How to Style Your Maternity Photoshoot: Tips from a Raleigh Newborn and Maternity Photographer
One of my favorite things about being a Raleigh newborn and maternity photographer is making the mama-to-be feel beautiful and confident during her session. This is such a special way to celebrate your journey into motherhood, so obviously, your style will majorly play a part in showcasing you during this time in your photos. In this post, I'm glad to share a few useful tips on how to style your maternity photo session so you can feel your very best!
1. Choose the Right Outfit: Comfort Meets Elegance
What will make or break a beautiful maternity session is how well you balance style with comfort. Here are a few ideas to get you going for that perfect outfit:
Flowing Dresses: The long, flowing dresses will make your tummy look great and add an extra touch of grace and movement to your picture. Fabrics like chiffon, silk, or tulle create beautiful, soft silhouettes outdoors and in a studio.
Form-Fitting Gowns: If you want to show off your baby bump, the form-fitting gown is the way to go. These dresses accentuate your curves, making the baby bump the center of attention while making you look totally glamorous.
Two-piece outfits: A two-piece outfit, such as a skirt and crop top, is actually a super fun and cute way to show off the tummy. Great for moms looking for something really modern, casual, and showing that pregnancy glow off.
Layover Options: If you are doing your session outdoors or in cooler months, consider layering on a cardigan, shawl, or denim jacket. It really adds texture to the outfit, and can be so great to help keep you warm while providing a few different looks in one session.
Solid Colors versus Patterns: Solid colors generally photograph well and give a timeless aspect to the photo. Neutral tones, such as soft pastel shades, whites, and earthy tones, will keep the focus on you. If you are into patterns, you may opt for very soft, subtle designs that will not be distracting from your baby bump or from the overall mood of the photo.
2. Location and Theme
Your maternity photography shoot's location and theme should be complemented by your wardrobe. You could go all natural and outdoors or, well, just plain elegant. Here are some ideas about popular settings and how to style them:
Outdoor Settings/Nature: In areas like parks, gardens, or the beach, flowy, bohemian-style dresses look great. Soft and muted tones also have spectacularly effective results. Just think of being able to blend in with nature for that down-to-earth feel. Flowing dresses that have a lot of movement look great pitted against nature.
Studio Sessions: In the case of indoor studio sessions, one can think about more refined and glam looks. Studio settings allow you to manipulate more dramatic fabrics-like satin or silk-even more fitted styles. Classic, elegant colors like black, white, or even jewel tones can make it look oh-so-modern and sophisticated.
Themed Shoots: If you want a certain theme, like a vintage, whimsical, or minimalist look, let your wardrobe reflect that. Like, for example, a lace dress for a vintage or just a simple sleek gown for a simple approach.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully
While the baby bump is the star of the show, accessories can add a personal touch to complete your look:
Floral Crowns: Add that soft, romantic vibe in your photos with a floral crown. It is one beautiful way to enhance a nature setting and add color to it.
Belts or Sashes: If you happen to be wearing a flowy or empire-waist dress, a belt or sash can help outline your baby bump, giving your outfit more shape.
Jewelry: Keep it simple! Delicate necklaces or earrings just add that sparkle without overpowering an outfit. Choose something that is special to you, or one that will characterize your style.
Shoes: Comfy flats or sandals for outdoor sessions are sensible and will not detract from what you will wear. For studio sessions, if you want to get more formal, a pair of simple, classic heels will just do the trick.
4. Hair and Makeup: Enhance Your Natural Glow
Your hair and makeup should complement, not overshadow your natural beauty. Here are just a few tips to look your best on camera:
Soft, Natural Makeup: Fresh, natural makeup will be just perfect for your maternity photo shoot. Bring out the real you with light foundation, soft blush, and a very light highlighter to give an attractive glow to your skin. A neutral or soft pink lip color can add color without drawing too much attention.
Hair: flowy or styled? Depending on the style of your shoot, loose waves can look great, but so can a simple updo. If you want something super casual, leave your hair down in soft waves. If you're going for something a little classier, an elegant updo can really help to set off your dress.
Not sure? Book a professional makeup artist and/or hairstylist. This will take the stress off of getting ready for the session. Many maternity photographers, like myself, have certain contacts that are local stylists who can help you achieve just the right look.
5. Include Your Partner and Kids
Coordinate with your partner or older children to create a blended look for your maternity session. You want everyone's clothing to complement but not be too matchy.
Partner: A partner can wear neutral tones or complimenting colors to your outfit. A simple button-down shirt or a dress and jeans combo work, too. The key is to keep it relaxed and natural.
Children: When incorporating your older children, choose the clothes that coordinate and complement the family attire. Simple, neutrally-colored outfits for children allow the attention to remain on the family connection.
6. Timing Is Everything: When to Schedule Your Maternity Photoshoot
This is usually between 28 and 34 weeks into your pregnancy. Your belly is beautifully rounded at this point, but you are still comfortable enough to pose and move around during your session. If you are carrying twins or higher-order multiples, you may want to consider scheduling a bit earlier than that-between 26-30 weeks-so that you are feeling relatively comfortable during the session.
Final Thoughts
Styling your maternity photoshoot is all about exuding confidence, feeling beautiful, and connected to this particular chapter in your life. Whether soft and dreamy, modern and chic, or a theme that truly speaks to you, the bottom line remains to wear what makes you feel great. As your Raleigh newborn and maternity photographer, I want to be sure and capture the beauty of this moment and create lasting memories you'll treasure forever.