What to Wear for a Maternity Photoshoot: Top 5 Looks That Always Look Perfect

Preparing for a maternity photoshoot almost always starts with the same question: what should I wear?

This is completely normal. Outfits play a key role in a maternity photoshoot. They highlight your baby bump, set the mood of the session, and help you feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera.

As a Chicago maternity photographer, I have seen over the years which outfits truly work and photograph beautifully. Below are five maternity photoshoot outfit ideas that always look flattering and are perfect for a studio maternity photoshoot.


Maternity photoshoot jeans outfit

Classic Look: Jeans and a Shirt or Top

One of the most popular and versatile maternity photoshoot outfits.

This look feels simple, stylish, and very natural, making it ideal if you want clean and modern images.

Light-colored shirts work best, such as white, cream, or beige. You can slightly unbutton the shirt or tie it under the bust to softly accentuate your bump. This option works beautifully for individual sessions, family maternity photos, and portraits with your partner.


Pregnant woman in black one-piece, holding baby bump, studio portrait

Bodysuit: Minimal and Shape-Focused

A closed bodysuit is a great option if you prefer a minimal and clean aesthetic.

It highlights your shape without distracting details and photographs especially well in studio lighting.

This look is often chosen for timeless black-and-white maternity photos.


Pregnant woman in elegant long black floor-length dress with high slit, standing pose, hands on baby bump, studio maternity photoshoot

Elegant Floor-Length Dress

A maternity photography classic that never goes out of style.

Floor-length dresses visually elongate the silhouette and add softness, femininity, and elegance to maternity photos.

Solid colors in calm tones such as cream, beige, blush, or chocolate look especially beautiful in studio maternity sessions and work well at almost any stage of pregnancy.


Dramatic maternity photoshoot gown

Voluminous Gown: The Wow Effect

If you are dreaming of bold, fashion-inspired maternity photos, a voluminous gown is the perfect choice.

It adds movement, drama, and creates striking editorial-style images.

This look works especially well during a studio maternity photoshoot, where lighting and fabric movement can be fully controlled.


Pregnant woman with blue satin heart wings, maternity studio portrait

Fabrics: Artistic and Emotional

Fabric looks are all about softness, air, and emotion.

They create beautiful silhouettes, emphasize body lines, and give maternity photos an artistic and intimate feel.

This option is often chosen by clients who want something unique, expressive, and slightly more artistic.


An Important Note

If you are planning a maternity photoshoot in Chicago and do not want to spend time or money shopping for outfits, that is absolutely okay.

In my studio, I offer a client wardrobe at no extra cost. It includes designer maternity gowns, fabrics, and props such as angel wings and feather capes. All outfits are selected specifically to photograph beautifully during studio maternity sessions.

We choose looks together before the shoot based on your style, stage of pregnancy, and overall mood so everything feels natural and harmonious.

Learn more about studio maternity photoshoots in Chicago and book your session on the main page of my website.

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Best Time for a Maternity Photoshoot (28–32 Weeks)