Maternity Photoshoot Styling Guide – Helena Photographs

Hey everyone! I wanted to make this blog for my amazing clients. I know you are already investing time and money into the photoshoot it self but the outfit really plays a big factor in the style and look of the photoshoot. I promised to hold your hand your whole way through and here I am.

I want to share things I have seen and observed as a photographer and give you the best tips and advice to LOVE your photos and also feel so beautiful during this photoshoot.

Choose a Flattering Silhouette

When it comes to choosing a dress or outfit, look for a silhouette that flatters your body type. Dresses that hug you in the right places and have a flowy, flared shape tend to work well in photos.

Here are some examples of things you can look out for:

• Dresses that hug you at your chest or right above your belly. Dresses that are loose below your chest and on your belly.

• There are a lot of maternity dresses that will hug you right below your belly usually are not the most flattering. This is a personal preference of course but usually, it does not give us many opportunities for candid, warm photos. Usually, skin-tight short dresses can feel really static and you will feel that in your photos.

• Consider the length of the dress – something that reaches the floor can add an elegant touch to your photos.

I find that dresses that are flowier and that flare give us a lot more opportunities for photos.

Or also if you want a boudoir and sexier type of photoshoot here is an example below of what we can create!

A popular theme of recent has been jeans and bra top which I find is flattering on a lot of people!

Wear Colors that Compliment Each Other

Choosing colors is another important factor to keep in mind. Earthy, warm, and neutral colors tend to look great in photos and can give your pictures a timeless quality. However, avoid black or dark colors that can hide your belly – after all, this is the star of the show in your maternity shoot!

Finally, don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and textures with your partner or family members if you’re doing a group shoot. Instead of matching outfits, try coordinating colors and choosing pieces that compliment each other. This can add some visual interest to your photos and create a more dynamic look. If the color scheme is the color blue, we can mix and match shades, textures, and other neutrals! Let’s say the lady is wearing a white shirt, and blue jeans, then her partner should wear a gray shirt, and black pants. This is a very simple example but this type of outfit gives the photo some dynamic. You will see what I mean in a second.

• Below you can see that the couple are not wearing the exact same colors but match their environment and look well together

• Below is another great example of this couple also complimenting each other and matching their environment

Please avoid the color black or any dark colors covering your belly! Your belly is the star of the show, please do not cover it up.

Wear Clothes You Are Comfortable In

It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your outfit so that you can truly shine in your photos. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect outfit for your shoot.

First of all, think about clothes that you love and feel comfortable in. This could be a favorite dress, a cozy sweater, or a pair of jeans that fit just right. When you wear something that you feel good in, it will show in your photos and you’ll be more relaxed in front of the camera.

Skin Tight Outfits Vs. Flowy Dresses

Of course, this is a personal and aesthetic preference, but I want to give you some insight. I will show you explanations and explain what outfits fit what aesthetic and their ideal settings and some exceptions.

• Flowy dresses are best for outdoor settings, or in a studio where the feel is a bit more intimate, and warm, Ideal for photos with movement and will allow a lot of flexibility for different types of poses

• Skin Tight Dresses: These of course are beautiful as well and with some dancing and a little bit of movement, these photos give us a peek into this soon-to-be mom and dad’s life!

• Here is an example of a dress that would fit a studio photoshoot with high-quality lighting and posed photos. These setups will allow us to have traditional poses and backgrounds due to the nature of the project and if that is up your alley, let’s go for it! This specific dress below is amazing because of the length and the slight flare. Please avoid anything that will cut off at your ankles or in your shin area.

Well, those are all the tips I have for right now and the most important one to take away from this is to make sure to choose a flattering silhouette! I know during this time, many moms tell me that they feel self conscious, and I totally get that. These photos will be celebrated and cherished for years to come. I want everyone I work with to understand that I truly see that and care for that. I also want you to feel the most confident and beautiful. So if you have any questions or concerns, reach out to me and I am more than happy to help you! Thank you for stopping by!