Maternity photography is a beautiful way to capture the fleeting moments of pregnancy, celebrating the journey into motherhood with elegance and grace. Choosing the perfect maternity photoshoot dress plays a key role in achieving the look you envision. Expectant mothers must decide whether to borrow a gown from a client closet or purchase their own dress for the session.
At Tobi’s Timeless Treasures, I offer a maternity client closet at my Waxhaw, NC studio, featuring a variety of stunning dresses for my photography clients. Whether you’re planning a studio session or an outdoor maternity photoshoot in the greater Charlotte, NC area, my client closet provides moms-to-be with professionally curated gowns—eliminating the hassle of shopping while ensuring a flawless look for your session.
Both options have advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on factors like budget, style, and practicality. This guide explores the pros and cons of using a client closet versus buying your own dress for a maternity photoshoot to help you make the best decision.
What is a Client Closet?
A client closet is a collection of maternity dresses offered by a photographer for their clients to wear during a session. These gowns are carefully selected for their flattering fits, high quality, and photogenic appeal. Having access to a variety of dresses ensures that clients find an option that suits their vision without having to buy a new outfit.
Pros of Using a Client Closet Dress for Your Maternity Session
Cost-Effective
Maternity dresses designed for professional photography can be expensive, often ranging from $100 to $500 or more. If you only need a gown for one session, borrowing from a client closet saves money while still allowing you to wear a high-quality, elegant dress.
Professional Styling & Quality
I have personally seen my maternity client closet dresses on a variety of body shapes, so I can confidently recommend styles that will look best on you. These gowns are selected specifically for photography, ensuring they drape beautifully and capture light well.
Convenience & Easy Prep
Searching for the perfect maternity dress can be time-consuming, especially when you’re balancing doctor’s appointments, baby preparations, and everyday responsibilities. A client closet takes the stress out of shopping, as the photographer has already done the work of curating a selection of dresses for you to choose from. Plus, you don’t have to worry about steaming or transporting the dress—your photographer will have it ready to go on the day of your session!
Wide Range of Styles
Most photographers invest in timeless, elegant, and trendy pieces to ensure their client closet remains fresh and appealing. My maternity client closet features a selection of flowy gowns, fitted mermaid styles, lace dresses, and bohemian-inspired pieces, and silk/chiffon wraps all chosen to highlight the beauty of pregnancy.
No Need for Alterations
Many maternity gowns are designed with stretchy and adjustable fabrics, making them versatile for different body types. With a client closet, there’s no need for last-minute alterations.
Fit & Color Accuracy
I have seen these dresses on a variety of mom-to-be body shapes, so I can accurately describe how they will fit different body types. Additionally, I can provide a true representation of the actual color of the dress in photos, eliminating the uncertainty that sometimes comes with online shopping.
👉 Check out my maternity client closet here to explore available dress options!
Cons of Using a Client Closet
Limited Selection
While I offer a variety of dresses, my collection may not include a specific color or style you envision for your session.
Hygiene & Cleanliness Concerns
Although I ensure that every dress is professionally cleaned after each use, some clients prefer wearing a brand-new gown. If this is a concern, purchasing your own dress may be a better choice.
Pros of Buying Your Own Dress
Total Control Over Style & Color
When purchasing your own maternity photoshoot dress, you have total freedom in selecting the exact color, fit, and design that aligns with your vision.
Custom Fit & Comfort
Buying your own dress allows you to choose a gown that fits you perfectly. If necessary, you can tailor it for maximum comfort and confidence.
Hygiene & Freshness
A personal dress ensures that no one else has worn it before, which some expectant mothers prefer.
Can Be Worn Again
A well-chosen maternity gown can double as a dress for baby showers, gender reveal parties, or postpartum events, making it a worthwhile investment.
Keepsake or Hand-Me-Down
Many women love the idea of keeping their maternity dress as a sentimental piece or passing it down to a friend or family member who may be pregnant in the future.
Cons of Buying Your Own Dress
Higher Cost
A high-quality maternity dress can be expensive, and if you only plan to wear it once, it may not be worth the investment. Not to mention if you are wanting to maximize the session and looking for more than one “look” so 2-3 changes in clothing.
Time-Consuming Search & Delivery Issues
Finding the perfect dress can take time, and if you’re ordering online, there’s always the risk of delayed shipping, meaning your dress might not arrive in time for your session.
Fit & Color Accuracy Concerns
We’ve all been there and as a short mama I have been there all too often. You order a dress you love and wait patiently for it to arrive. Then you try it on and think “omg is this the same dress?” Ordering online means you might receive a dress that doesn’t fit correctly or the color may look different than it did in the photos. Unlike a client closet where the photographer knows how the dress looks in real life, buying your own can be a gamble.
Requires Steaming & Transporting
If you buy your own dress, you’ll need to steam out wrinkles and bring it to the shoot yourself. With a client closet, your photographer takes care of this for you.
Where to Buy Maternity Dresses
If you decide to purchase your own dress, here are some great places to shop:
- Amazon – Affordable and fast shipping, but be sure to check reviews for quality and fit accuracy.
- PinkBlush Maternity – Beautiful and trendy maternity dresses, available in a wide range of styles.
- Etsy – Handmade, unique, and customizable dresses.
- Baltic Born – Elegant, flowy gowns perfect for maternity photography.
Final Thoughts: Should You Borrow or Buy a Maternity Photoshoot Dress?
Both options offer unique benefits, but the most important thing is choosing a gown that makes you feel confident, radiant, and beautiful. If you prefer the ease of a maternity client closet, I invite you to explore my collection at my Waxhaw, NC studio. If you love the idea of owning a dress, be sure to order it well in advance to ensure a perfect fit.
👉 Ready to book your maternity photoshoot? Secure your session with me at Tobi’s Timeless Treasures here!
👉 Still deciding? Let’s chat about your vision! Contact me to find the perfect maternity gown for your dream photoshoot. https://tobistimelesstreasures.com
Would you rather use a client closet or buy your own maternity dress for your photoshoot? Let me know in the comments!
