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Maternity Wardrobe Guide

What to wear for stunning maternity portraits that you'll treasure forever.

The #1 Question I Get Asked

"What should I wear for my maternity photos?"

After photographing hundreds of expecting mothers throughout Hampton Roads, I've learned exactly what works on camera and what doesn't. This guide will help you feel confident and look amazing.

We encourage you to bring your own outfits — whatever makes you feel beautiful! But if you don't have access to something special, no problem — we provide tulle maternity robes with dramatic ruffle trains as an option (color customized in post-production).

Included at No Extra Cost

Client wardrobe access.

Every maternity client has full access to our studio wardrobe at no additional cost. Here's what's available:

Maternity Robes

Flowing tulle robes with dramatic ruffle trains that create stunning movement with our wind machine. Perfect for fine art maternity portraits.

The magic: During your session, you'll wear one of our champagne or white tulle robes. Then, through Photoshop magic in post-production, we transform the color to match your vision — emerald, burgundy, gold, blush, sapphire, or virtually any color you dream of!

Champagne tulle maternity robe with ruffle train

Tulle Robe Collection

Our champagne and white tulle robes both feature dramatic ruffle trains. Whichever you wear on the day, the final color is customized in editing to suit your vision.

Champagne tulle maternity robe with ruffle train White tulle maternity robe with ruffle train

Form-Fitting Dresses

Bodycon styles that beautifully showcase your bump. Great for silhouette shots and intimate couple portraits.

Colors available: Nude, white, black, earth tones

Accessories

Flower crowns, veils, wings, fabric swatches for draping, and more. We discuss options during your consultation.

Sizes: XL to 3XL in most styles

Dress for the Setting

Studio vs. outdoor: what works best.

For Studio Sessions

  • Best choices: Flowing robes, sheer materials, bold colors
  • Why it works: We control lighting and use wind machines to create dramatic fabric movement
  • Top colors: Deep jewel tones (emerald, burgundy, sapphire), gold, white
  • Avoid: Busy patterns, logos, neon colors
  • Pro tip: Bring 2-3 options and we'll decide together what works best with the lighting setup

For Beach/Outdoor Sessions

  • Best choices: Light, airy fabrics that catch the breeze naturally
  • Why it works: Natural wind creates organic movement; sun backlighting looks ethereal
  • Top colors: White, cream, soft pastels, earth tones that complement nature
  • Avoid: Heavy fabrics that don't move, bright white (can blow out in sun)
  • Pro tip: Bring a long slip or nude undergarments for sheer fabrics in outdoor light

Palette Recommendations

Colors that photograph best.

Always Stunning

Jewel tones: Emerald, sapphire, ruby, amethyst, gold. These rich colors photograph beautifully in any lighting and add a luxurious feel to portraits.

Earth tones: Terracotta, sage, dusty rose, cream, camel. Perfect for a soft, natural aesthetic especially outdoors.

Neutrals: Black, white, nude, gray. Timeless and elegant, keeps the focus on you and your bump.

Use With Caution

Bright white: Can blow out in bright light. Works great in studio with controlled lighting.

Red: Gorgeous but reflects onto skin. Best in small amounts or deeper burgundy tones.

Neon/fluorescent: Reflects unflattering color onto skin and rarely looks natural.

Skip These

Busy patterns: Stripes, florals, and logos distract from your beautiful bump.

Character prints: Date your photos and draw attention away from you.

Coordinate the Whole Crew

Partner & family outfit tips.

For Partners

  • Coordinate, don't match: Choose complementary colors, not identical outfits
  • Solid colors: No logos, minimal patterns
  • Classic choices: White button-down, black t-shirt, neutral pants
  • Shirtless: Absolutely welcome for intimate shots if you're comfortable

For Siblings/Kids

  • Keep it simple: Solid colors that complement mom's outfit
  • Comfort first: Kids photograph best when they're comfortable
  • Backup outfit: Bring a spare in case of spills or stains

Before You Pack

Quick checklist.

  • Bring 2-3 outfit options (we'll choose together)
  • Nude, seamless undergarments for form-fitting looks
  • Strapless bra or sticky bra for off-shoulder styles
  • Comfortable shoes to wear between shots
  • Hair ties and pins (for changing looks mid-session)
  • Touch-up makeup if desired
  • Snacks and water (baby gets hungry!)

Last updated: February 2026

Ready When You Are

Still have questions?

Every session includes a pre-shoot consultation where we discuss wardrobe, locations, and your vision. I'll help you plan everything!

Studio $750 | On-Location $900 | Wardrobe access included

Book Your Session Call 757-759-8454

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