I get asked for advice on what to wear to a maternity photo shoot more often than any other type of photo session. As a photographer, I feel obliged to give advice: the way you are dressed affects the impression that a final image makes. A well-planned photo session produces stunning images that can become not only memories, but also a work of art. As a woman and a mother of three beautiful children, I know how important it is to know that you look your best and are able to show off the beauty of your pregnancy. I also know that pregnancy is just a beginning of a new exciting life, and going back to memories of that beautiful beginning just ought to bring lots of joy and pleasure. So, let see what YOU can do to help me make the best and visually pleasing images of YOU.

1. The key is to aim for slim fit and avoid bulky look, even if you are not going to wear anything with a defined waist.
2. Think coordinate, not match! It’s very important not to come dressed head to toe in the same color clothes. Contrasts are always visually attractive, such as white shirt and black/blue jeans.
3. Solids are always better than busy patterns. Busy prints create a lot of visual noise.
4. Form fitted tops are the best! Pair it with a flowing skirt and you have a perfect combination.
5. Empire waist dresses make stunning pictures (make sure the dress is not too voluminous and loose). However, if you are not comfortable with this style, don’t wear it just for the photo shoot.
6. Add texture by wearing sweater over fitting tops. A top has to be fitted! If both top and sweater are bulky, well… you can guess what the image will look like. A sweater can be pulled back to accentuate that beautiful belly, and it also gives us two different looks in one photo shoot without any major effort of changing the whole outfit!
7. And my personal favorite – accessorize! Use beads, bracelets, rings – anything that make you feel special, beautiful and stylish. Maternity session is all about close ups, so use those details to show your personality and femininity.
8. Your hands are going to be in a lot of shots, so make sure your manicure is done exactly the way you like it.
9. Very slinky fabrics are not desirable.
10. If you are going to wear a short dress or a short skirt, wear leggings or high boots. High heals would add style, but… this is probably the only advice of my own that I would not want to follow.
11.  Bring your own props if there is something that brings special emotions or sentiments.
12. If you want to show off your belly, wear layers, such as black or white lingerie and a button down shirt.  And please let me know before the photo session, so we can spend enough time on this particular type of images.  

Most importantly, just be yourself and enjoy every moment of creating beautiful memories of this very special time of your life.