Plus Size Maternity Pose Guide: 25+ Confidence-Boosting Poses

Looking for plus-size maternity pose inspiration? You”re in the right place!

Our original post, Your Ultimate Guide to Beautiful Plus Size Pregnancy Photos, covers everything from what to wear to how to find a size-inclusive photographer. But after hearing your requests for more maternity pose plus size ideas, we’ve created this new companion guide.

Whether booking a professional session or setting up your phone for some DIY shots, this guide is packed with confidence-boosting plus size maternity poses. Each idea is meant to help you feel at ease, look radiant, and most importantly see yourself reflected beautifully.

We’re focusing on what works best for real bodies in real life, with accessible tips and tons of creative maternity photo inspiration. Let’s dive into these maternity poses for plus size parents that center comfort, connection, and joy.

Top Maternity Poses for Plus-Size Pregnancy

Side Maternity Pose

This is one of the most popular plus-size maternity poses, and for good reason. Turning slightly to the side beautifully accentuates your bump, especially if it’s not very pronounced. It’s an angle that creates soft curves and offers lots of room for personal expression.

You can keep it simple, like the example below, or explore a few easy variations we’ve highlighted. There are no rules; just go with what feels most natural to you. When you’re comfortable, your confidence shines through in every maternity photo.

And speaking of your shape, if you have a B-shaped belly, know that it’s completely normal and worth celebrating. Many people do! But if that’s not the look you’re going for in your plus-size maternity photos, that’s okay too.

You might consider wearing a belly band to create a more D-shaped appearance or place your hands (or your partner’s) in front of your bump for a look that feels more aligned with your vision.How To Do It:

How To Do It: Stand in profile or with a slight turn to the camera. Place one hand under your belly and the other on top. Keep your posture relaxed and let your body settle into a natural stance. This pose is all about showing off your shape while feeling calm and connected to your baby.

Side Maternity Pose Variations

There are endless ways to personalize a side maternity pose, but here are a few of our favorites to get you started. We recommend trying each variation from both your left and right sides as you might be surprised which angle you love most! That said, if you already know your preferred side, feel free to stick with it.

Side Pose with Hand on Hip

A simple variation of the side pose includes shifting one hand to rest on your hip. This creates a sense of confidence and presence while still highlighting your bump with your other hand.

Side Pose with Both Hands Below the Belly

This variation of the classic side pose shifts both hands to rest beneath the belly. It’s especially supportive for a fuller bump or a twin pregnancy (as you’ll see below) and offers a subtle way to emphasize the belly’s shape while creating a strong, grounded presence.

Side Pose with One Hand in Hair

This variation adds movement and personality to your maternity photos. By lifting one hand to your hair, you bring focus to your face and expression while still showcasing your bump in a gentle, flattering way.

Forward-Facing Maternity Pose

This strong, simple, and direct pose is another favorite among plus size maternity picture poses because it centers you and your bump with confidence without feeling overly staged.

Add visual interest with layers, flowy accessories, or a favorite wrap. For the most flattering lighting, aim for filtered sunshine, like under a tree, on a covered bridge, or near a softly lit window at home.

How To Do It: Stand tall with relaxed shoulders and hands cradling your belly (tip: try one hand on top and one underneath). Look at the camera for a bold statement or down at your bump for a reflective moment.

Standing with Support Maternity Pose (Wall, Tree, or Prop)

Sometimes, you just need a little support for your maternity photos. Support can bring comfort and character to your maternity photos, whether it’s a sturdy tree, a textured wall, or a bridge’s railing.

For plus-size bodies, this kind of pose offers ease while naturally showing off your curves and bump in a relaxed, flattering way. It’s a great option if you’re looking for variety or just want to take a break from standing unsupported.

How To Do It: Stand with your back, hip, or shoulder resting gently against a vertical surface. Whatever feels most natural for your body! Let one leg bend slightly or cross at the ankle to add ease and shape. Rest your hands on your belly or let one fall to your side while the other connects with your bump.

You can look at the camera with a soft smile, gaze off into the distance, or glance down for a quiet, reflective moment.

Seated Plus Size Maternity Pose

A seated pose is a lovely way to show off your baby bump, especially when you’re looking for comfort, variety, or a creative alternative to standing poses.

How To Do It: This pose can be done in so many ways and adapted to what feels best in your body. Here are four seated variations that work well for plus-size pregnancy and can help you get photos you’ll truly love.

Crisscrossed on the Bed or Ground Pose

This classic pose creates a peaceful, centered look that works wonderfully indoors or out. Sitting cross-legged helps frame your bump naturally and keeps the focus right where you want it.

How To Do It: You’re seated upright, legs crisscrossed (or however feels most comfortable), with hands resting on or around your belly either gently cradling or forming a heart. You can gaze down at your bump, close your eyes for a reflective feel, or look at the camera for a soft, confident expression.

Seated with Legs in Front Maternity Pose (On Grass or a Blanket)

Not everyone is comfortable sitting cross-legged—and that’s okay! Stretching your legs out in front or tucking them to the side creates a more casual, open posture that still centers your bump.

How To Do It: You’re seated with legs extended slightly or bent at the knee. One or both hands rest on your belly, and your shoulders are relaxed.

Pro Tip: If you’re shooting outside, bring a lightweight blanket for comfort and a pop of color or texture.

Seated on Steps or Stairs Maternity Pose

For a more formal or editorial look, sitting on steps adds structure and style to your maternity photos. It also provides natural levels to work with for different hand placements and angles.

How To Do It: You’re seated on the steps with your bump facing forward or slightly turned. Hands can rest on top and bottom of your belly or on your hip for added flair. Flowing dresses or gowns look stunning draped across the stairs, adding elegance to this grounded pose.

This is a great choice for urban, indoor, or location-based shoots where you want a bit more drama or visual interest.

Side-Lying Seated Pose

This dreamy variation works beautifully for reclining on your side, propped up by one arm. It’s a favorite for flowy dresses and outdoor sessions in tall grass or wildflower fields.

How To Do It: You’re lying on your side or leaning back at an angle, with one arm supporting your body and the other resting on your belly. Your dress or skirt can cascade around you to add softness and movement.

It’s also a great way to mix things up mid-session if you’ve already done a lot of standing poses.

Silhouette Maternity Pose

Believe it or not, this can be an easy maternity photo ideas to pull off at home, especially if you love a more subtle or artistic vibe.

How To Do It: You’re standing in profile with soft, natural light behind you—usually from a window or doorway. The focus is on the shape of your bump, your posture, and your hands gently cradling your belly. You can look down, close your eyes, or softly smile for added emotion and depth.

DIY Tips to Create Silhouette Maternity Photos at Home:

• Choose a bright window: Look for a space where you get strong daylight but can keep the front of your body in shadow. Sheer curtains work great to diffuse the light.
• Wear something fitted: A body-hugging dress or tank shows off your shape best in silhouette. Skip bold patterns as solid colors help define your outline more clearly.
• Turn off front lights: You want your body to be darker than the background. No flash needed, just let the window light do the work.
• Use a tripod or shelf: If you don’t have a partner or friend avilable to help, no worries! Simply, prop your phone or camera up and use the timer setting. Silhouettes are perfect for solo DIY photos!
• Try black and white: A quick filter edit can enhance the silhouette effect and give your photo an extra polished look.

This pose is simple, elegant, and incredibly flattering at any stage of pregnancy. It’s a great reminder that you don’t need a professional photographer or a fancy backdrop to create something truly special.

Heart Hands Maternity Pose

There’s a reason the heart hands pose shows up in so many maternity photos; it’s simple, heartfelt, and just plain sweet. And in plus size maternity pictures, it’s such a lovely way to center your bump with a clear message of love.

This pose works just about anywhere, from lounging at home to standing in your favorite outdoor spot.

How To Do It: Bring both hands to your belly and shape them into a heart right over your bump. You can do this while standing or sitting, whatever feels best in your body. Some people like their fingers pointing down, others interlace them slightly. There’s no wrong way to do it, just go with what feels natural.

You can smile at the camera, look down at your bump, or close your eyes for a more reflective feel. And if your partner or child wants to join in, let them place their hands over yours to create a shared moment.

Fabric Flow + Movement Maternity Poses

Are you looking to add a little extra drama to your maternity photos? Movement is such a great option, and it’s a trick many Influencer use when taking photos that stop the scroll.

Letting your dress catch the wind, giving it a gentle twirl, or holding the fabric out to the side can turn a simple pose into something full of life and energy.

These types of maternity poses work beautifully for plus size bodies as flowy fabrics highlight your bump without clinging, and movement brings a sense of freedom and joy to your photos.

Whether you’re outside with a breeze or just swaying indoors, this style adds so much personality.

This style works especially well with lightweight or flowy dresses, but you don’t need a professional studio or wind machine to pull it off. A few simple movements or a dress with a bit of drape can make all the difference.

Here are two variations to try that work wonderfully for plus size bodies and bring a touch of magic to your maternity photos.

Dress Twirl Pose

You’re standing tall, gently twirling your dress to one side or turning slightly to create motion. One hand can hold the hem of your gown while the other rests on your bump or flows freely. This creates a fun, playful moment. It’s a great excuse to laugh, move, and enjoy yourself in front of the camera.

Gown Stretch + Flow Pose

This variation is more dramatic. You’re holding out the sides of your dress (or just one side) to showcase its full length and drape. One hand may gently cradle your bump while the other holds the fabric out and away from your body. It creates a stunning visual effect and feels regal, especially when paired with long, flowing gowns.

Pro Tip: If you have someone with you, ask them to give the dress a little toss before the photo is taken to create extra movement. It’s a fun trick for creating flow without needing wind!

Elevate Your Plus Size Maternity Poses

Once you’ve nailed basic plus size maternity poses, it’s time to have fun and make your photos uniquely yours.

Here are a few simple ways to take your maternity poses to the next level!

Meaningful Props That Tell Your Story

Props can be a great way to add something personal to your maternity photos, whether it’s a letterboard with your due date, a rainbow symbol, a favorite baby book, or an ultrasound photo. These little touches help tell your story in a way that feels meaningful to you.

Consider laying in props with the poses you already love. Just keep the spotlight on what really matters; your body, your bump, and this incredible moment in time.

Include Your Partner, Kids, or Bestie

Maternity photos aren’t just about your bump; they’re about your story! Including your partner, kiddos, or a loved one adds warmth, connection, and context to your session.

Pro Tip: Layer in a classic pose, like seated or side-facing, and invite everyone to place a hand on your belly. Maybe your child wants to kiss the bump, or your partner gently embraces you from behind. These simple moments often turn into the most meaningful images.

When it comes to partner poses, we’ve shared some inspiring plus-size maternity photo stories on the Plus Size Birth blog. Below are a few favorites! Click the accompanying links to see more photos and explore the beautiful moments behind the photos.

Star Wars Maternity Shoot: Channeling Our Inner Dorkiness

Plus Size Maternity Photo Shoot: Tips for a Stress-Free Experience

5 Plus Size Maternity Photo Shoot Tips from a Photographer

Candid Moments

Some of the most beautiful maternity shots happen in between the poses.

Laughing, twirling, walking barefoot in the grass…these moments feel most like you. Candid photos are full of emotion and tell the real story of your pregnancy.

Consider asking your photographer or a loved one to help with DIY photos to keep snapping as you move, talk, or simply breathe. Let the joy and connection shine through naturally.

Boudoir-Inspired Plus Size Maternity Photos

Whether you’re in a robe, lingerie, or your favorite oversized sweater, boudoir-style poses can be a powerful way to embrace your body and your bump.

This style is about softness, confidence, and honoring where you are right now.

Pro Tip: Choose a seated or reclining pose near soft, natural light. One hand on your belly, the other resting where it feels most natural. Let the fabric, your curves, and your expression do the talking.

Your Plus Size Maternity Pose Options Are Limitless

While we’ve covered a wide range of maternity poses for plus size parents, the truth is there’s no limit to how you can celebrate this season of life.

Once you’ve explored some of these foundational plus-size maternity picture poses, feel free to make them your own. Capture your bump from above while lying down. Walk through your favorite spot for natural movement. Try a mirror shot or stand tall with hands behind your back to highlight your bump’s shape.

The best maternity photos are the ones that feel the most like you!

So, keep experimenting. Keep celebrating. And keep showing up for yourself in front of the camera. You deserve to feel seen and supported and your pregnancy documented.

We love celebrating all bumps and all bodies! If you try any of these poses, tag @plussizebirth on Instagram or send your favorite photo our way. You might just inspire someone else to embrace their pregnancy exactly as they are.

A heartfelt thank you to all the incredible individuals who shared their beautiful plus size maternity photos. Unless otherwise noted, you can see all these photos, and many more, through our Plus Size Pregnancy Week-By-Week Breakdown, which shares what to expect each week during pregnancy, especially tailored to your body.