Baby bump making its grand debut? Check. Closet down to two rotating outfits? Double-check. If pregnancy has turned every mirror into a pregnancy progress report, it’s probably time to celebrate the glow with a photoshoot. Gorgeous professional snapshots, whether lacy boudoir in Del Mar, black-and-white maternity photography with a timeless charm, or something completely unique, can only shine when styling, timing, and your mindset align.
The camera only sees what you’re feeling, so the real mission is to feel pampered, powerful, and fully yourself. Wondering what you can do to make sure you look and feel your best in maternity photos? Let’s dive into the tricks that make that happen.
How do I look good in maternity photos?
Looking good is easy once you feel good, and feeling good is a recipe of smart planning plus a dash of self-love. The six tips below aren’t your generic “drink water, sleep lots” reminders, they’re field-tested nuggets that every mama should know before stepping into a photography studio. Let’s go!
1. Book for that “sweet-spot” window
Aim for weeks 28–34: your bump looks great, but you can still arch, twist, and get off a stool without a three-person rescue. Schedule the shoot for when you usually have the most energy (skip the 3 p.m. slump). In the studio, take mini breathing breaks to stay relaxed and avoid that stiff, forced smile no filter can fix. As maternity photography has grown in popularity, moms-to-be have realized just how much of a difference the right timing makes.
2. Dress the bump with intention, not clutter
Choose two or three looks: one fitted (like a body-con dress or bodysuit), one soft and flowy (a lace robe or chiffon wrap), and – if you’re up for it – a simple bare-bump option, like unbuttoned jeans. Stick to solids or soft tones, as bold prints compete with your curves. Timeless colors work especially well for black-and-white maternity photos, where texture and emotion take center stage. Remember: wear what feels good because comfort always shows on camera.
3. Practice to move like the queen you are
Maternity photos carry a lot of emotional weight. Your photographer knows that, so you can trust that they’ll guide you through poses and keep you feeling comfortable every step of the way. Still, there’s no harm in trying a few bump-flattering poses ahead of time: a soft hip tilt with one knee bent to lengthen your legs, or hands placed high and low on your belly for that sweet “heart” shape. A little practice can boost your confidence and help you feel more at ease!
4. Create a cozy, feel-good essentials set
A plush robe between sets, cushy slippers, your favorite playlist, and snacks you genuinely crave (salt-and-vinegar chips + sparkling water, anyone?) keep blood sugar and mood steady. Toss a small pillow behind the lower back for seated poses and have ice-cold water within reach. When a mom-to-be feels cared for, shoulders drop, eyes soften, and the lens records calm confidence instead of “just powering through.”
5. Invite a tiny-but-mighty hype squad
One partner, sister, or bestie who fixes straps, smooths fly-aways, and shouts “Yasss, mama!” beats a roomful of onlookers that might crank up self-consciousness. Choose someone who respects the boudoir vibe if you’re going lingerie-bold, or happily steps aside when you need solo focus. Their encouragement plus your own inner pep talk (“I made a human, I can rock this pose”) is the winning combo that lights up every shot.
Who in Del Mar specializes in black & white and other maternity photography?
Did hikes along the trail at Crest Canyon Preserve used to feel relaxing, and now you’re out of breath halfway in? Or maybe that go-to dress that always made you feel unstoppable just doesn’t fit the same anymore? Well, pregnancy shifts everything. Some days you feel like a goddess, and others you’re just proud you made it through the day. That’s exactly why your maternity photos should meet you where you are: strong, beautiful, and real.
At Portraits by Z, we specialize in capturing the version of you that deserves to be celebrated, whether you want soft studio portraits, something intimate and boudoir-inspired, or a mix of both. From the first outfit to the final pose, we guide you with care so you don’t just look amazing, you feel it, too.
Let’s create something unforgettable together. Reach out today to book your session.