What to Wear for Your Lehigh Valley Maternity Photo Session

Planning your maternity photos is such an exciting part of this season, and one of the biggest questions I get as a Lehigh Valley maternity photographer is: what should I wear?

The right outfit doesn’t just look beautiful in photos. It helps you feel confident, comfortable, and truly like yourself—which always shows in your final images.

Whether you’re planning outdoor Lehigh Valley maternity photos or Bethlehem studio maternity photos, here’s everything I guide my clients through when choosing what to wear.

Start with Mom’s Outfit First

The focus of your session is your growing baby and this incredible season of life.

That means mom’s outfit always comes first.

I always recommend starting with a dress you feel:

• Comfortable in

• Confident in

• Beautiful in

From there, you can coordinate everyone else around your look.

A long, flowy or fitted dress works beautifully because it:

• Highlights your baby bump

• Moves naturally for soft, flattering images

• Keeps the attention exactly where it should be

Choose Colors That Match the Season

Color plays a huge role in how your photos feel. The goal is to complement the environment—not compete with it.

Here’s what I typically recommend throughout the year in the Lehigh Valley:

Spring: Muted pinks, soft purples, pastel blues and greens, creams, whites, neutrals, and navy

Early Summer: Soft blues, greens, muted reds and purples, warm yellows, creams, and earth tones

Late Summer: Sage, dusty blue, terracotta, navy, cream, and earthy neutrals

Fall: Rust, burnt orange, golden yellow, forest green, deep blues, creams, browns, and warm neutrals

Winter:Evergreen, cranberry, navy, brown, cream, white, and warm neutrals

Avoid overly bright colors that clash with your surroundings or reflect unwanted tones onto your skin.

Keep It Simple and Timeless

When it comes to patterns and fabrics, simple always wins.

For mom:

• Fitted or flowy dresses photograph beautifully

• Soft fabrics add movement and dimension

For dad:

• A button-down shirt (untucked) with jeans or casual pants

• Clean, neutral, effortless look

For children:

• Comfort is key

• Outfits that stay in place (nothing constantly needing adjustment)

• Make sure diapers are covered

Timeless outfits ensure your photos still feel beautiful years from now.

Coordinate—Don’t Match

One of the biggest styling tips I give clients is this:

Coordinate, don’t match.

Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color:

• Choose 2 main colors

• Build with shades and neutrals around them

This creates a cohesive look without feeling overly styled or forced.

Don’t Overlook Undergarments

This is one of the most overlooked details—and one of the most important.

Wearing properly fitting undergarments:

• Improves how your dress fits

• Creates a smoother, more flattering silhouette

• Helps you feel more confident overall

It truly makes a difference in your final images.

Shoes and Accessories Matter More Than You Think

Keep footwear simple and neutral:

• Avoid logos or anything that draws attention

• Choose tones that blend with your outfit

For outdoor sessions:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes

• Change into your photo shoes at each spot

For kids:

• Comfortable shoes are always best

Accessories should complement your look, not overpower it.

Studio vs. Outdoor: What to Consider

If you’re deciding between outdoor or Bethlehem studio maternity photos, your outfit may play a role.

Studio sessions are perfect if:

• You don’t want to worry about weather

• You’re feeling tired and want a more relaxed experience

• You’re including younger siblings (especially under 3)

• You love clean, timeless backdrops

Outdoor sessions are ideal if:

• You love natural scenery

• You want seasonal color and texture

• Gives more variety in the look of your session

Both options photograph beautifully—it just depends on what feels right for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve seen a few things that can take away from otherwise beautiful images:

• Bright colors that clash with the setting

• Head-to-toe black, which can lose detail in photos

• Uncomfortable shoes for outdoor sessions

• Outfits that require constant adjusting

Keeping things simple and intentional always leads to the best results.

You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

Every client I work with receives:

• A detailed session guide

• A style guide with outfit inspiration

• Links to my favorite online shops

I’m also always happy to look at outfit options and help you decide what will photograph best.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing to remember is this:

When you feel good, you look good.

Your maternity session isn’t about perfect outfits—it’s about capturing this moment before everything changes.

If you’re looking for a Bethlehem maternity photographer or planning your Lehigh Valley maternity photos, I’d love to help guide you every step of the way—from planning your session to choosing the perfect outfit.

Ready to start planning your Lehigh Valley maternity session?

Reach out and let’s create something beautiful together.

Check out Maternity Packages with Rebecca Groller Photography!