What to Wear for a Fall Maternity Photoshoot: 2025 Style Guide

Fall is one of the most magical times for maternity photos—the evening light, the cozy textures, and the warm colour palettes create timeless photos filled with emotion and beauty.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best fall outfit ideas for maternity photos that are both photogenic and bump-friendly—plus, I’ll share what works with autumn light and landscape.

Featured Look: Cream Sweater Dress in a Field

This mama showed up to our session in this soft, off-white sweater dress wearing ankle booties.

Why it works? 

This look is effortless but chic, and full of warmth. The texture of the knit adds visual interest, and the off-white tone pops against the warm autumn colours. Overall, this look lets her bump take centre stage.

• Neutral tones complement the colours of fall without competing.

• A fitted but soft material hugs the bump in all the right places without being restrictive.

• Long sleeves and a midi length strike the perfect balance between cozy and elegant.

Best Colours for Fall Maternity Photos

Fall is about warm and earthy tones. Think rich, soft, and nature-inspired. Here are a few palettes that work beautifully in outdoor settings:

• Neutrals: Cream, oatmeal, ivory, taupes

• Warm tones: Rust, burnt orange, terracotta, golden yellow

• Soft accents: Dusty rose, muted olive, sage, burgundy

• Cool contrast: Deep navy, charcoal, forest green

Choose tones that contrast (gently) with a fall landscape, not too bright but not too dark.

A soft sweater dress in cream, and partner wearing a taupe sweater with grey trousers. A child in soft grey.

Outfit Ideas That Always Photograph Well

I get it, maybe sweater dresses aren’t your thing. Below, I’ve laid out fall-friendly maternity outfits that look gorgeous on camera.

1. Flowy maxi dress with sleeves.

   • Long, flowing fabric catches the breeze and adds movement. Look for empire waistlines or wrap dresses for a flattering fit.

2. Oversized knit sweater and leggings

   • A chunky and cozy sweater with maternity leggings and boots.

3. Choose layers—a slip dress with a cardigan or shawl

   • Layers are great for variety in photos. A silky base with a textured outer layer adds depth.
     
     

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Photo Session

I always suggest avoiding loud patterns—not just for maternity sessions but in general—solid colours or gentle textures tend to photograph best.

1. Coordinate, but don’t match. If your partner or kids are joining you, stick to complementary tones, not identical outfits.

2. Comfort, comfort, comfort. If you’re tugging, pulling, or overheating, it will show in your photos.

3. Be mindful of accessories. Simple jewellery, wide-brim hats, or cozy wraps. You don’t want anything too distracting.

Fall dates book fast, especially during the golden hour season in September and October. If you’ve been dreaming of capturing your bump this season, now’s the time to reach out.

This session was captured at Bowmont Park, Silver Springs NW Calgary, Alberta, right at the beginning of fall. The tall grass and leaves on the trees were starting to change colour, creating a beautiful backdrop. Want that look for yourself? Let’s make it happen.