makingmama.com.au/collections/shop-all-making-mama-hire
Need more inspiration? Check out our insta: https://www.instagram.com/makingmama_hire/
In Canberra and wanting to book a try on? Book here: https://makingmama.com.au/pages/try-on-appointments-making-mama-hire
