What to Wear to Your Maternity Photoshoot in Manchester
- Monika Szmidt
- Apr 8
- 5 min read
A complete guide for expectant mothers in Manchester | Monika Szmidt Photography
Planning your maternity photoshoot and wondering what to wear?
You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions I get from my Manchester clients. Choosing what to wear to your maternity photoshoot is one of the most exciting — and sometimes most stressful — parts of planning your session.
The right outfit can completely transform your photos, helping you feel confident, comfortable, and truly beautiful during this special moment in your life.
In this guide, I’ll share simple, expert tips on what to wear to your maternity photoshoot — so your images feel timeless, elegant, and uniquely you.
Why your outfit choice matters
Your maternity photos will be something you return to for years. The right outfit draws the eye to your bump, flatters your shape, and creates a timeless image that doesn’t feel dated in a decade. The wrong choice can be distracting, unflattering, or simply feel unlike you — and that shows in photos.
The good news is that there are no strict rules. What works is whatever makes you feel radiant on the day.
Colours that photograph beautifully
Some colours are simply more forgiving and flattering on camera than others.
Colours to choose
Soft neutrals — cream, ivory, blush, warm white, champagne
Earth tones — terracotta, sage, dusty rose, warm taupe
Deep, rich tones — red, burgundy, forest green, navy, chocolate brown
Soft pastels — pale lilac, soft peach, powder blue
Colours to approach with caution
Bright neon shades — they can cast colour onto your skin in studio lighting
Very busy patterns — bold stripes or large prints pull focus from your bump
Head-to-toe white against a white studio backdrop — you can disappear into the background
If you’re shooting outdoors in Manchester — in a park, woodland, or urban setting — earthy and muted tones tend to sit beautifully against natural backdrops. In the studio, almost any of the above neutrals work wonderfully.
The best fabrics for maternity photoshoot
Fabric choice affects how your images feel as much as how they look.
Flowing chiffon, silk, or satin — creates movement and drama, especially for outdoor shoots
Jersey and soft knit — hugs the bump gently without being tight
Lace — adds texture and femininity, particularly in studio settings
Stretchy velvet — rich, luxurious, and photographs with depth
Avoid: stiff fabrics like denim or structured blazers, which can look rigid and make posing uncomfortable. Also avoid fabrics that crease heavily, as wrinkles become very visible in photos.
Outfit styles that work well
You don’t need to invest in anything new unless you want to. Many of the most beautiful maternity photos are taken in outfits the mother already owned and loved.
Fitted styles
A form-fitting dress or bodysuit clearly celebrates the bump silhouette. You don’t need to be fully covered — many mothers choose to show their bare bump, which creates some of the most timeless and intimate maternity portraits.
Flowing gowns
Long, flowing gowns are a perennial favourite for maternity sessions. They create movement, elegance, and a sense of occasion. Many maternity photographers, including myself, keep a selection of gowns available to borrow — so you don’t need to source one yourself.
Casual and lifestyle
If a relaxed, natural shoot feels more you, consider soft leggings, an oversized knit cardigan, or your partner’s shirt. Lifestyle maternity sessions taken at home lend themselves beautifully to everyday clothing that reflects your real life.
Two outfits
For longer sessions, many mothers choose two looks: one more dressed-up (a gown or elegant dress) and one more relaxed or intimate (a fitted bodysuit or bare bump look). This gives your gallery variety and lets you use the photos in different ways.
What to wear on your bump
One of the most popular choices for maternity photography is to show the bare bump — either fully or partially. This is completely your choice and always 100% optional.
If you’d prefer to keep your bump covered, a fitted dress or a fabric wrap can still beautifully reveal the shape without any skin. Many mothers feel more comfortable with this option and the results are just as stunning.
Coordinating with your partner and children
If your partner or existing children are joining the session, coordinating outfits — without matching exactly — creates a cohesive, polished look in the final images.
Choose a colour palette rather than identical outfits
Neutral tones work well for everyone: navy, grey, white, cream, blush
Avoid logos, bold slogans, or heavy patterns on any family members
Soft, casual clothing works beautifully for relaxed family maternity sessions
Hair and makeup
There are no rules here either — it’s entirely your preference. Some mothers prefer a full glam look; others want to look like themselves on their best day. Both are equally beautiful in photographs.
A few practical tips
Loose waves or soft updos tend to photograph very well
Heavy or very dark lip colours can distract from your expression — unless that’s your style
Natural, dewy skin tends to photograph more flatteringly than very matte or heavy coverage
If you’re doing your own makeup, apply it slightly more defined than usual — cameras soften everything slightly
If you’d like professional hair and makeup for your session, I’m happy to recommend trusted artists in Manchester who work regularly with maternity clients.
👉 Check maternity photoshoot packages
Jewellery and accessories
Keep accessories simple and meaningful. A delicate necklace, small earrings, or a meaningful piece of jewellery photographs beautifully. Large, bold accessories can sometimes distract from the bump and your expression.
If you have a piece with sentimental value — an heirloom, a gift from your partner, or something connected to the baby — this is a lovely detail to incorporate into your session.
What NOT to wear
A few things that can work against you in photos:
Tight waistbands or shapewear that leaves marks on the skin — these take time to fade
New shoes you haven’t broken in — comfort matters during a longer session
Anything you feel self-conscious in — discomfort always shows in images
Heavily branded or logoed items — they date the photos and distract the eye
Very sheer fabrics without a lining — studio lighting can make these unexpectedly see-through
When to get dressed
Arrive already dressed in your first outfit if possible, with the second in a bag. Give yourself plenty of time at home so you’re not rushing — arriving relaxed makes a real difference to how you feel in front of the camera.
Tip: Avoid wearing tight waistbands or straps for at least an hour before the session, as the marks they leave on the skin can take time to fade.
Not sure what to wear? I’m here to help
Choosing your maternity photoshoot outfit doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Once you’ve booked your session, I’ll send you a full style guide tailored to your shoot location and session type. I also keep a selection of gowns and fabrics available in the studio for you to use, completely complimentary.
The most important thing is that you feel like yourself. When you’re comfortable and confident, it shows in every single image.
Ready to book your maternity photoshoot in Manchester?
I offer relaxed, elegant maternity photography sessions in my Manchester studio and at outdoor locations across the city. Whether you want flowing gowns and dramatic lighting or a natural, lifestyle session at home, we’ll create something truly personal to you.
Get in touch to check availability and start planning your session.
FAQ
What should I wear for a maternity photoshoot?
Choose fitted or flowing dresses in neutral or soft colours that highlight your bump and feel comfortable.
When is the best time for a maternity photoshoot?
Between 28–34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully visible but you’re still comfortable.
Can my partner join the photoshoot?
Yes — and coordinating outfits creates a beautiful, cohesive look.
Tags: maternity photographer Manchester · pregnancy photoshoot Manchester · maternity photography outfits · what to wear maternity photoshoot · studio maternity photography
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