Sometimes simpler is better when it comes to life’s biggest milestones and tiniest new additions. When you remove the backdrops, you can really focus on what matters most—your love for each other, the excitement you feel as you eagerly await your little one, and the incredible beauty of pregnancy. Alex and Mike are due shortly with their first babe didn’t want to let this time go by without documenting pregnancy together. A Chicago studio maternity session was a must! They saw a recent maternity session at A Darling Studio and fell in love with the look of it. The studio is a private place without any distractions for simply beautiful lifestyle portraits. 

Chicago Studio Maternity Photos at A Darling Studio

I love this studio for maternity and personal branding sessions because of the natural light, fresh, modern aesthetic, and warm hardwood floors—it checks all the boxes. You can easily dress it up with florals or rugs or leave it as-is for precious portraits like these. Alex and Mike skipped the props other than the stool and a shag rug, and Alex rocked the cutest outfits showcasing her adorable bump. I love that she brought along a comfy casual look as well as a classy, elegant, and sexy black gown with a high slit for showing off those gorgeous legs of hers. We had so much fun playing with the natural light and soft elements that A Darling Studio offers. 

While I do love the studio’s aesthetic, one of my top reasons for shooting here—especially maternity portraits—is the level of intimacy and privacy it offers. Alex played around with a subtle boudoir maternity look that’s only possible at home or in the studio. Plus, Alex and Mike were able to relax and take this time to enjoy each other’s company without onlookers. They are so, so sweet with each other, and the laughter comes easily. It makes my heart flutter to be able to capture that authentic connection. (It’s not hard to envision these two as parents—they are going to be the very best!)

And since Alex did such a spectacular job with the outfits, I thought I’d take a moment to offer a few maternity photoshoot dress and outfit ideas:

6 Maternity Photoshoot Outfit Ideas

Maternity Gown

Flowing ruffles or elegant fitted gowns—both styles photograph beautifully. Just make sure to select a style that accentuates your bump instead of hiding it. If you opt for a flowy style, go with an empire waist to show off your bump (and this style is typically both comfortable and flattering). Alex’s black gown looked stunning on her, and I love the high slit to show off a little more skin.

Sheer Robe or Tulle

If you want to show off your bump but don’t want to bare all, sheer lace and tulle look lovely on every body type and bump and create gorgeous silhouette portraits. You can find many style ideas on Pink Blush Maternity (for style inspo purposes—I have not personally purchased anything there).

Comfy Casual

Button-downs, sports bras, unbuttoned jeans, cute kicks—effortlessly beautiful.

Black or White Long-Sleeve Bodysuit

Pair this with a wide-brim hat or florals. Cute, chic, and fabulous! Alternatively, you could get a sleeveless bodysuit and pair it with an off-the-shoulder sweater or cardigan.

Two Piece Gown or Outfit

Draw extra attention to your precious bump by splitting up your outfit and leaving your bump bare. There are so many cute ways to do this: a bandeau and long skirt, jeans and cropped shirt or sweater, two-piece dresses, a sports bra and jeans, and more!

Tasteful Boudoir 

Alex knocked this out of the park. I love both the bra and jeans look and the black balconette bra and jacket. You may not send these out on your announcements, but maternity boudoir is a fun way to express yourself and feel sexy, confident, and empowered before your little one arrives. Trust me; you’ll love this as much as your partner. Pregnancy comes with many ups, downs, and changes, and you deserve to feel fabulous in the days leading up to your baby’s arrival.

Book Your Chicago Studio Maternity Session with Meg

Chicago Maternity Photographer | @megadamikcreative
Chicago Photography Studio | @adarlingstudio