Outdoor maternity sessions are some of my absolute favourites to shoot. The light, the space, the connection to nature — there's a quality to outdoor images that even the best studio lighting can't fully replicate. But what works in my studio doesn't always translate directly to an outdoor shoot in Calgary. The terrain, the light, the wind, and the temperature all factor into what you wear.
Fabric First: Think Movement and Breathability
Flowing, lightweight fabrics — chiffon, georgette, soft linen blends — move with the environment and create that dreamy, effortless quality in images. When there's a breeze (very common in Calgary's open parks and river paths), a fabric with some float and movement becomes its own visual element.
Avoid very stiff fabrics — structured dresses that hold their shape indoors can look rigid and uncomfortable in outdoor settings. The rigidity competes with the natural environment.
For warmth: Lighter fabrics can layer. A chiffon gown over a simple fitted bodysuit handles Calgary spring and fall temperatures without looking bundled.
Colour and Location
Fish Creek Provincial Park: The dominant palette is green, gold, and earth tones (especially in fall). Warm neutrals — ivory, cream, camel — blend beautifully and let the landscape frame you. Deep burgundy or sage create beautiful contrast.
Prince's Island Park (downtown): A more urban feel — the skyline sometimes peeking through the trees. Editorial looks work here — deeper tones, more structured gowns.
Nose Hill Park: Open sky, golden prairie light, sweeping views. This is where long, dramatic gowns look extraordinary. Light colours glow in the open light.
Edworthy Park / Bow Valley: The river Bow, large cottonwood trees, natural paths. Organic, earthy tones — sage, warm beige, terracotta — feel absolutely native to the environment.
Confederation Park: Beautiful red maples in fall. Rich, warm tones (burgundy, forest green, mustard) coordinate magnificently with the fall colour.
Shoes: Practical and Beautiful
What works:
- Flat sandals or strappy flats — comfortable, photograph beautifully, easy on the terrain
- Simple sneakers or white shoes — for a more casual, lifestyle feel
- Ankle boots or block-heeled booties — great for fall sessions, add height without the instability of stilettos on uneven ground
What often doesn't:
- Stiletto heels on grass, gravel or uneven paths — beautiful but genuinely impractical
- Flip flops or very casual beach sandals — they tend to read as underdressed against an elevated gown
A good rule: if you're unsure, barefoot is always beautiful for a portion of an outdoor session.
Hair and Wind
Calgary wind is real. If you have long hair and we're shooting somewhere exposed — Nose Hill, Prince's Island on a breezy day, any riverside location — this matters.
- Loose, flowing hair: beautiful in wind, but there will be windswept moments. Can be gorgeous, or not, depending on the moment.
- Half-up styles or loose braids: my personal recommendation for outdoor sessions. Enough texture to look intentional, but enough control that you're not constantly brushing hair from your face.
- Full updo: completely wind-resistant and very elegant. Works beautifully for more formal, editorial outdoor looks.
The One Thing to Bring That Everyone Forgets
A small bag with: a compact mirror, blotting paper, a travel-size setting spray, and a straw (seriously — you can drink water without disturbing your lip colour). Your partner can carry it. A few quick touch-ups between location changes make a real difference.
FAQ
Can I bring multiple outfits to an outdoor session?
Absolutely, especially for longer packages. We often plan one or two looks — a formal gown for the artistic shots, and a more personal lifestyle look for relaxed, couple-focused images.
What if the weather changes on session day?
I monitor the forecast closely and will be in touch if we need to make a call. Light overcast sky is actually beautiful for outdoor photography — soft, even light with no harsh shadows.
Do I need to wear shoes the whole time?
Not at all. We often do a portion of the session barefoot — especially near water or on grass.
How long are outdoor sessions?
A typical outdoor session runs 60–90 minutes on location.
Want to see examples from my favourite Calgary outdoor locations? Check my portfolio or message me on WhatsApp to plan your session.
Fernanda Bautzer Photography · Outdoor & Studio Maternity Sessions · Calgary, AB.