Plus Size Maternity Photography: A Complete Guide to Celebrating Your Pregnancy

By Roger Mitchell | December 27, 2024 | 8 min read

I've heard the concerns many times: "Will I look okay?" "Should I wait until after the baby?" "I'm not sure maternity photos are for someone my size." If you're having these thoughts, I want you to know something important: you absolutely deserve stunning maternity portraits, and with the right photographer, you'll get them.

As a photographer who has worked with hundreds of expecting mothers of all sizes since 2010, I've developed specific techniques for posing, lighting, and styling that flatter every body type. This isn't about hiding your body—it's about showcasing the incredible thing it's doing and making you feel as beautiful as you truly are.

Why Every Body Deserves Maternity Photos

Pregnancy is a fleeting, transformative experience. Those few months when you're carrying new life are precious, and they deserve to be documented beautifully—regardless of your size. The curves, the bump, the glow—these are all part of your unique journey.

Many plus size clients tell me they initially hesitated about booking a session. But after seeing their images, they're so glad they did. One client recently told me: "I've never felt more beautiful than in these photos. You made me see myself the way my partner sees me."

Expert Posing Techniques That Flatter Every Figure

The difference between a mediocre photo and a stunning one often comes down to posing. Here's what works:

Wardrobe Tips for Plus Size Maternity Photos

What you wear makes a significant difference in your photos. Here's what photographs beautifully:

Embrace Flowing Fabrics

Tulle, chiffon, silk, and jersey fabrics drape beautifully and create movement. They skim over the body rather than clinging, and they create gorgeous motion when you walk or sway. Avoid stiff, structured pieces that can look boxy.

V-necks and Off-Shoulder Styles

These necklines elongate and flatter, drawing the eye upward to your face and down to your bump. Empire waists and A-line silhouettes also work beautifully, creating a flowing line from under the bust.

Solid Colors Photograph Best

Rich jewel tones (burgundy, emerald, navy, plum) and soft neutrals (blush, cream, mauve) photograph beautifully. Bold patterns can distract from your bump and face, so save those for everyday wear.

Don't Worry About "Maternity Sizes"

Many photographers (including us) provide studio robes that stretch and drape beautifully on all body types. For your own outfits, focus on how they fit your bump—that's what we're celebrating.

The Importance of Lighting

Lighting is everything in photography, and it's especially important for plus size maternity sessions. Professional studio lighting is fully controllable, allowing your photographer to:

• Sculpt and define your features with dimension
• Create beautiful catchlights in your eyes
• Minimize anything you're self-conscious about
• Highlight your bump as the beautiful focal point

This level of control isn't possible with natural light alone, which is why many plus size clients feel more confident with studio sessions where every light can be positioned perfectly.

Common Questions from Plus Size Clients

Will I actually look good in my photos?

Yes. An experienced photographer who has worked with clients of all sizes knows exactly how to pose you, what angles to use, and how to light your session. You'll see yourself the way others see you: strong, beautiful, and radiant.

What if I'm nervous about seeing myself in photos?

That's completely normal—you're not alone. Many clients feel this way at first. A good photographer will show you preview shots during the session so you can see how great you look in real-time. Most clients relax significantly once they see the first few images.

Will photos be retouched to make me look thinner?

Professional editing focuses on light, color, and skin smoothing (if desired)—not body reshaping. The goal is to show you as you are, which is already beautiful. You should always discuss your comfort level with retouching during your consultation.

Should I show my bare belly or stay covered?

Completely your choice. Some clients love showing their bump; others prefer draped fabric or lace overlays. Both create stunning images. Most sessions include a mix, and you choose your favorites.

What if my partner is also plus size?

An experienced photographer knows how to pose couples of all sizes to create intimate, romantic images. Your partner's embrace creates beautiful framing for your bump, and the focus is always on the love and connection between you.

What to Expect During Your Session

A professional maternity session should prioritize your comfort:

• Climate-controlled studio – No sweating under hot lights or freezing outdoors
• Private changing room – Space to change outfits in complete privacy
• Relaxed pace – Take breaks whenever you need them
• Gentle guidance – Every pose is demonstrated and adjusted for your comfort
• No judgment – Just celebration of this amazing thing your body is doing

Including Your Partner and Family

Partner and family photos often make plus size clients feel more at ease. There's something about being embraced by someone you love that creates both comfort and beautiful imagery. Your partner's hands around your belly naturally draw attention to your bump while creating intimate, romantic images.

If you have other children, including them creates precious family photos you'll treasure forever. Kids bring natural joy and movement to sessions, and their excitement about the baby creates genuine moments.