5 Tips for Stunning Fall Maternity Portraits in Phoenix

Fall maternity portraits in phoenix featuring a couple holding baby bump in desertscape during golden hour

Preparing for your maternity photoshoot can feel overwhelming, especially during the bustling fall season. The hustle of school routines, sports schedules, and holiday festivities with loved ones can make life feel like a whirlwind. Yet, amidst this beautiful chaos, there’s an undeniable magic to this season. The cooler temperatures and the warm, golden light create the perfect ambiance for capturing stunning fall maternity portraits in Phoenix.

At Jasmyn Sambac Photography, I curate a full-service portrait experience to make your photoshoot as effortless and enjoyable as possible. Understanding the importance of comfort and preparation, I’ve gathered a few essential tips to guide you, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Pregnant woman standing in Phoenix desertscape. She's dressed in a flowy white dress next to saguaro cactus

Expecting couple standing next to saguaro cactus in North Phoenix desert

reserve your maternity portrait session

Choose the Right Outfit

Wardrobe styling is essential in accentuating your baby bump. You want to look and feel beautifully empowered yet comfortable for the season.

Embrace Fall Colors and Textures

Select colors that complement the autumn color palette and the Phoenix desert scenery. Start first with a color that you love and flatters your skin tone. Then, build the rest of the color palette from there. Soft muted tones work wonderfully for this season, creating a natural and elegant look. Consider hues like:

Sage green
Pale blue-gray
Dusty rose
Soft mauve
Gold
Beige, cream, and warm browns
Soft grays

These colors evoke an unspoken sense of calm and sophistication, allowing your natural beauty to shine. Learn more about The Perfect Outfits for Fall Family Photos.

Comfort and Fit

Opt for full-sleeved, flowing dresses in natural fabrics made of 100% cotton, linen, or lace to ensure comfort and freedom of movement. These fabrics provide warmth, making them ideal for cooler autumn air. On a chillier day, layer a thin knit sweater to add dimension and texture to your look to keep cozy.

Accessories to complete the look

The right accessories can elevate your outfit, adding a subtle touch of luxury. Add delicate jewelry and the right shoes to complement your ensemble. Consider your photoshoot location when pairing the best shoes for your outfit.

Couple standing under desert trees kissing while holding baby bump.

Pick the perfect backdrop

Autumn colors & Fall foliage

While Phoenix offers a unique landscape, the vibrant red and gold fall hues can be found just a short drive away. Take an adventure up North and immerse yourself in a forest full of towering Firs, Pines, and iconic Aspens for breathtaking scenery. One of my favorite trails is West Fork at Oak Creek Canyon.

Phoenix Desertscape

The Phoenix desertscape holds more variety than most think. Within a 45-mile radius of the city, you’ll discover an array of diverse natural beauty- gorgeous mountain vistas, seas of saguaro cacti, serene lakes and rivers, and pockets of lush greenery that make the perfect backdrop for your maternity portraits.

Privacy and comfort

Your privacy and comfort are always a top priority when choosing a location for your maternity portraits in Phoenix. This is especially true if you’re incorporating a maternity boudoir session toward the end. My carefully curated list of locations includes spots that offer the seclusion you need, allowing you to relax and fully embrace this special milestone.

Expecting mom holding and looking down at baby bump. Desert mountain view is behind her with golden hour light.

First time parents face to face while hands are on baby bump. Golden hour light is behind them.

Closeup of mom and dad holding baby bump

Plan around the best lighting

The Golden Hour glow

It’s no secret that golden hour is the most sought-after time for maternity portraits and with good reason. The soft, warm hues during this magical time of day beautifully flatters skin tones, creating a gorgeous glow. It’s also the coolest time of day, making your session both comfortable and stunning.

Avoid midday

Midday is best avoided due to harsh lighting that casts deep shadows and leads to squinting, especially in Phoenix where shade is scarce. If a sunset/sunrise session isn’t an option, consider late morning or earlier in the afternoon. These times still offer gentler light depending on the location.

Dad kissing top of mom's head. Theyre standing between arch of desert bushes

Incorporate personal touches

Flowers & Meaningful Props

Incorporating flowers into your maternity portrait session adds a soft, feminine elegance. For a touch of personal storytelling, baby shoes or ultrasound photos can be included, creating unique and sentimental moments that reflect your journey.

Partner & Siblings

At Jasmyn Sambac Photography, your partner and children are always welcome to join your maternity session. Their presence helps to complete your family story. Remind them this is a time to connect and have fun as you celebrate welcoming your newest member. Create a playlist of songs you enjoy as a family to play at your session. This will help them relax and enjoy this time spent together.

Bring Essentials

As any Phoenix local knows, water is a must- even during the cooler months. I also recommend bringing your favorite snacks for yourself and your family, as your maternity portrait session will likely occur during normal dinnertime. Having a full belly will keep everyone happy and comfortable.

Listen to your body

Most importantly, always listen to your body. I frequently check in with you to ensure you feel well and comfortable and we take breaks as needed. Your safety is the top priority.