what to wear: maternity session
Sunday, July 24th, 2022
One wildly popular question I get asked before any shoot … but, what do we wear?!
As someone who creates a detailed outfit list before any vacation, I deeply understand these desires to look your best and plan ahead. Eventually, I will be doing a post dedicated to each type of shoot and first up, one of my favourite shoots of all- maternity!
During a shoot, you will have the opportunity for two, maybe even three outfits in total. I do recommend taking advantage of this, not only to incorporate more of your favourite outfits, but also to give some variety to your final images. Most of the women I shoot do not wear maternity items per se, and judging by my own closet of flowing floral dresses, I understand how. I have compiled my favourite options below, but no matter what you choose to wear, my advice always reverts back to comfort- your outfit should allow you to move, to walk with your partner, to lay down and close your eyes, feeling the soft kicks inside. This shoot is also a celebration, and what better way to honour the body than allowing it to just be.
1) The Flowing Dress
Given my overall aesthetic and life ethos, it is hardly surprising that this is the first option (and likely my favourite). The flowing dress, made out of soft cotton or linen, falling over the curves of the body in a delicate drape. It is flattering, beautifully timeless and the perfect way to romanticize this chapter. Opt for soft neutrals, pastels, a classic white … or maybe even a floral print to make this photographer’s photo dreams come true.
2) The Form-Fitting Dress
A dress that we avoided during all other times of adult life- the form-fitting, or “body-con” dress. It is truly perfect for showing off the bump, and particularly awesome for silhouette portraits, and more minimal portraits taken at a distance. I personally love this look in combination with something a bit more flowy to have the best of both worlds.
3) The Slip Dress
Another romantic option I love! The way the silk falls along the body, sensuously kissing each curve. Magic. And quite frankly, pretty sexy. Pair it with a draped cardigan and some amazing jewellery to complete the look.
4) The White Shirt
Hello, old friend. The classic white shirt- something we all have in our wardrobes already, or better yet, borrow his for an oversized look. I love this undone completely, tied up, buttoned strategically for some coverage, you name it.
5) The Robe
The robe, the shawl, the kimono, the cardigan- a layering piece worn about a hundred different ways. Pair it with a form-fitting dress or a slip dress as an easy way to “switch” your outfit without even changing. Or, layer it over your underwear to add some coverage, while still showing off your shape. It is easy, lightweight and so flattering in the way it delicately covers.
6) … Nothing!
The final option… and one that truthfully, I hope more women choose! I get it- it is innately uncomfortable to have a woman with a camera come into your home and photograph you at your most bare. Totally strange. BUT, I promise you, you are in good hands. I will honour your best angles, find some ease in the situation and help you feel your most beautiful. One of my clients even told me afterwards that her nude portraits were some of her favourite of the whole shoot! And in the end, to quote the legendary Moira Rose, “Take a thousand naked pictures of yourself now. One day you will look at those photos with much kinder eyes”.
Well, I am the kinder eyes taking your photo today, and I can’t wait to document this chapter for you.