What to Wear for Maternity Photos

Wondering what to wear for maternity photos?

Choosing what to wear for maternity photos can feel overwhelming, but the goal is actually quite simple. Wear something that highlights your baby bump and helps you feel beautiful and comfortable.

Maternity sessions are typically photographed between 32–36 weeks, when your belly has a beautiful, full shape but you’re still feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.

For most maternity sessions, fitted pieces, soft dresses, or simple outfits that show the shape of your belly photograph beautifully and create images that feel timeless.

Maternity sessions are usually photographed in a studio or at home, so choosing pieces that feel soft and natural and work well with light, simple spaces makes all the difference.

When you keep to a soft, neutral palette, your maternity photos will blend seamlessly with your newborn images — looking especially beautiful when displayed together in an album.

Showing Your Baby Bump

One of the most important parts of maternity photography is celebrating your pregnancy and the beautiful shape of your body during this season.

For that reason, when deciding what to wear for maternity photos, choose clothing that best highlights your belly.

Instead of overly loose pieces that hide your shape, choose outfits that allow your silhouette to remain visible while still feeling comfortable and natural.

Many photographers, myself included, offer a curated wardrobe for maternity sessions, so you don’t need to worry about finding something you may only wear once.

Fitted Pieces

If you’re drawn to simple, elegant images, fitted pieces are always a beautiful choice.

A soft dress, bodysuit, or fitted top naturally highlights your bump and creates a clean, timeless look.

These pieces allow the focus to stay on your shape and the connection you have with your baby.

Jeans & Simple Looks

A more relaxed and timeless option is pairing jeans with a simple top.

Many moms choose to wear their pre-pregnancy jeans unbuttoned, so they sit comfortably below the bump, and we aren’t seeing the fabric panels that maternity jeans have.

Some favorite combinations include:

• jeans with a fitted tank
• jeans with a soft crop top
• jeans with an open button-down shirt

These looks feel natural and effortless, and photograph beautifully.

Soft, Oversized Layers

Another easy option when deciding what to wear for maternity photos in Salem, Oregon is going for a more relaxed feel, with oversized knits, button-down shirts, or cozy layers.

These pieces add softness and texture while still allowing your shape to show through.

Borrowing a partner’s shirt can also create images that feel especially personal and intimate.

Robes or Lingerie

Maternity sessions can also be a space to embrace a more intimate and feminine side.

Simple robes or soft lingerie pieces can feel both elegant and natural, especially when styled in a minimal, light-filled space.

The goal is always for you to feel comfortable and fully yourself when deciding what to wear for maternity photos.

Dresses

Dresses remain one of the most popular choices for maternity sessions. They are easy because they are a one-and-done piece.

Look for dresses with:

• a fitted bodice
• a waistline that sits just under the bust
• soft, flowing fabric
• sheer fabric

These details create beautiful movement while still highlighting your shape.

Blazer and Dress Pants

For a more modern, elevated, and editorial look, a blazer paired with a bralette or fitted top and tailored pants can feel both strong and feminine.

This style highlights your shape while adding a bit of structure, creating a look that feels effortless but polished.

Neutral tones and soft fabrics help keep the overall feel timeless, while the tailored elements add just enough contrast to make the images feel refined and intentional.

It’s a beautiful option if you’re drawn to something a little more styled while still feeling like yourself.

What Should Your Partner Wear

If your partner will be part of your maternity session, their outfit should complement yours without drawing attention away from you.

Simple, understated pieces tend to photograph best.

Some easy options include:

• neutral-toned shirts
• soft sweaters
• simple button-downs
• dark jeans or tailored pants

The goal is for everything to feel cohesive and natural, so the focus stays on you, your baby, and the connection you share.

Bringing it All Together

You don’t need to have everything perfectly planned before your session. I recommend coming to the studio with at least one outfit that you know you love and that fits great. From there, we can add a few more pieces from the studio client wardrobe so that you have a good amount of variety in your final gallery.

If you’re expecting and thinking about maternity or newborn photos, this is usually the time to begin planning.

Most families choose to reserve their session during pregnancy so everything is already taken care of before baby arrives.

If this is something you’ve been considering, you can reach out here to learn more or reserve your date.

I’m a short drive away from Portland, and I encourage you to make a day trip of it!  Salem is nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, and we have farmers markets, adorable shops, art boutiques, and of course, beautiful river views.  Celebrate this special time in your life because, in a few weeks, you’re going to be a new family!

Let’s do this!