Autumn’s here, and it’s the perfect time to capture the beauty of your pregnancy with a maternity shoot. Whether you’re renting an outfit from For The Creators or choosing something from your wardrobe, looking and feeling natural in front of the camera are two very different things – I get that.
As a maternity photographer, I spend my days working with bumps and babies, capturing special moments in time. To ensure your maternity shoot is unforgettable for all the right reasons, let's talk about styling tips so you can order your dress ahead of time.
With its rich colors and crisp air, the Autumn season offers the perfect backdrop for maternity photos. But it’s all about choosing looks that feel like you and complement the season’s textures and tones—while highlighting your growing bump.
Keep scrolling for my top 10 tips on what to wear for your maternity shoot.
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10 ways to feel and look your best for an outdoor autumn maternity photoshoot
1. Wear earthy colours
Autumn's all about those earthy and warm colours. Think deep reds, rich browns, mustard yellows and olive greens, as well as neutral tones like cream and beige. These shades not only blend perfectly with golden hour autumn scenery but also give your pregnancy photos that warm and cosy feel.
2. Layer up
Pregnancy hormones can make it feel warmer than it really is, but the crisp autumn air still calls for layering on a maternity shoot. Think cardigans, denim jackets, or wool coats—they’ll keep you cozy and add some depth to your look. Plus, you can do some photos with an without.
A chunky knit cardigan is a great choice; it looks effortless worn off the shoulder for photos and keeps you snug between shots when you need it.
3. Choose flowy dresses
Flowing mid-length or maxi dresses are a brilliant choice for an outdoor autumn maternity photoshoot. They softly hug your baby bump, making it the focal point of the photographs, while allowing you to move comfortably. Whether you go for florals or solid colours, romantic dresses look great against golden foliage.
4. Go for boots
Opt for ankle boots. Styles that cut low on the ankle and zip on the side are comfortable, flattering and easy to put on, especially if you’re in your third trimester! Black or brown boots are a classic that goes with everything. Boots will add an edge to your outfit, and they'll keep your feet warm while you stomp around outside during an autumn maternity photoshoot.
5. Dig out your old jeans
Jeans can be a great option for an autumn maternity photoshoot - but avoid styles with the over-the-bump-panel. Now's the time to embrace your inner Margot Robbie and free the bump. If you haven't rented a pair of low-slung maternity jeans, wear your pre-pregnancy jeans, unbuttoned, instead. They will give a flattering shape for bump photos. Try pairing them with an oversized knit. You can roll the jumper up to show off your bump, without getting too cold.
6. Don't forget an umbrella
Autumn weather can be unpredictable and whilst pregnancy photoshoot photographers are usually happy to reschedule the shoot if it’s forecast to rain, sometimes the weather changes without warning. Don’t let that worry you, though. Dramatic skies can provide a beautiful backdrop to your autumn maternity photoshoot, and a clear umbrella will not only keep you dry but add visual interest to your images.
7. Plan whole family looks
If you're going to involve your partner and children in your autumn maternity photoshoot, it’s a good idea to coordinate your outfits. Your outfits don’t have to be matching – if your colours are the same, you will blend into each other – but complementary colours can create a unified, visually appealing look.
8. Pack more than one outfit
Bring at least two outfits you love along to your autumn maternity photoshoot. You could go for a flowy dress for outfit one, followed by a knit paired with jeans. Two contrasting looks will add variety to your final gallery of pregnancy photographs.
9. Prioritise your comfort
While looking great in your autumn maternity photoshoot is important, comfort is key, especially when you're expecting. Pick clothing that lets you move with ease and feel comfortable and confident during the photoshoot.
10. Heading abroad for your maternity shoot?
If you're squeezing in a last-minute babymoon somewhere sunny, keep your look light and breezy. Opt for a flowy dress in soft, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton—something that moves with the breeze and feels comfortable in the heat. Barefoot keeps your look casual.
Want to access the mother of all maternity wardrobes? Unlock an unlimited wardrobe with a For the Creators membership from £30 per month. No contracts. No commitments. Cancel anytime.
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The Author: Alina Scanlen
Alina from Apple Grove Studio is a motherhood, newborn and family photographer based in South West London. She specialises in natural, relaxed sessions in her studio, on location and in her clients’ homes.
Follow Apple Grove Studio on Instagram or visit the website here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What trimester is best for a maternity photoshoot?
The ideal time really depends on you and how you are feeling. You might want to factor in your energy levels, whether you are struggling with sickness and how confident you are feeling in your new shape. For most women somewhere between the 28th to 36th week of pregnancy, the start of your third trimester, is a good moment, as your baby bump is often a well defined shape by this point. Everyone's pregnancies are different, though.
What should I wear for a pregnancy photoshoot?
Wear whatever you feel comfortable and confident in. For an autumn maternity photoshoot, long, romantic dresses work well, while more fitted shapes or open shirts and unbuttoned jeans can showcase your bump. Layers will add texture to your photos and keep you warm too.
Can I take my own maternity photos?
Some people like to book a professional maternity shoot photographer to take pregnancy photos, but of course you can take your own. You could ask your partner or a friend, or even take pictures yourself with the help of a tripod.
What is the best time of day to take photos outside in autumn?
There are fewer daylight hours to shoot in, compared to the summer months, but the low sun in autumn can make for lovely photographs, filled with warm, soft light. For your autumn maternity photoshoot, aim for early morning or the few hours before sunset.
When is golden hour?
Golden hour is the hour just before sunset when, on a clear day, you can capture photos with extra hazy glow.
