One of the biggest questions before a session is: what should I wear for maternity photos?
The good news — you don’t need a complicated wardrobe. The most beautiful maternity images come from simple, soft styling that lets your shape and connection shine.
Keep it simple and timeless
The best maternity outfits are usually the simplest ones.
- soft, neutral colours
- flowing fabrics
- minimal patterns
- clean, uncluttered styling
This keeps the focus on you — not the outfit.
Maternity gowns vs your own outfits
Studio gowns
At Photo Hive, we provide gowns and fabrics designed specifically for maternity photography.
- flowing silhouettes that highlight your bump
- soft textures that photograph beautifully
- colours chosen to suit studio lighting
Your own clothing
You’re welcome to bring your own outfits too.
Great options include:
- fitted dresses that show your shape
- soft knitwear or oversized shirts
- simple underwear or bodysuits for minimal looks
Best colours for maternity photos
Certain colours photograph more softly and timelessly.
- creams and whites
- beige and warm neutrals
- soft pastels
- earthy tones
Try to avoid:
- bright neon colours
- large logos or graphics
- busy patterns
What should partners and children wear?
If your partner or children are joining, keep their outfits simple and coordinated — not matching exactly.
- neutral tones that complement your outfit
- no bold prints or logos
- soft textures and natural fabrics
This keeps the focus on connection rather than clothing.
What to wear underneath
For the best results, we recommend:
- nude or neutral underwear
- strapless bras if possible
- seamless options to avoid lines
This gives you flexibility with gowns and fabrics during the session.
Do I need to plan everything in advance?
No — we guide you through everything.
Your session is designed to feel relaxed, and we’ll help you choose styling that works beautifully on camera.
If you haven’t already, you can read our guide on when to book maternity photos to help plan your session timing.
Ready to plan your maternity session?
If you’re expecting, now is the perfect time to plan your session and create something meaningful before your baby arrives.