As a professional maternity photographer, I’ve had the privilege of working with many beautiful expectant mamas over the years. And one detail that can truly elevate your maternity portraits is your hairstyle. The right hairdo has the power to highlight your radiant pregnancy glow and create an overall ethereal, dreamlike quality in your photos.

I’m so excited to share my top five favorite hairstyles for mamas that can make you look incredible in photoshoots. Whether you envision bohemian romance or timeless elegance, these looks will surely complement your vision and make you feel like a total goddess. Let’s dive in!

Loose Waves & Braids

There’s just something so effortlessly beautiful about loose, tousled waves framing your face. This relaxed, beachy hairstyle adds gorgeous movement and flow to your maternity portraits. To get the look, have your stylist use a large-barrel curling iron, alternating curl direction. Then, gently brush out the curls with your fingers and a touch of texturizing spray.

For an extra romantic touch, incorporate a few small braids into your waves. A single braid on each side that joins into a half-up style is incredibly flattering. Or disperse a few delicate braids throughout your mane for a bohemian, free-spirited vibe. This intricate detailing adds beautiful dimension and whimsy.

Elegant Updos

Nothing says timeless sophistication quite like a polished updo style for your maternity photos. An upswept bun or chignon flatters your facial features while giving you that coveted off-the-shoulder look. Perfect for highlighting your new pregnancy curves!

For a modern twist, try a tousled updo with a few face-framing tendrils. This creates a more relaxed yet refined finish. You can also elevate your updo by incorporating intricate twists and braids. Small embellishments like dainty hairpins or fresh florals make for a lovely accent.

To achieve an updo that lasts, be sure your stylist uses a firm-hold hairspray and plenty of bobby pins. A veil of soft, hair-matched extensions can also add gorgeous volume and thickness.

Half-Up Hairstyles

Can’t decide between an updo and leaving your locks down? These styles keep your hair mostly free-flowing while pulling the top half up and away from your face. So flattering for those classic cradling-the-bump poses.

You have lots of options for the updo portion, whether that’s a chic twisted bun, tousled pony, or intricate braids. For the lower section, falling curls or beachy waves create beautiful movement. Your stylist can tease and backcomb the hair under the half-up portion to create added volume and glamour.

To keep the updo secure yet soft and piecey, use a soft-hold hairspray and spritz with texturizing spray once styled. Small, clear elastics help prevent dents or harsh lines.

Flower Crowns & Vines

Want to channel your inner ethereal woodland goddess? Then a flower crown or hair vine is an absolute must for your maternity session. These fun accessories bring all the bohemian, fairytale vibes that look absolutely magical in photos.

While fresh flower crowns create an organic, natural aesthetic, there are also lots of options for silk or dried floral crowns. Delicate vines woven throughout your tresses add a similar touches of natural whimsy. I’m in love with the way these details highlight your glowing features and make your portraits look straight out of a storybook.

For staying power, have your stylist use plenty of hairspray and bobby pins. Going with artificial flowers or vines means you can wear your accessory for longer before it wilts. Just be sure it’s securely fastened and won’t fall out when you move around.

Soft Side Sweeps

One of my personal favorite hairstyles for maternity sessions is the soft, face-framing side sweep. By gently brushing the hair over to one side, this creates a feminine, romantic aesthetic that flatters every mama-to-be’s features. The wave of hair over one shoulder brings such an elegant, Old Hollywood vibe too.

To keep your side-swept look fresh and modern, opt for loose waves or curls rather than a severe, slicked-back part. For shorter hair lengths, a few delicate braids can add lovely detailing. Or leave your hair straight and sleek for a more polished, red-carpet inspired finish.

Don’t forget to have your stylist use a brushable hairspray to lock your side-swept style in place. Shine serums and creams help enhance your hair’s natural luster and glossiness under the camera lights.

No matter which of these gorgeous hairstyles speaks to your maternity vision, the key is choosing something that makes you feel confident, radiant, and fully yourselves. Take the time to work with a talented stylist and come prepared with inspiration photos. And most importantly, get ready to let that breathtaking pregnancy glow shine!

Interested in booking a timeless maternity portrait session? Let’s connect so I can make your dream shoot come to life!