What to Wear for Your Maternity Photo Shoot in New York

 Planning a maternity photo shoot in New York is always exciting because the city gives you endless backdrops—Central Park’s soft greenery, the brownstone-lined streets of Brooklyn, the cobblestone charm of DUMBO, or even the bright lights of Times Square. But one of the biggest questions every mom-to-be asks is: “What should I wear?” Choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in how your photos look and how confident you feel. So if you’re preparing for your NYC maternity session, here’s a complete, detailed guide on what to wear to look and feel absolutely stunning.

1. Choose Outfits That Highlight Your Bump

Your baby bump is the star of the show, so your outfit should frame it beautifully. Form-fitting dresses, especially those made with stretchy, comfortable fabrics like jersey or ribbed cotton, are perfect for showing off your silhouette. Look for dresses that gather around the belly or have ruching on the sides—it naturally draws attention to your bump and adds flattering lines.

Another great option is a gown with an empire waist, which cinches under the bust and flows out over your belly. This style photographs beautifully, especially during sunset sessions in Central Park or Riverside Park.




2. Pick Colors That Stand Out in NYC Locations

New York’s scenery is unique, and your outfit should complement the environment.

Best Colors for Urban Locations (DUMBO, SoHo, Times Square, Midtown):

  • Black (classic NYC chic)

  • White or cream (clean and modern)

  • Deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, navy, and mustard

  • Metallics like gold or champagne for a touch of glam

These shades pop beautifully against concrete, red brick, and city lights.

Best Colors for Natural Settings (Central Park, Prospect Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park):

  • Soft pastels: blush pink, baby blue, lavender, sage

  • Earth tones: beige, rust, olive, warm browns

  • Light neutrals: ivory, sand, oatmeal

These colors blend gently with the greenery, water, and open sky.

3. Go for Flow and Movement

Nothing photographs more beautifully than fabric that moves. A flowy maternity gown that catches the wind on the Brooklyn Bridge or along the waterfront at Gantry Plaza State Park adds drama and elegance. Look for:

  • Chiffon skirts

  • Tulle gowns

  • Dresses with long trains

  • Wrap dresses with flowing sleeves

Movement brings life and softness to your images, especially if your session is outdoors.



4. Consider a Two-Outfit Session

Most NYC maternity shoots allow enough time for one quick outfit change, and it’s a great way to add variety to your gallery.

Suggested pairing:

  • Look 1: A glamorous, dramatic gown for dreamy, romantic shots

  • Look 2: A casual, relaxed outfit for cozy, natural moments

This gives you the best of both worlds—something timeless and something that feels like you.

Casual outfit ideas:

  • Skinny maternity jeans + off-shoulder top

  • Knit sweater + simple tank dress

  • Fitted bodysuit + kimono robe

  • A monochrome lounge set for an at-home or studio vibe

5. Don’t Forget About Texture

Textures add depth and visual interest to photos, especially in NYC where lighting can vary dramatically. Great textures for maternity outfits include:

  • Lace

  • Knits

  • Satin or silk

  • Velvet

  • Embroidery

  • Pleats

These fabrics catch the light beautifully and make your images feel more luxurious.

6. Mind the Season (NYC Weather Matters!)

Winter Maternity Shoots

If you’re brave enough to shoot in the winter, layering is your friend:

  • Long sleeve fitted dresses

  • Faux fur jackets

  • Wool coats

  • Knee-high boots

  • Knit scarves

Choose colors that stand out against the winter landscape—deep red, emerald green, black, white, or tan.

Spring Maternity Shoots

Soft florals, pastel colors, and lightweight dresses work best. Spring in NYC is still cool, so consider a pretty cardigan or shawl.

Summer Maternity Shoots

Go for breathable fabrics. Maxi dresses, crop tops with flowy skirts, or lightweight gowns are perfect. Avoid heavy, dark fabrics—they’ll absorb heat.

Fall Maternity Shoots

Rich, warm colors shine during fall: burnt orange, wine, forest green, mocha, and mustard. Add layers like boots, hats, and cardigans for cozy fall vibes.

7. Accessorize Without Overdoing It

Accessories should elevate your look, not overshadow it.

Great accessory choices:

  • Simple jewelry (small hoops, studs, delicate necklaces)

  • A wide-brim hat for a boho NYC look

  • Soft shawls or wraps

  • Floral crowns for park settings

  • Minimalist bracelets or a statement ring

Avoid anything too chunky or distracting. The focus should stay on your face and your belly.

8. Shoes Matter More Than You Think

NYC involves walking—a lot. Whether you're shooting in SoHo, Central Park, or DUMBO, be prepared to walk between locations. Choose stylish but comfortable footwear.

Best options:

  • Low heels

  • Sandals

  • Ballet flats

  • Boots (chunky or heeled)

  • Sneakers for casual looks

If you have a pair of heels you love, bring them and switch into them only for certain poses.

9. Include Your Partner or Family in the Color Palette

Coordinating outfits makes your photos look polished. You don’t need to match exactly—just stay within a complementary color palette.

Examples:

  • If you wear blush pink, your partner can wear beige, white, or light gray.

  • If you wear emerald green, your partner can wear navy or black.

  • If you wear white, your family can wear earth tones or pastel accents.

Avoid clashing patterns or logos.

10. Think About the Style of Your Session

Your outfit should reflect the mood you want your photos to have.

Glamorous NYC Photoshoot

  • Satin or silk gowns

  • Sequined dresses

  • Bold colors (red, gold, black)

Romantic Outdoor Photoshoot

  • Flowy boho gowns

  • Lace dresses

  • Soft neutrals or pastels

Edgy Downtown NYC Photoshoot

  • Black fitted dress

  • Leather jacket

  • Body-hugging jumpsuit

Cozy Studio Photoshoot

  • Bodysuit + oversized sweater

  • Minimalist slip dress

  • Partner in neutral tones

11. Prioritize Comfort

You’ll be moving, posing, walking, and standing—sometimes for up to an hour or more. Wear something that:

  • Doesn’t itch

  • Doesn’t feel too tight

  • Lets you sit comfortably

  • Doesn’t ride up

Comfort reflects in your facial expressions, posture, and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Your maternity photo shoot in New York is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and the right outfit can make your images feel magical, timeless, and authentically you. Choose clothing that flatters your bump, reflects your personal style, complements your NYC location, and keeps you comfortable. Whether you go chic, romantic, glam, or cozy, the most important thing is that you feel beautiful—because when you feel good, it shows in every single photo.


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Contact us:

Boudoir Photography by Your Hollywood Portrait

247 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

646-209-8198


Location: Brooklyn, NY, USA

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