Pregnant woman in golden field at sunset beside photographer TM Channon's black and white portrait and studio bio text.


WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY MATERNITY PHOTO SESSION?



One of the questions I am asked most often is, "How do I prepare for my maternity session?" The answer is simple: don't stress.


Your maternity session is about celebrating an incredible season of life and creating beautiful photographs that you and your family will treasure for years to come. My goal is to make the experience relaxed, enjoyable, and completely stress-free so that you can focus on being present and enjoying the moment.

I am so excited to work with you and create something unique that documents this very special chapter in your story.


Relax – I've Got You


Many of the women I photograph tell me they feel nervous about being in front of the camera. If that sounds like you, please don't worry. You don't need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands.

I will guide you every step of the way.

Throughout the session I pay attention to all the little details, from flattering poses and angles to the way your dress falls and how your hair sits. My job is to help you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful.

Most importantly, we'll have fun. There will be plenty of laughter, a few silly moments, and lots of opportunities to capture the genuine joy and anticipation that comes with pregnancy.


What to Wear


I have a beautiful collection of maternity gowns available for you to use during your session. I tend to choose flowing, draping, and figure-hugging fabrics that beautifully showcase your baby bump and photograph wonderfully in both natural light and studio settings. I also include sheer and lace options.


I bring a selection of gowns to every session so you can choose what feels most like you on the day.BUT If you already own something special that makes you feel amazing, I encourage you to bring it along. Whether it's a stunning dress, a favourite outfit, or something meaningful to you, I love incorporating personal pieces into your session.


You are also welcome to rent a few outfits, my favourite vendor for this is: Laneway Eleven

Otherwise, leave it to me I will make sure you look and feel beautiful.



Studio Session Essentials


If you are having a studio maternity session, please bring:

A white collared dress shirt (freshly ironed) – your partner's shirt works perfectly.

A pair of jeans that you love and feel comfortable wearing.

These simple pieces create timeless, elegant photographs that never go out of style.

Hair and Makeup

I highly recommend doing your hair and makeup as though you were going out on a special date.

Professional makeup photographs beautifully, but if you're doing your own, keep foundation light and make sure it is blended well. Natural, glowing skin always photographs best.

One important note: please avoid spray tans before your session, as they can often appear uneven or orange in photographs.


Undies

The right undergarments make a huge difference to the final look of your images.

Please bring:

Nude, peach, pink, or skin-toned boxer-style lace underwear that provides good coverage.

A nude bandeau or strapless bra.

Black underwear if you'd like options, but please avoid wearing black as your primary choice.

Many maternity portraits feature your belly and waistline, so neutral tones photograph much more naturally and help keep the focus on you.


Of course, if you prefer a more covered style and don't wish to show your belly, that's absolutely fine too.


Footwear

Please wear comfortable, closed walking shoes to the session location.

We often walk short distances and your comfort is important. Most of the time your shoes won't be visible in the final images, but it's a good idea to bring along a nicer pair just in case we decide to include them.


Nails Matter More Than You Think

Your hands will feature prominently in many photographs as they naturally rest on your bump.

Please make sure your fingernails and toenails are clean, tidy, and well manicured before your session.


What Should My Partner Wear?

Simple and timeless is always best.

I generally recommend:

Smart jeans or chinos.

A plain grey, white, or navy t-shirt.

In some images I may suggest your partner remove their shirt, particularly for more intimate and connected photographs. Of course, this is entirely optional and only if they feel comfortable.


What About the Kids?


If older siblings are joining us, I recommend clothing that is neutral, classic, and comfortable.

Avoid large logos, bright graphics, or busy patterns where possible. Soft, timeless colours photograph beautifully and keep the attention on the connection between your family members.


During the Session

Most maternity sessions last approximately 45 minutes.

We usually have time for one or two outfit changes and will create a mixture of beautifully styled portraits alongside plenty of natural, candid moments.

Some of my favourite images are the in-between moments—the laughter, the quiet smiles, the gentle touches, and the anticipation of meeting your baby.


By the end of the session, most mums (and especially dads!) are surprised by how relaxed, enjoyable, and quick the experience feels.


Looking Forward to Meeting You

Pregnancy is a fleeting season filled with anticipation, excitement, and love. It deserves to be documented in a way that feels authentic, beautiful, and uniquely yours.

I can't wait to create something special with you and capture memories that you and your family will cherish for generations.

Couple embracing in golden hour light, woman in lace boho maternity dress, man in white shirt, surrounded by tall grass.
A young family poses on sandy beach dunes at golden hour, father holding baby, mother in rust floral dress.
Couple sitting together on sandy beach dunes surrounded by golden grass in warm sunset light.
Pregnant woman in rust lace maxi dress standing barefoot on sandy dunes surrounded by golden grass at sunset.
Pregnant woman in a rust lace dress cradling her belly outdoors in golden sunlight.
Pregnant woman in flowing rust gown poses on rocky beach at golden sunset.