EriePics™ an Erie Photography™ Studio – Professional Photographers

The Ideal Maternity Photo Shoot Outfits

Most pregnant women want maternity pictures taken to remember this special time in their lives. What to wear for your maternity photo session can be a daunting task. You want to look your best and feel comfortable too. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect outfit for your maternity pictures.

Dress for Comfort

Before we go over any other advice on outfits for your Maternity Pictures this step is the KEY. Always dress for comfort. This means not buying an outfit online that you can’t try on before your shoot. If you buy online get it earlier enough to make sure you can return it or buy another outfit if needed. If the outfit doesn’t fit and feel right you’ll be noticeably uncomfortable during your photos. 

In addition, dressing comfortably means dressing for the weather. Winter and Fall Maternity Pictures are beautiful, but you need to make sure you’re wearing appropriate clothing. A fuzzy sweater or cardigan, a beanie and warm footwear will keep you happy. In spring and summer choose outfits that allow you to feel the soft breeze without overheating.

Choose the Perfect Colors

After you’ve figured out When to Take Your Maternity Photos and Where to have your Maternity Photo Shoot, you can better decide What to Wear. (See those link? That’s right! More help to plan the best shoot ever!) First thing you’ll need to consider is the season of the year you’re taking pictures. Try using colors that compliment the season. But, at the same time you don’t want to blend into the environment. So, next you’ll consider the location. It’s not the best idea to wear dark brown or green if you’re taking photos in a wooded area even if it is the fall. Think more vivid reds or purples. And if you’re outside in the snow you don’t want to disappear like an arctic bunny so avoid whites and creams. Lean more towards greens, reds, and blues. Blues in winter can make a really dreamy looking collection. 

Too Pattern or not too Pattern?

I’m not even going to beat around the bush on this one. Should you wear a patterned outfits during your maternity pictures? The answer is a resounding NO! 

To begin with, it’s a basic photography rule to avoid patterns during photo shoots. Patterns can wreak havoc on your final images by causing distractions and weird visual effects that you’d rather avoid. And no amount of photo shop can fix some of those issues. Also, patterns are easy to clash. Fall photos are notorious for this problem with 5 people all wearing differnt patterns of plaid. It’s not cute. Also, patterns can date your images while solids are classy and stand the test of time. 

This is even more true for expectant moms. I made this mistake at my own baby shower and I’ll never stop regretting looking like a clown in the photos. Patterns are not flattering on your baby bump. Solid colors have a way of showcasing your round belly in an elegant way you’ll appreciate later. 

Show ’em What You Got

The final piece of advice I have for you during Maternity Pictures is to show off what you got! You heard me right. Avoid droopy or saggy outfits or loose hanging maxi dresses that don’t accentuate your baby bump. You’re taking these photos to document a milestone moment in your story. You don’t want to wear a bulky sweater or top that hides what you’re excited about. Most maternity dresses for photo shoots are made specifically to showcase that belly. Browse Amazon and communicate with your photographer before making a purchase. They’ll be able to tell you if the outfit you chose will work well for your shoot. 

In conclusion, when it comes to maternity pictures, it is important to feel comfortable in what you are wearing. You should choose something that makes you feel pretty and confident. If you are not sure about what to wear, ask for help from your photographer. They have the experience and knowledge to help you pick an outfit in the right colors for your location and season. Lastly, have fun with your maternity pictures and enjoy this special time in your life!

Begin Planning Your Photo Shoot

Now that you know What to Wear during Maternity Pictures you can reach out to schedule your session! Our In House Coordinator will talk with you about your due date and what inspires you to schedule a shoot that’s as unique as your story is. Just fill in the following form and we’ll reach out shortly!

Book Erie Photography, Photographer Services for Your Wedding or Next Event.

Erie Photography™

Wedding & Event Planning
Disc Jockey | Erie Photography | Photo Booth Rentals | Videography
1001 State Street, Suite 1400, Erie, PA 16501
814.631.5495 | info@erie-photography.com

Where to Take Maternity Photos?

Maternity photography is a popular way to capture the beauty of expecting mothers. As you plan your maternity photo shoot, you may be wondering where is the best location to capture these special memories? It’s first important to consider When You Will Take Maternity Photos. (There are some tips in that article.) That’s because the time of year may effect your final decision. But, here are five great locations for your maternity photo shoot to get you inspired!

The Beach or Lakefront

This is almost a no-brainer for those of us living in Erie, Ashtabula, or Chautauqua Counties on Lake Erie. The lake is a huge focal point of our lives. It’s the backdrop of so many moments day to day. 

The shoreline is the perfect location during any season as well. During every season there are gorgeous sunsets over the water. In the summer you can go barefoot in the sand. In the fall find a lake cliff sprinkled with vivid leaves. In the winter the frozen lake looks mysterious and awe inspiring. Finally, in the spring life is blooming all around the water with soft petals and butterflies. Just remember that no matter which season you shoot in to dress appropriately for the weather. The fall and winter seasons on the lake are windy and chilly. And in the summer the sun can be harsh. 

No matter what season you take schedule your Maternity Photo Shoot the lake is an ideal setting for you. It’s one of our favorite locations to shoot at and that’s why I listed it first.

A Park or Arboretum

I say Park and I know you Erie-ites think Frontier Park. Heck, I say Arboretum and you think Frontier Park. If you’re like me this park is a monumental part of your childhood. My school used to walk us over there weekly for activities and study. And, it is such an ideal place for a maternity photo shoot. It’s one of the most popular photography places in Erie County. With lush sprawling lawns, a creek, and gorgeous trees it’s beautiful every season. 

Frontier Park isn’t the only outdoor park area that is a beautiful backdrop. Consider Asbury Woods where we took the image adjacent to this. Fields of wildflowers were so awe-inspiring. We loved it so much after this maternity photo shoot that we returned for some family photos later on. 

Another hidden gem is McClelland Park in the Wesleyville area. While Frontier & Asbury are popular locations that may be crowded, McClelland is hidden away not far off of 38th Street. It’s perfect for some quiet moments. And you may meet a few friendly puppies. 

Your Wedding Venue

I know this one will make you sit up and take notice. But this is one of the most unique places for a maternity photo shoot that I can think of. I’d like to say I came up with it on my own, but I’m not sure. 

However, if you chose any of the amazing local venues we have near us you’d be amiss to skip this opportunity. Venues like Majestic Woods, Mound Grove, Lakeshore Vineyards, Quincy Cellars, and Whispering Trees all have breathe taking backdrops for a maternity photo shoot. In addition, you’ll be documenting your journey together in a place that’s embedded in your story. 

The most important thing to remember when planning your maternity pictures at your wedding venue is that you need permission from the owners. You’ll have to verify that they don’t have any events booked the day you’d like to shoot. Also, for insurances reasons many venues do have a small fee associated with photo shoots happening on their property. This helps protect you in case of injury or accident while at their location. It’s always best to be respectful and ask. 

At Your Home

What better way to capture this magical part of your journey than with a Lifestyle Maternity Photo Shoot. A lifestyle shoot basically means ‘captured in real life’. Invite your photographer into your home to capture you putting the nursery together. Imagine the memories you’ll be able to look back on. Your family will cherish being able to peer into this intimate and beautiful bonding time. In addition, years later you can share how much you already loved your child by going through these images together. 

Another reason a ‘Homestead’ Session is great, is that you’re completely comfortable in your own surroundings. There is no time period that you have to settle in to a location you don’t normally spend time in. And most of us love our homes. We’ve decorated it the way we want and it expresses who we are elegantly. It’s one of the best ways to freeze this moment in time and preserve it for future generations. I highly suggest this type of shoot if you’re introverted or uncomfortable in a public location so you can better enjoy your session. 

A Portrait Studio

I decided to include this option because I’ve had a few brides tell me “I’m an indoor girl.” when we’ve planned their engagement and wedding photos. It makes sense to me that not everyone relishes spending time outside. And, if you’re not an outdoor enthusiast it would be odd for you to capture your milestone moments outside. 

There is nothing wrong with an indoor or studio Maternity Photo Shoot. In fact, there can be some perks! In the photo adjacent we were able to set a light up behind the backdrop to create a neat lighting effect to show off this mom-to-be’s belly. We would never have been able to pull this shot off outdoors. But being inside a studio allowed us to use tools not available at a location shoot. 

Studio Maternity Photos Shoots may be more Editorial in style. That means you’ll look and feel more like a supermodel with a polished, sharp look than an outdoor session. In addition, many studios provide a selection of indoor backdrops, props, and sometimes even outfits you can use for your photos.

In conclusion, maternity photo shoots are a great way to capture this special time in your life. If you’re looking for some inspiration, consider one of the five locations mentioned in this article. Not only will you have beautiful photos to remember this time by, but you’ll also have some amazing memories of your time spent in these special places.

Begin Planning Your Photo Shoot

Now that you have a better idea on where you’d like to have your Maternity Photo Shoot we encourage you to reach out and set up a time to chat with us. We can’t wait to capture this milestone moment in your journey. 

Book Erie Photography, Photographer Services for Your Wedding or Next Event.

Erie Photography™

Wedding & Event Planning
Disc Jockey | Erie Photography | Photo Booth Rentals | Videography
1001 State Street, Suite 1400, Erie, PA 16501
814.246.2148 | info@erie-photography.com