Preparing For A Maternity Photography Session- What To Wear

While I was booking a maternity photography session today and the mommy-to-be asked me “What should she wear”? Her question inspired this post.

I encourage mommies-to-be that want to take maternity photos to wait until 32-34 weeks before their session.  It is when your belly has really out there. It’s obvious that this point that you are pregnant and the belly can really become a focal point. One major key with maternity sessions is to provide a visible separation between your chest and belly.  Otherwise, as any pregnant woman can tell you, you become one slope from neck to belly button. Not horrible but not great for photos. You want that visual break. This can be achieved with your hand placements during the shoot, which your photographer should direct you and pose you. It can also easily be seen with your clothing choices. In terms of fit, I always suggest tighter fitting clothes. You are full of curves and life, show them off!!

Tops: In general you want something that covers arms, unless you have fabulous arms.  I like something that is tighter fitting over the belly and then looser over the arms.  Two great options are something with a gathered waist or seam just below the bust.  Or a tighter fitting tee with gathers on the side to frame the belly.  But if you are going to do something that doesn’t have a defined waist, slim fitting is key.  Also don’t be afraid to wear a tight tank top under an unbuttoned cardigan!  I always tell clients that they are welcome to wear as much or little clothing as possible.  Cardigans are a great way to stay covered but offer the option of showing belly.

Bottoms: The key with pants is not to create slope from belly to crotch.  Have some definition in there where your belly ends.  Jeans are great for a maternity.  A pair of nice wide leg jean can balance your figure out, and skinny jeans and leggings can look SUPER cute with a longer top.  Don’t be afraid of cords either, especially in the fall. Additionally, if you still fit into them wear your pre-pregnancy jeans and leave them unzipped and open for some bare belly shots.

Dresses: Don’t be afraid to rock a dress!!  In the summer I love Maxi dresses on maternities. Though, you want that definition there and to show off your curves so don’t go for a massively loose dress.  Go for dresses that are either tight fitting throughout the body, or have a tie, or waist below the bust.  Wrap dresses work great.  Something that shows off your shape and defines the different parts of your figure.

So in general remember to show off your shape.  You are beautiful!  Don’t cover it up in lots of loose clothes. Visit Maternity Photography Portfolio to see more examples of what to wear.

What Not To Wear:

• Large prints are a no no.
• Super voluminous dresses and tops.
• Super slinky materials that will show every bulge.

Additional Things To Remember Before Your Shoot:

• Manicured Nails
• Makeup Application
• Nice Hair Style
• A Great Bra

Do you live in Richmond, Virginia or the surrounding area and expecting a little bundle of joy? Book your maternity photo session with use. For more information please visit www.throughmylynnz.com