One beautiful core memory you can create during pregnancy is a maternity shoot. Even better when it’s stylish and creative in a way that makes the photos feel timeless — something you can look back on years from now and relive all the emotions of that special chapter.

Yes, maternity shoots have a beautiful energy of their own, but one of the best parts is that you get to decide exactly what you want yours to look like. From your outfit, hair and makeup to the set and even the props you want to incorporate, the creative direction is yours to explore. Once you’ve picked your photographer and studio, you can step into the role of creative director, if you want to, and bring your vision to life with a moodboard filled with colour palettes, references and the overall vibe you’d love to capture.

So, if you’re currently looking for inspiration and Pinterest or Instagram hasn’t quite shown you something that feels authentic to you or achievable, here are some stylish maternity shoot ideas to consider:

Ethereal & Floral

Lean into a soft, dreamy aesthetic with florals in the background. Think delicate blooms, flowing fabrics and a romantic setting that creates an almost otherworldly feel. You can keep the styling light and airy or make the flowers more dramatic for a statement-making set.

Ini Dima-Okojie
Try a simple, flowy sleeveless gown and a sleek back ponytail with dainty white flowers on set.  Photo Credit: Ini Dima-Okojie/Instagram

 

Toke Makinwa
Let your outfit and bump be the main attraction in gold, with a floral background. Photo Credit: Toke Makinwa/Instagram

 

The Cool Mum

If you’re a mum-to-be who wants maternity photos that feel effortlessly stylish rather than overly traditional, this is for you. Play with relaxed silhouettes, statement accessories like sunglasses. Also, try sets outdoors rather than being confined to a studio. The goal is to make the shoot feel like you, just with a beautiful bump taking centre stage.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington
Look like you’re strutting the runway in a chic dress with dramatic sleeves and accessorise with a clutch and oversized glasses. Photo Credit: Adesua Etomi/Instagram

 

Maternity style inspo
Try having your shoot by a lake in a white outfit, Afrocentric hairstyle and simple props. Photo Credit: Sabrina/Instagram

 

Glamour, But Make It Editorial

Take cues from fashion editorials and bring a little drama to your maternity shoot. Think striking silhouettes, sculptural poses, beautiful lighting and styling that feels elevated and intentional. Whether it’s simple lingerie, a glamorous gown, or a more fashion-forward look, let the photos feel like they belong in a magazine.

Adut Akech
A simple yet fabulous black lingerie and olive green robe. Photo Credit: Adut Akech/Instagram

 

Olivia Arukwe
You can’t go wrong with a white bralette, skirt and feather-detailed veil. Photo Credit: Olivia Arukwe/Instagram

 

Minimalist Mum-To-Be

Sometimes, less really does give you more room to shine.  Try a clean studio setting, pared-back styling and a neutral or striking palette that keeps the focus on you and your bump. Simple dresses or co-ords in basic colours like black or white, minimal props and understated beauty details can create photographs that feel elegant and timeless.

Minimalist maternity shoot
A chic beige or white crop top and maxi skirt is a great way to show off your bump. Photo Credit: Tobi Hamilton/Instagram

 

Temi Otedola
A sleek red hooded long-sleeve gown gives off a clean yet striking look. Photo Credit: Temi Otedola/Instagram

 

The Coordinated Old-School Denim Effect

There’s something about denim that gives photographs an effortlessly cool, nostalgic quality. Bring that feeling into your maternity shoot with classic jeans, denim shirts, jackets, or coordinated denim looks with your partner.

Denim maternity style
Wear matching denim outfits with your partner. Photo Credit: Niyak/Instagram

 

Simi and Adekunle Gold
Go for matching denim outfits with your partner and a simple dark background. Photo Credit: Simi/Instagram