If you’re renting a gown here’s what to keep in mind:

• Choose a silhouette that flatters your bump — fitted gowns, off-shoulder styles, and flowing trains photograph beautifully.

• Double-check measurements. Maternity sizing is different from pre-pregnancy sizing — always measure around your bust and under your bump.

• Try on before your session if possible. You want to feel comfortable and able to move, sit, and pose.

• Steam it ahead of time. Wrinkles show up in photos, especially in satin or chiffon materials.

Recommended rental boutiques:
→ SALT GOWNS

→ RAW GOLDEN

If you’re purchasing your own:

• Choose neutral tones or soft colors (creams, taupes, sage, dusty pink, mocha, ivory, rust, muted blues). These tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you.

• Avoid busy prints or bright neon shades — they pull attention away from your face and belly.

• Flowy fabrics like chiffon, tulle, and lace add movement and softness.

• Think about texture — crochet, lace, or ribbed knits can add visual depth without overpowering.

• Consider two looks: one more dramatic gown, and one simple dress or body-hugging piece for variety.

Check out my Amazon storefront for some of my inspiration:

VERONICA’S AMAZON STOREFRONT

If you’re more comfortable in your own clothes, that’s totally fine — authenticity always photographs beautifully.
Just keep these in mind:

• Choose pieces that fit your bump snugly, not loosely. Oversized clothing can make you appear larger than you are in photos.

• A fitted dress, flowy kimono, or off-shoulder top with jeans can work great.

• Avoid anything with logos, busy patterns, or neon tones.

• Stick with natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk, knit) over synthetics.

Professional hair and makeup make a huge difference — it helps even out skin tone, smooth flyaways, and boost confidence.
Here are my top recommendations:

Hair

• Soft curls, loose waves, or half-up styles photograph beautifully.

• Avoid tight ponytails or buns unless that’s your signature look.

• Bring a brush, bobby pins, and hairspray for touch-ups, especially if we’re shooting outdoors.

Looking for recommendations?

Lunatic Fringe Hair Salon

Landis Lifestyle Salon

Makeup

• Choose natural, glowy, and timeless. Think: enhanced features, not heavy glam.

• Matte foundation, subtle contour, and individual lashes look stunning on camera.

• Bring lip gloss or lipstick for quick touch-ups.

If you’d like, I can recommend trusted hair and makeup artists:

Nikra Beauty

Christian Diaz Make-Up

Your partner’s outfit should complement your look — not compete with it.

• Keep his look simple, timeless, and neutral. Think: beige chinos, khaki pants, jeans with a cream or white henley, button-up, or fitted tee.

• Avoid logos, patterns, and sneakers.

• Roll up sleeves for a more relaxed look.

• Earthy tones like tan, olive, charcoal, or soft blue work beautifully next to most maternity gowns.

Pro Tip:
If you’re wearing a gown, have your partner dress slightly up — jeans and a tee won’t match a formal lace gown. A linen button-up or casual sport coat balances the look.

Check out my fall selection of clothing from my Amazon storefront for inspiration:

VERONICA’S AMAZON STOREFRONT

Keep kids coordinated, not matching.

• Stick to your color palette — soft neutrals, creams, tans, dusty blues, sage greens, or muted pinks.

• Textures photograph well — linen, knits, cotton, suspenders, dresses with subtle ruffles.

• Avoid character shirts, logos, or bright sneakers.

• Barefoot (if weather allows) looks timeless and natural.

For small children:

• Bring a backup outfit (accidents happen).

• Don’t stress perfection — their personalities are part of the story.

Check out my fall Amazon storefront for inspiration:

VERONICA’S AMAZON STOREFRONT

• Add simple jewelry: dainty earrings, a necklace, or statement ring.

• Avoid watches or hair ties on wrists.

• Bring lotion to smooth dry hands and elbows.

• If your gown is sheer or fitted, wear nude seamless undergarments and a strapless bra or bandeau.

✔ Hydrate the day before — it helps with energy and skin glow.
✔ Get a good night’s rest.
✔ Eat something light before your session.
✔ Pack a small bag with touch-up items: water, tissues, lipstick, hairbrush, baby wipes, snacks for kids.
✔ Most importantly — relax and trust the process. I’ll guide you every step of the way with flattering, natural poses that celebrate your beauty and connection.