What to Wear for Your Maternity Photoshoot
Looking Elegant, Comfortable, and Authentically You
Choosing what to wear for your maternity photoshoot doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. The right wardrobe enhances your natural shape, photographs beautifully, and allows you to feel confident and at ease during your session.
→ Learn more about my maternity photography experience in Johannesburg
If you’re planning your session, the maternity photoshoot guide outlines what to expect before and during your shoot.
Why studio outfits matter
Clothing choices influence how light, form, and emotion are captured — especially in fine-art portraiture.
The most successful maternity portraits are created when clothing supports the emotion of the moment — never distracting from it.
Below are timeless wardrobe suggestions that photograph beautifully in a fine-art maternity session.
Classic & Elegant Wardrobe Choices
These styles create refined, sculptural portraits that emphasise form, light, and connection.
Form-Fitting Dress
A long, stretchy dress in solid tones such as black, white, soft neutrals, or blush gently defines your bump and creates clean, elegant lines.
Tulle Gown
Flowing tulle adds softness and movement, creating a romantic, fine-art aesthetic that works beautifully with studio lighting.
Sheer Lace Robe
Delicate lace adds texture while subtly revealing the bump, making it perfect for intimate, feminine portraits.
Silk Slip Dress
Minimal and timeless, silk drapes naturally over the body, creating a refined, modern look.
Black Turtleneck Dress
A favourite for minimalist portraits — striking, sculptural, and timeless, especially in black-and-white imagery.
Casual & Relaxed Options
These choices create portraits that feel natural, intimate, and emotionally expressive.
What to avoid
Logos, busy patterns, reflective materials, and loud textures can distract from connection and form.
Button-Up Shirt
Wearing your partner’s oversized white shirt feels relaxed and personal, adding emotional depth to the portrait.
Regular Jeans with a Fitted Top
Classic denim (often unbuttoned beneath the bump) paired with a simple top creates a contemporary, confident look.
Maxi Dress
Comfortable and flattering, ideal for gentle movement and relaxed poses.
Knitted Sweater Dress
Cosy textures work beautifully in cooler months and add warmth to winter maternity portraits.
Tank Top with Leggings
Simple, modern, and understated — perfect for clean, lifestyle-inspired portraits.
Bold & Statement Choices
For those drawn to colour or stronger visual impact, bold styling can be used thoughtfully.
Jewel-toned gowns such as emerald, sapphire, or burgundy
Statement fabrics or textures are used sparingly
Strong contrast against black or white studio backgrounds
The key is balance — bold choices work best when paired with clean styling and simple composition.
Artistic & Creative Styling
For clients who love expressive imagery, these options transform portraits into fine-art statements.
Sheer Fabric Draping
Soft fabrics sculpt the body and interact beautifully with light, creating elegant, flowing shapes.
Body Paint or Henna
Intricate designs can turn your bump into a deeply personal work of art.
Statement Jewellery with a Bare Bump
Bold or cultural jewellery paired with minimal styling creates striking, powerful imagery.
Boho-Inspired Looks
Flowing lace, layered textures, and natural elements create an ethereal, free-spirited feel.
Silhouette-Friendly Styling
Snug-fitting dresses or tops work beautifully for backlit silhouettes that highlight the shape of a pregnant body.
Minimalist & Timeless Styling
Monochrome or all-black outfits create cohesive, classic portraits that will never date. These looks place the focus firmly on emotion, form, and connection — not fashion trends.
Final Thoughts
Your maternity wardrobe should reflect who you are and how you want to remember this extraordinary chapter. Whether your style is refined, relaxed, artistic, or bold, thoughtful clothing choices help create portraits that feel timeless and deeply personal.
If you’re unsure what will work best, guidance is always provided before your session.
Styling works hand in hand with light and pose. You may enjoy reading more about my approach to maternity posing and lighting.
→ Learn more about my maternity photography experience in Johannesburg
