8 Tips on What to Wear for Maternity Photos in the Bay Area

Maternity photography is a special way to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a new member of the family! And one of the most important aspects of this type of photography is choosing the perfect outfit. The right outfit can make all the difference in how you look and feel in your maternity photos. If you’re looking for some inspiration on what to wear for your maternity photos in the Bay Area, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’ll share some tips and ideas for the perfect maternity session outfit so that you can create beautiful and timeless memories of this special time in your life.

Whether you’re planning a photoshoot in the city, by the beach, or in the mountains, choosing the right outfit is key to looking and feeling your best in your photos. The right outfit can also complement the location and theme of your photoshoot, making your images look cohesive and professional. By taking the time to carefully choose your outfit for your maternity photoshoot, you can ensure that you create images that capture the essence of a beautiful session. Trying to figure out what to wear for your maternity photos? I’ll discuss all the best tips in this blog post on what to wear for your maternity photos in the Bay Area!

Comfort & Colors

1. Comfortable yet Stylish

When it comes to maternity photoshoots, comfort should be one of your top priorities. After all, you want to feel at ease and confident during the shoot. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for comfort. Choose an outfit that is both comfortable and stylish. Look for stretchy, breathable fabrics that will move with your body and won’t make you feel constricted. Loose-fitting dresses, skirts, and tops are a great option. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles or colors to find what works best for you!

2. Solid Colors

When it comes to maternity photography, solid colors work best. Solid colors are timeless and classic, and they won’t distract from the star of the show: your baby bump. Opt for colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. Neutral colors like beige, cream, white, and taupe are always a safe choice. However, you can also choose to add a pop of color with a sage green or dusty blue dress. Feeling a little feminine and fancy? Add a sparkly dress that’ll illuminate your pregnancy glow!

Patterns & Textures

3. Patterns and Prints

While solid colors work best, patterns and prints can add some interest and texture to your maternity photos. If you do choose to wear patterns or prints, keep it simple. Choose a pattern that is not too busy or distracting. For example, a simple floral or striped pattern can work well. Just remember that the focus should still be on you and your baby bump, not your outfit.

4. Layers

Layers can add depth and dimension to your maternity photos. They can also be practical if you’re shooting outdoors and the weather is unpredictable. Layer a chunky textured cardigan over a dress, or wear a denim jacket over a dress. You can also wear a statement necklace or add a few bracelets to add some interest to your outfit. Just make sure that your layers don’t add bulk to your frame and hide your baby bump.

5. Texture

Texture can add some visual interest to your maternity photos. Look for fabrics with texture, like lace, crochet, or embroidery. You can also wear accessories with texture, like a chunky knit cardigan or wool hat. Just like with patterns and prints, make sure that the texture doesn’t overwhelm your outfit or distract from your baby bump.

All Accessories

6. Accessorize

Accessories can add some personality and style to your maternity photos. Wear a statement necklace or earrings to draw attention to your face. A belted dress can accentuate your baby bump and give your outfit some shape. You can also wear a hat or a headband for a boho-chic vibe. Just remember to keep it simple and not to overdo it with the accessories.

7. Shoes

When it comes to shoes, comfort should be your top priority. You don’t want to be in pain during your maternity photoshoot. Opt for comfortable flats or low heels. If you’re shooting outdoors, you can wear booties or sandals, depending on the weather. Just make sure that your shoes complement your outfit and don’t clash with it.

8. Golden Hour

The Bay Area is known for its beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views, and the jaw-dropping beauty that golden hour brings along with it! If you’re planning an outdoor maternity photoshoot, consider scheduling it during the golden hour. The golden hour is the hour that all the magic happens! When choosing colors to wear for your maternity session, keep in mind how the golden hour light will reflect off the chosen colors.

Choosing what to wear for your maternity photoshoot in the Bay Area can seem daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can create stunning and memorable images. Consider the location, weather, and theme of your photoshoot when selecting your outfit, and remember to prioritize comfort and confidence. 

Solid colors, classic silhouettes, and natural fabrics are always a safe bet, and accessories like scarves and hats can add texture and interest to your outfit. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose an outfit that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable, so that you can fully embrace this special time in your life and create photos that you will cherish for years to come!

Wondering how a San Francisco maternity session will look like? Check out my most recent maternity blog post to see the magic we can create! If you are looking for a maternity photographer in San Francisco, be sure to check out my portfolio and contact me today to discuss your ideal maternity session! Also be sure to follow me on Instagram to see my latest work!