What to Wear for Your Maternity Session (Without the Stress)
Neutral tones and soft textures, like this knit + linen combo, pair beautifully with outdoor settings—especially when you’re incorporating meaningful elements, like your favorite horse.
Let’s be real—choosing outfits for photos can feel weirdly stressful.
You're growing a whole human, trying to figure out what fits, and now you're expected to look camera-ready too?! Girl. I got you.
As a maternity and motherhood photographer here in Central Mississippi, I’ve worked with all kinds of families, vibes, and belly bumps—and I promise, getting your wardrobe right doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here are some tried-and-true tips (straight from my styling guide!) to help you look and feel amazing during your session.
👗 Start with You, Mama
If we’re photographing your family, always begin with YOUR outfit. Choose something that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and comfortable—and build everyone else’s outfits around it.
For maternity solo or couple sessions, keep it simple but intentional. Think: flowy dress + subtle accessories = magic.
🎨 Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette
You don’t need everyone in matching shirts (please don’t 😅).
Instead, choose complementary tones—neutrals, earth tones, soft pastels, or even bold jewel tones. Pick a color palette and let each outfit live within it.
✨ Pro Tip: Pinterest is your best friend—search “[your color] color palette” and build from there!
🚫 Skip the Logos & Neons
Bright neons and large logos can reflect weird in lighting and pull attention away from your face. Stick to solid colors, soft patterns, and larger prints if you want to mix it up.
🌿 Dress for the Season (and the Location)
Outdoor fields → flowy maxi dresses, soft knits, layers
In-home sessions → cozy textures, fitted basics, barefoot vibes
Studio or minimalist setups → neutral tones, soft fabrics, statement pieces
🧥 Add Layers & Textures
Texture photographs beautifully. Think denim, knits, linen, lace, leather, velvet. Adding layers not only gives your photos depth but also lets you play with movement and light.
💄 Keep Makeup + Accessories Natural
You don’t need a full glam squad. Stick to natural tones that enhance your features. A little mascara and a soft lip go a long way! Keep accessories simple so the focus stays on you.
👡 Don’t Forget the Shoes
Shoes can make or break the final look—and yep, they’ll probably show. If you’re doing sandals, treat yourself to a quick pedi. If we’re in a field, booties, bare feet, or flat sandals are always a win.
Barefoot on the sand, in breezy whites that move with the wind—simple details like this help your session feel natural, relaxed, and timeless.
🛍 Where I Shop for Photo-Friendly Outfits
Here are a few of my go-to spots for finding photogenic looks that fit a variety of styles and budgets:
Baltic Born – My fave for maternity dresses and client closet pieces
Boot Barn / Cavender’s – Western flair for the whole fam
Old Navy / H&M – Affordable basics and kiddo outfits
Joy Folie – High-end kiddo pieces
Belk, JCPenney, Kohls – Great for men’s shirts and last-minute finds
These aren't sponsored, just places I’ve personally shopped and loved.
✨ Bonus Tip: Get a Color Analysis!
Still overwhelmed? Try a free online color analysis quiz to see what shades flatter your skin tone best.
📎 Here’s one I like
Trust me—it’s kind of addictive.
💬 Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, confidence is what photographs best.
Pick something you can move in, breathe in, and feel beautiful in. I’ll handle the light, the angles, and the vibes—we’ll create magic together.
Got questions or want personalized styling help for your session?
Reach out anytime—I’m here to help!
