Keenan & Madeline | 5 Tips for Outdoor Maternity Photos
colorado springs, co
When two of your best friends ask you to take their maternity photos, the answer is an immediate, no-hesitation YES. That was exactly the case with Keenan and Madeline — two humans I love dearly, who have since become parents to the sweetest baby girl, Colbie (who, for the record, is very fond of her Auntie Jazz 😉).
But back when Madeline was pregnant, we carved out time for an outdoor maternity session… in the cold…because you do what you have to do when a baby could pop out any moment and you still want photos. And honestly? Completely worth it.
Their maternity photos ended up being such a good example of why outdoor maternity sessions can be so special — and also how to make them actually enjoyable, even when the weather is not exactly cooperating (hellooooo snow and sleet).
Tip #1: Choose a Location That Does the Heavy Lifting
When it comes to outdoor maternity photos, location matters. A lot. You want a spot that feels beautiful without requiring a ton of effort — especially when someone is growing a literal human. We chose a location that had open space, natural colors, and variety, so we didn’t have to walk far or overthink things. When a spot already has interest — trees, mountains, snow, tall grass, whatever — you don’t have to force poses or movement, which is especially important when you're very third trimester pregnant.
Bonus: outdoor locations give you natural light that’s incredibly flattering and timeless. No props required.
Tip #2: Dress for Warmth First, Aesthetic Second
Listen. Madeline looked adorable (as she always does), but we were very intentional about layers. For outdoor maternity photos — especially in colder months — warmth is everything. Cozy sweaters, long sleeves, textures, and layers photograph beautifully and ALSO keep you from freezing. If it’s really cold, you can always pop a coat on between shots, bring a blanket to snuggle into, or plan quick bursts of photos followed by warm-up breaks. No one needs to “power through” being miserable for the sake of photos. That’s not fun for anyone.
And yes… it was freezing. But we survived. And then the snow showed up.
Tip #3: Embrace the Weather (Even When It’s Wild)
We did not plan for snow. It just… happened. And it added something extra special to our session. Outdoor maternity photos are one of those things where flexibility is key. Wind, clouds, snow, shifting light — it’s all part of the process. Snow adds softness and some whimsy. Clouds add drama. Wind adds movement. None of those things are bad — they just tell a story.
Tip #4: Keep It Simple and Comfortable
Maternity sessions don’t need complicated posing or constant direction. That's not my style anyway. In fact, the best photos usually happen when things are able to flow naturally. We focused on simple prompts: standing close, laughing, walking slowly, cradling that incredible baby bump, taking breaks as needed. Outdoor maternity photos should feel calm and fun — for SURE not like a workout.
Madeline didn’t need to “try” to look beautiful. She just was (truly the cutest pregnant woman ever).
Tip #5: Remember What You’re Actually Documenting
At the end of the day, maternity photos aren’t about perfection. They’re about a season — one that’s fleeting, emotional, exciting, and a little uncomfortable all at the same time.
Now that Keenan and Madeline are parents to Colbie, these photos mean even more. They capture the before. The anticipation. That season right before it all changed.
Morgan family — we love you to pieces. Getting to photograph this season for you was such a gift, and watching you step into parenthood has been even sweeter!
If you’re considering outdoor maternity photos, my biggest advice is this: keep it relaxed, dress comfortably, choose a great location, and don’t be afraid of a little cold (or snow 😉). The memories are worth it every single time.
