When you’re expecting a baby, every moment feels like a special milestone. The excitement, the anticipation, the joy—you want to preserve all of it. As a maternity photographer with 18 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless families to celebrate this beautiful journey. Over the years, I’ve learned that one of the most important elements in creating a meaningful maternity photo session is choosing the right location. The setting can elevate your photos, set the mood, and reflect the unique story of your pregnancy.
Here are some of my favorite spots that never fail to leave a lasting impression.
Nature’s Canvas: Outdoor Locations
There’s something about nature that brings out the best in maternity photos. Whether you’re drawn to the soft glow of a sunset or the vibrant colors of a blooming flower garden, outdoor settings offer a natural beauty that’s hard to beat.
- Golden Hour Magic: I’ve found that late afternoon or early evening sessions—just before the sun sets—create the perfect lighting for maternity photos. The soft, warm light wraps around you, giving everything a dreamy, ethereal feel. My clients often love the gentle glow it creates on their skin.
- Wooded Areas or Parks: Many of my clients enjoy having their photos taken in forests or nature trails. The variety of backdrops—greenery, trees, and open fields—allows for a lot of versatility. It’s especially perfect if you want to showcase the serenity of pregnancy in a peaceful, calming space.
- Beach Sessions: There’s a reason beach photoshoots are so popular. The vastness of the ocean, the rhythmic waves, and the soft sand can make for striking, intimate portraits. One of my favorite sessions was with a mom-to-be who wanted the beach at sunset. The combination of her flowing dress, the pastel sky, and the water was absolutely stunning.
In the Comfort of Home: A More Intimate Approach
Not every maternity shoot needs to be in an exotic outdoor location. In fact, some of the most beautiful and intimate photos I’ve taken have been in my clients’ own homes. Pregnancy is a personal experience, and there’s something magical about documenting it in the space where so many memories are about to unfold.
- Cozy, Bedroom Vibes: I love working in cozy, soft-lit bedrooms. It’s one of the most intimate spaces you can be in, and the light filtering through windows can be gorgeous. A simple flowy dress, paired with a serene setting, can tell a beautiful story without a lot of distractions.
- Nursery Inspiration: Some parents-to-be opt to have their maternity photos taken in the nursery before their little one arrives. The room, still a blank canvas filled with excitement and anticipation, adds such a personal touch. Plus, it’s an environment where you’re sure to feel comfortable and relaxed.
- Living Room Sessions: A living room can be transformed into a perfect photo setting with the right lighting and props. Clients have enjoyed taking photos on sofas or with family members gathered around. It creates a warm, loving atmosphere that translates well in photos.
Urban & Industrial: A Bold, Modern Vibe
For some, a more dramatic backdrop works wonders. If you love the energy of city life, urban locations might be the perfect fit for your maternity session. Think clean lines, modern architecture, and cityscapes.
- Downtown Streets: Urban maternity photoshoots can have such an edgy, fashionable vibe. With tall buildings, cobblestone streets, and city lights as the backdrop, it’s a striking contrast to the softness of pregnancy. One session I did near a row of coffee shops, with the bustling city in the background, really highlighted the modern side of becoming a parent.
- Industrial Settings: I’ve had clients ask for sessions in warehouses, on rooftops, or in front of brick walls. These places add a level of sophistication and creativity, making the final photos feel almost like a fashion editorial. The juxtaposition of a glowing mom-to-be against raw, textured backdrops creates a bold, memorable image.
Personal Touches: Locations with Meaning
Some of my most memorable maternity shoots have been in places that hold special meaning to the parents-to-be. These locations can be deeply personal and provide a level of connection to the photos that no other setting can.
- Family Farms: I’ve worked with couples who wanted to include the family farm in their maternity shoot. The large open fields, barns, and old wooden fences provided the perfect rural setting for their photos. There’s something beautiful about capturing a growing family in the place where generations before them have worked and thrived.
- Places You Love: If there’s a park you’ve walked through together, or a coffee shop where you had your first date, these places can hold a lot of sentimental value. My clients often tell me about the meaningful places that represent their love story or the excitement of the journey ahead. These sessions always feel intimate and genuine.
Making the Most of Your Location
While the location you choose is incredibly important, it’s not the only factor in creating stunning maternity photos. I always remind my clients to think about a few other things as well:
- Comfort is Key: Whether you’re shooting in a studio, a park, or your home, comfort is paramount. The more relaxed you are, the more natural your photos will look. I recommend wearing clothing that makes you feel beautiful and at ease, whether that’s a flowing gown or a simple dress.
- Timing Matters: Light plays a huge role in how your photos will turn out. For outdoor shoots, I always suggest scheduling during the early morning or late afternoon to catch the best natural light.
- Trust Your Photographer: As a maternity photographer, my job is to guide you through the entire process—from choosing the right location to helping you feel confident in front of the camera. I’ll be there every step of the way to ensure you look and feel amazing.
Where the Magic Happens
No matter the location, maternity photoshoots are about more than just taking pictures—they’re about celebrating a special moment in your life. As a photographer, I strive to create an experience that feels just as beautiful as the images themselves. So whether you choose an outdoor session under the golden sun, a cozy shoot at home, or a bold urban setting, I’ll work with you to bring your vision to life. The place doesn’t just hold the photos—it holds your story, your excitement, and your love for what’s to come.
And when it’s all said and done, you’ll have photos that will forever remind you of the incredible journey of becoming a parent.