Lyons, Colorado Maternity Photography
Outfit planning for a maternity session is one of the things clients ask about most. What reads well in photos, what works outdoors in Colorado, how to coordinate a partner and a toddler without everything looking too matchy — there’s a lot to think about.
This post walks through a real session I photographed in the Lyons foothills, with notes on what worked and why. If you want the full breakdown of dress styles, colors, and accessories, I have a separate post covering what to wear for maternity photos in more detail. Read both.
View maternity session details
A Real Colorado Maternity Session: What Crystal Wore
Crystal and her husband Kyle came to the Lyons foothills in late summer for their maternity session with their toddler daughter in tow. The location is favorite for maternity photography — open meadows, tall grasses, foothills views, and good evening light. It photographs well across seasons.
Crystal built her look around a dress she already owned — a rust-orange maxi with long sleeves, a v-neck, and a cinched waist. It moved well in the breeze, worked with her bump, and sat beautifully against the late-season grasses. She didn’t need to buy anything new. That matters, because maternity sizing is genuinely hard to shop for, and the best option is often already in your closet.
A few things she did that made the session work:
She started with her own outfit, then coordinated outward. Once she had her dress, she found a complementary dress for her daughter — same warm color family, floral print rather than solid, so it read as coordinated without being identical. Her husband wore a vintage shirt in muted tones that stayed out of the way visually. The group felt cohesive without looking like they planned it in a catalog.
She added accessories. Hats for both her and her daughter, boots for her daughter, a bow. These small additions gave the photos texture and personality. Accessories also give kids something to do with their hands.
She wore color. Not everyone needs to dress in neutrals. Rich, saturated color — especially warm tones — photographs beautifully in Colorado’s outdoor light, particularly in late summer and fall when the grasses and foliage carry similar warmth.
What to Keep in Mind for Colorado Outdoor Maternity Sessions
Colorado outdoor sessions have a few practical realities worth knowing before you pick your outfit.
Wind. Wind happens in Colorado. Flowy dresses move beautifully in photos, but your hair can fly into your face. I suggest bringing a hair tie just in case.
Walking. If you are up for it, we may walk around a bit during your session. Wear comfortable shoes. And if you are not up for walking, that is okay too — just let me know while we choose a location. (Safety first, always.)
Layers for comfort. Colorado temperatures swing. If your session is in the morning or evening, bring a wrap or jacket for between shots — you’ll want it.
Where I Photograph Maternity Sessions in Colorado
I do most maternity sessions outdoors. The Lyons area — including along the St. Vrain River and surrounding foothills — is one of my favorite locations for maternity work. Lyons has great options for families and maternity clients across seasons.
I also photograph maternity sessions in Boulder, Denver, Longmont, Loveland, and throughout the Front Range. If you have a location in mind, I’d love to hear it. If you don’t, I’ll suggest something based on your timing and the look you’re going for.
View my full maternity portfolio and session details.
Colorado Maternity Session FAQ
When should I schedule my maternity session?
Most maternity sessions work best between 28 and 36 weeks. Your bump is visible and full, but you’re still comfortable moving around. I have a post dedicated to when to schedule a maternity session if you want the full breakdown.
Do you have a client wardrobe I can borrow?
Yes. I have dresses available for maternity clients to borrow for their session. When you book, I’ll send you what’s available. Many clients use something from the wardrobe instead of shopping.
Can my partner and kids be in the photos?
Yes, and I’d encourage it. Maternity sessions that include a partner and any older children give you a fuller set of images from this time — not just portraits of the bump, but the whole family in the weeks before it gets bigger.
Do you photograph maternity sessions indoors?
I photograph most maternity sessions outdoors. For families and newborns, I work both in-home and outdoors. If you’re expecting and want to know more about what a newborn session looks like, that’s a separate page worth reading before your baby arrives.
What areas do you serve for maternity photography?
I’m based in Berthoud and serve the Front Range broadly — Boulder, Denver, Longmont, Lyons, Loveland, Fort Collins, and surrounding communities. Get in touch and I’ll let you know if your location works.
Ready to book your Colorado maternity session?
Inquire here.
Also helpful:
What to Wear for Maternity Photos
When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
What to Expect During an In-Home Newborn Session
