“What should I bring to my maternity photoshoot?”

After photographing many maternity sessions both in studio and outdoors, I’ve found that bringing the right items makes a huge difference in how relaxed you feel and how polished your images look.

I offer both in-studio and outdoor maternity sessions year-round, using a variety of lighting techniques and a beautiful outdoor location that works in every season. Because of this, I always help clients plan their wardrobe and preparation so their images look timeless and natural.

Here’s exactly what I recommend bringing to your maternity session.

1. 2–3 Outfit Options

Most clients bring two to three outfits to their maternity session so we can create different looks.

Some outfits that photograph beautifully include:

• Fitted jeans with the front open and a tight shirt to highlight your baby bump
• Bodysuits
• A form-fitting dress
• A flowing maternity gown

Many clients also combine outfits they bring with dresses from my studio maternity wardrobe, which includes several gowns in a variety of sizes.

This allows us to create multiple looks without you needing to purchase a lot of clothing.

2. Clothing for Your Partner

If your partner will be in the photos, I recommend bringing more than one shirt or outfit.

Having options allows them to change if needed and helps coordinate with different outfits you may wear.

Clothing that works best includes:

• Neutral t-shirts
• Button-up shirts
• Simple sweaters

Avoid clothing with logos or bright colors so the focus stays on your connection as a family.

3. Simple Outfits for Siblings

If older children will be part of the session, keep their clothing simple and neutral.

The goal of these photos is to capture connection and emotion, not have the clothing distract from the moment.

I also recommend bringing:

• Snacks
• Small activities or toys

This helps keep children happy during the session. I also have a few toys available in my studio that they are welcome to play with.

4. Sentimental Items for Baby

Some of the most meaningful maternity images include items that represent the baby you’re waiting for.

Many parents bring:

• Ultrasound photos
• A pair of baby shoes
• A special gift from a family member

These small details add a personal touch to your maternity portraits and help tell the story of this moment in your life.

5. Touch-Up Essentials

Even if you have professional hair and makeup done, it’s helpful to bring a few items for quick touch-ups.

• I recommend bringing:
• Lipstick or lip gloss
• Powder or foundation
• A hairbrush or comb

For outdoor sessions, it’s also helpful to bring water and comfortable shoes to wear between locations.

(If your session is in my studio, bottled water and drinks are always available.)

6. Skin-Tone Undergarments

One of the most common mistakes I see is wearing the wrong undergarments.

For the most flattering photos, I recommend bringing:

• A skin-tone push-up bra
• Skin-tone underwear

These work best under gowns, bodysuits, and fitted dresses.

7. Comfortable Shoes

If we are shooting outdoors or walking between spots, comfortable shoes are extremely helpful.

Many clients bring:

• Comfortable shoes for walking
• The shoes they want photographed in

This makes the experience much easier while still allowing us to create the look you want.

8. Clothing That Matches the Environment

One important detail many people overlook is making sure their clothing matches the environment.

For example:

Winter outdoor sessions photograph beautifully with sweaters or long sleeves

Cooler weather settings look more natural with clothing that fits the scenery

This helps the images feel cohesive and timeless.

9. What NOT to Bring

To keep your photos looking classic and elegant, I recommend avoiding:

• Clothing with large logos
• Bright neon colors
• Busy patterns

Simple and neutral clothing keeps the focus on you and your growing family.

10. Professional Hair and Makeup

If there’s one thing that makes the biggest difference in maternity photos, it’s having your hair and makeup professionally done.

These photos will likely be shared with family, friends, and your child someday. Looking and feeling your best helps you feel confident during your session—and that confidence always shows in your images.

My Final Preparation Tip

When in doubt, bring it with you.

Extra outfits, shoes, or sentimental items can always stay in the bag if we don’t use them. Having options available during your session simply makes things easier.

Planning Your Maternity Photos in New Hampshire

Maternity photos are a beautiful way to document this incredible chapter before your baby arrives.

If you're currently expecting and looking for a photographer, you can learn more about my maternity photography sessions here:

• Maternity Photography
• Newborn Photography

Many families choose to book both sessions so they can document the entire journey from pregnancy to baby's first portraits.