This site contains affiliate links, meaning that we earn a small commission for purchases made through our site. We only recommend products we personally use, love, or have thoroughly vetted.
When many of us mamas plan our pregnancy photo sessions, we’ll start searching for the perfect ensemble to showcase our beautiful baby bumps. If you’re shopping for gorgeous maternity shoot outfits, we can help!
From maternity photoshoot dresses to belly-baring 2-piece sets, there are plenty of attractive options to pick from.
The most important piece of the pregnancy style is to find something you feel good in, though.
If you’re not a dress person, rock some jeans.
If you don’t feel comfortable showing any skin, don’t do it!
With so many options on the table, there’s no need to settle for a pregnancy shoot outfit that doesn’t appeal to you.
To help you choose, check out the options below for 25 of the most popular maternity outfits for YOUR photo shoot!
Things to Consider When Looking for Outfits for Maternity Photo Shoots
Before you hit the stores or start shopping online for your maternity shoot outfit, you need to consider a few essential things.
1. Season
Now listen, I’m all for expectant mamas showing off their beautiful curves during pregnancy. That said, if it’s the middle of winter in Michigan, stripping down outside is probably not the most comfortable pregnancy shoot option.
Consider the season of your shoot before picking your’s and your partner’s outfits. This will help you narrow down the options and, hopefully, simplify your choice.
2. Location
As a part-time photographer myself, I’ve noticed that clients don’t always consider how their outfits will work with the location they pick.
For instance, I’ve had people show up to the beach in heels on more than one occasion – not a good idea.
Think about how your chosen maternity photo shoot site will play into what you’re wearing.
Are you going for a rustic vibe at a farm? You might be dealing with mud. Are you hoping to take photos sitting or lying in the grass? A short, mini dress may result in some flashing.
3. Budget
The most important thing when picking an outfit is to find something within your budget.
Yes, each maternity session is a special occasion, but that doesn’t mean you need to take out a second mortgage for the clothes you wear.
I love sending clients to websites like Amazon and PinkBlush Maternity if they need help finding something to wear for their session.
If you’re planning and budgeting for a baby, it’s also a good idea to add your photo shoot outfit to your list of maternity must-haves.
4. Colors
So, this isn’t a necessity, but it’s sometimes nice to think about your home or even the baby’s nursery when creating your wardrobe for maternity pictures.
I’m slightly OCD when it comes to matching, so I always try to pick clothes that will go with the color scheme inside my house. Since you might want to add some pregnancy photos to the baby’s room, you could also choose options that match their decor.
5. Comfort
This one should probably go without saying, but pick clothes you feel comfortable in.
While this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to wear jeans and a t-shirt (unless you want to, of course!), just find something you can easily move in that is not too restricting.
Does Your Photographer Offer a Maternity Shoot Closet?
Along with talking to them about maternity shoot poses and location ideas, it never hurts to ask your photographer if they have a client closet you can look through. Sometimes, former clients will donate their dresses and outfits, or the photographer might buy items to have available.
This is a great way to save some money!
You can also ask other friends who’ve had babies if they have anything leftover from their pregnancy wardrobe that you can borrow.
How Many Pregnancy Shoot Outfits Do You Need?
Is your Pinterest board so loaded with ideas that you’re having difficulty deciding which one is perfect for your big moment in front of the camera?
You’re not alone.
The question is, how many maternity shoot outfits should you get?
This comes down to two things: personal choice and your photographer’s rules.
Some photographers have policies about wardrobe changes in their session packages. They might charge more money for more than one outfit.
As a general rule, I’ve found that one outfit is plenty.
If you’re in love with a second option, too, though, I’d like to suggest this maternity shoot tip:
Think about how much time you’ll have to take photos and whether there’s a spot to change in!
The Best Places to Find an Outfit for Maternity Sessions
Aside from Amazon and PinkBlush Maternity, there are some other great spots to find gorgeous maternity photoshoot outfits:
Stunning Maxi Maternity Dresses You’re Sure to Love
For some reason, most of the inspiration photos you see for maternity photos involve a maxi dress. Actually, I shouldn’t make it sound like I don’t understand why – they’re comfy, eye-catching, and look so romantic during sessions!
Here are some of our long maternity gowns:
1. PinkBlush Off-the-Shoulder Wrap Maternity Gown
This gorgeous off-the-shoulder maxi dress is a bestseller at PinkBlush Maternity.
A solid maternity photoshoot gown featuring an off shoulder elastic neckline with a wra… [More]
It comes in several color options and offers a figure-hugging design that provides a stunning silhouette and accents the shape of your bump.
2. Flowy Mermaid-Cut Maternity Shoot Maxi Dress
With 2,700 reviews on Amazon, it’s not surprising that this is one of the most popular formal dresses for pregnancy photo sessions!
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a photographer capture one of those breathtaking shots of your skirt billowing out behind you while you gently cradle your baby bump, this is the dress to do it with.
3. Long-Sleeved Chiffon Mermaid Gown
With a skirt that flutters down to the floor and elegant chiffon fabric, this dress on Amazon is one of my favorites. I love how the wrap design and ruffled bottom tier provide so much texture.
Plus, it’s got long sleeves, making it a fantastic option for winter mamas.
4. Serene Sunshine Smocked Maxi Dress by Lulu’s
Are you searching for a more casual look that’s perfect for spring or summer? Then you don’t want to miss this adorable maxi dress from Lulu’s!
Note: While many of Lulu’s dresses are bump-friendly, they aren’t specifically maternity. You might want to size up when ordering.
5. Rainbow Maternity Shoot Gown from Etsy
If you’re experiencing pregnancy after miscarriage, why not celebrate your rainbow baby with your maternity photos?
A rainbow baby is any child born after previous losses. For some parents, they signify the rainbow after the storm.
From rainbow baby announcements to pregnancy shoots, this gorgeous gown is sure to be a popular choice.
6. Belted Maternity Maxi Dress with Flutter Sleeves
If you want to match your outfit to your baby’s nursery, this dress is a great place to start the search.
A chiffon maxi dress with wrap v-neckline short sleeves and sash tie waist. Elastic wa… [More]
It has delicate flutter sleeves and comes in tons of beautiful color options.
7. Lace Mesh Overlay Maternity Maxi Gown
I only have one word to describe this maternity shoot dress- stunning.
It blends modern trends with classic designs to create a truly unforgettable product.
A lace mesh overlay maxi dress featuring beautiful scalloped trim semi-sheer short bel… [More]
If you’d like to wear something with an Old Hollywood flair, this could be it!
8. Long-Sleeve Maternity Maxi Dress from Amazon
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills maxi dress to wear during your maternity shoot, you will love this design from Amazon! It comes in a wide range of color options and patterns. What’s even better? It’s earned more than 23,000 reviews!
It’s obviously doing something right!
Short Pregnancy Dresses for Eye-Catching Pregnancy Photos
Not everyone loves rocking a maxi dress for pregnancy photo shoots. That’s why we’re thrilled there are so many gorgeous short-dress options!
1. Chevron Overlay Maternity Dress
Do you have a soft spot for retro-inspired clothing? If so, you’ll love this chevron design from PinkBlush Maternity!
This adorable swing dress has long bell sleeves, a flowy skirt, and two layers of fabric to avoid being see-through.
Add a chic modern flair to your collection with this fun dress. A gorgeous solid dress … [More]
It also comes in several colors.
2. Mother Bee Maternity Wrap Dress
I’m a sucker for a good wrap dress, and this one’s no exception!
Available on Amazon, this affordable maternity shoot outfit is one of the most popular short styles on the market.
3. Elbow Length Side Ruched Tee Shirt Dress
So, this bodycon pregnancy dress earns a lot of brownie points with me for its versatility.
This product will make an amazing addition if you’re creating a maternity capsule wardrobe.
Not only will it look great in your photos, but you can also dress it up or down to make many different looks throughout your pregnancy.
4. Velvet Ruched Bell Sleeve Dress
I can’t be the only person that’s noticed velvet making a serious style comeback recently, right? If you’re into this look, this maternity shoot dress from PinkBlush will catch your eye.
A velvet maternity fitted dress featuring a rounded neckline long bell sleeves and ruc… [More]
I love the idea of wearing a dress like this if you have maternity photos taken during winter or around the holiday season.
5. Off Shoulder Sweater Maternity Dress
Why not wrap your baby bump up in a luxurious sweater dress during the winter months for your maternity photos?
This is another excellent, versatile style that can make the perfect dressy or casual outfit.
6. V-Neck Cinched Maternity Dress from PinkBlush Maternity
Are you searching for the perfect boho maternity dress? Look no further!
A solid short dress with a deep v-neckline button and cinching detail on bodice bubbl… [More]
This adorable outfit from PinkBlush will pop in your upcoming pregnancy photos.
7. Deco Skater Dress from ASOS
Why not add a little bit of flair to your maternity shoot outfit? The adorable embellishments on this ASOS maternity dress will do just that!
Something I appreciate about this style is that it’s made to fit your body during and AFTER pregnancy. So even when your bump is a memory, you’ll still be able to rock this gorgeous dress.
8. Floral Ruffle Sleeve Smock Maternity Dress
I love the delicate floral design of this smock maternity dress.
A lightweight floral print dress featuring 3/4 ruffle sleeves a smocked top and a squa… [More]
It’s cute, fun, and perfect for pregnancy photos!
Belly-Baring Pregnancy Outfits to Accentuate Your Bump
While rocking lingerie is one way to show off your bare bump during a pregnancy photoshoot, it’s not the only way to expose a little skin.
Here are a few gorgeous belly-baring outfits you need to see.
1. See-Through Lace Dress on Amazon
So, if you’re like me and don’t feel completely comfortable with the idea of exposing your whole bump, this see-through dress could be a great alternative.
It still offers a bare-skin look at your gorgeous belly while leaving a little to the imagination.
Plus, the lace details are absolutely exquisite!
2. Long-Sleeve Chiffon Maternity Gown
With a split that runs from right under your bust, this beautiful gown will have your bump on full display.
There are tons of colors to pick from, and it’s one of the most affordable options on Amazon.
3. 2-Piece Open Belly Skirt Set
With a long-sleeve crop top and a sleek skirt that rests under your belly, this is a stylish and sexy outfit for maternity photos.
It’s made from comfortable ribbed-knit material and comes in several colors.
4. Maternity Lace Maternity Maxi Dress
Available in black, red, and white lace, this elegant maxi dress comes with a front split for all of your baby bump photography needs.
Many reviewers rave about the softness of this dress and how gorgeous it looked in their pregnancy photos.
5. Open Tulle Maternity Shoot Dress
How would you like to bring a little Hollywood glamor to your upcoming maternity photoshoot? If the answer is yes, your search for an outfit stops now.
This showstopping gown will have you feeling like a true star on the silver screen!
6. Off Shoulder Lace Pregnancy Photo Gown
Similar to the first style in this section, this dress is see-through instead of having an open front.
It features an A-Line skirt and billowy long sleeves for an enchanting overall look.
Non-Dress Options for Maternity Photo Shoots
Not everyone wants to wear a dress for their maternity photos. If you’re looking for alternative options, check these out!
1. Motherhood Maternity Denim Overalls
There’s something so classic and cute about a good pair of overalls. This pair from Motherhood Maternity would bring a unique flair to your pregnancy photos.
You could wear them with a classic tee or even a crop top to show off a little skin.
2. Wide Leg Smocked Jumpsuit from PinkBlush Maternity
It took me a while to get on board with jumpsuits and rompers, but now that I have, they’re one of my favorite things to wear!
A sleeveless jumpsuit featuring a smocked bust side pockets and wide legs. [More]
If you like non-dress maternity shoot outfits, this smock wide-leg jumpsuit will not only look cute and casual during your photography session, but it’s an outfit you can easily keep wearing throughout pregnancy and beyond.
3. Floral Cut-Out Maternity Romper
If you’re planning a maternity photoshoot during spring or summer, this floral romper will be the perfect addition to your pictures! It’s lightweight, comfortable, and even adjustable.
A floral print romper featuring a rounded neckline adjustable cami straps side pocket… [More]
Plus, it has pockets – enough said!
Pick Something You Feel Good In for Your Maternity Photos
At the end of the day, try not to stress too much about what you wear for pregnancy photos. As long as it’s something you feel good about, that’s all that really matters!
What type of maternity shoot outfits are you most interested in?
Maternity Wardrobe Link-Roundup
Want to learn more about dressing your bump and body during pregnancy? Check out these fantastic articles!
- Maternity Essentials
- Best Maternity Bras
- Labor & Delivery Gowns
- Pregnancy Underwear
- Maternity Leggings
- Maternity Jeans
- Maternity Swimsuits
- Plus-Size Maternity Clothes
Kristen Bergeron is a freelance writer from Florida. In addition to writing, she is a wife, mother of two beautiful girls, Hadley and Scarlett, and a part-time photographer. After overcoming infertility and having two successful IVF cycles, she’s made it a personal goal to help educate men and women on the realities of fertility struggles. She is passionate about supporting fellow women who are trying to navigate the complicated world of conception, pregnancy, and learning to be the best mothers we can be.
