Feeling a little nervous about maternity photos? Totally normal.
Most mamas don’t walk into a session thinking, “Yes, I know exactly what to do with my hands and face.” It’s usually more like, “I’m excited… but also I feel awkward and I have no idea what to wear.” If that’s you, you’re in very good company.
This maternity session prep checklist is here to make the week leading up to your session feel calmer, not busier. No perfection required. Just a plan.
Table of Contents
What to Expect During Your Maternity Session
Think gentle guidance with plenty of breathing room. I’ll direct you when it’s helpful, and I’ll also give you space to just be in the moment. Some of the best images come from simple things like:
- Resting your hands on your belly
- Looking out a window or toward the light
- Leaning into your partner’s shoulder
- Taking a slow breath and letting your face soften
You don’t have to perform. You don’t have to “pose well.” You just have to show up.
What to Wear for Maternity Photos
Outfits matter, but not because they need to be fancy. They matter because comfort shows. If you feel restricted, itchy, or like you’re tugging at fabric every two seconds, it’s hard to relax.
1) Show off your bump (in a way that still feels like you)
A fitted dress, bodysuit, or snug top can highlight your shape beautifully. If you prefer a little more coverage, try an open layer like a button-down, robe, cardigan, or kimono. It adds dimension and movement without feeling too “done.”
2) Choose flowy pieces that move with you
Flowy dresses and skirts are maternity session gold. They move when you walk, they photograph softly, and they tend to be more forgiving when your body is changing week to week.
3) Add layers and texture
Texture gives your images depth. Knits, linen, lace, light jackets, a cozy sweater, or a scarf can make a simple outfit feel intentional. It also gives you something natural to do with your hands if you’re feeling fidgety.
4) Use my Client Wardrobe and styling service if you want it easy
If the outfit part is the thing that makes you want to reschedule, I’ve got you.
I offer a Client Wardrobe full of maternity-friendly options, plus access to my online styling tool with Style and Select to help you pull everything together. That includes help choosing pieces that flatter your bump, coordinate with your partner or kids, and fit your session location and season. You can show up knowing you look good without spending hours spiraling in your closet.
What to Bring to Your Maternity Photoshoot
You don’t need a suitcase. Just a small bag with a few smart backups.
Quick session bag list
- 1–2 outfit options (plus one backup if you’re unsure)
- Nude underwear (and black or white if your outfits need options)
- A bralette or strapless bra, depending on your looks
- Water and a small snack (pregnancy hunger is real)
- Lip balm and blotting powder
- Hair ties, clips, and a brush
- Lotion (or a non-greasy body oil) for dry skin
- Any meaningful item you want included (sonogram, baby shoes, heirloom blanket)
Hair, Makeup, and Skin Tips (Keep It Simple)
You don’t need a glam team to look amazing in your photos. If you’re doing your own makeup, aim for a slightly more polished version of your everyday.
Keep makeup soft and true to you
Natural doesn’t mean none. It just means you still look like you.
- Even out your skin (light foundation or tinted moisturizer)
- Add a little extra mascara if you love it
- Soft blush helps bring life back to your face
- Neutral lip color is always a safe win
If you’re booking professional hair and makeup, tell them you want soft, natural, and camera-friendly.
Skip spray tans and heavy self-tanner this week
This is one of those “I’m saying it because I care” tips. Spray tans can photograph orange or patchy, especially on hands, elbows, and your belly. If you do tan, keep it light and do it a few days before so it has time to settle.
Moisturize, but don’t overdo oil right before
Moisturized skin photographs beautifully. Just avoid anything super greasy right before we start, since it can reflect light and read shiny instead of glowy.
The Week-Of Maternity Session Prep Checklist
This is the part that makes the day-of feel smoother.
5–7 days before
- Try everything on from head to toe, including undergarments and shoes.
- Move around in it. Sit, walk, lift your arms, take a deep breath.
- If you’re using my Client Wardrobe, finalize your picks now so we’re not rushing.
- If you want hair or nails done, book it. Neutral nails or clean, simple hands tend to photograph best since hands are in a lot of images.
1–2 days before
- Moisturize, especially if you want any belly-out looks.
- Avoid trying anything brand new (skincare, makeup, self-tanner) if your skin is sensitive.
- Get sleep if you can. If you can’t, you’re still welcome here. We’re working with real life.
Day of
- Eat something.
- Drink water.
- Bring comfy shoes if we’re outdoors.
- Take a breath before you get out of the car.
For the mama who doesn’t feel like herself right now
If you’re in a season where your confidence comes and goes hourly, you’re not alone. Pregnancy is a lot. Your body is changing fast, you’re carrying mental load, and sometimes you’re just trying to make it to bedtime.
You don’t have to wait until you feel perfect to be photographed. You can show up as you are, and we’ll make images that feel honest and strong and really you.
If you’re planning maternity photos in Macon, Warner Robins, Perry, or anywhere in Middle Georgia, and you want support with wardrobe, styling, and the whole “what do I do with my hands?” part, reach out. I’ll help you plan it all.
