Where to Take Your Maternity Photos: A Beautifully- Feminine Outdoor Session in Minneapolis

This post is part of my Where to Take Your Maternity Photos series, where I share the beauty of capturing this special time in different settings — in-studio, outdoors, and at home. Each location brings its own unique feeling to your maternity photos, and today’s post is all about the beauty of capturing your photos outdoors.  As a Minneapolis maternity photographer, it’s my job to help you decide which option is best for you, so I hope you find these helpful!

I recently had the joy of photographing Lesly on a soft, serene early-October morning by the weeping willow trees at Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, and it was everything an outdoor session should be—elegant, peaceful, and full of natural light.  I love morning sessions at Lake of the Isles because it is so incredibly peaceful!  The sun rises behind the willow trees, and there are much fewer people at the lake than there would be at a golden hour session.  The sun reflects so beautifully on the lake – it’s seriously magical, and I highly suggest this option for outdoor maternity photos!/

Why choose an outdoor maternity session?

There’s something truly magical about maternity portraits captured outdoors. Here are a few reasons an outdoor session might be perfect for you:

1. Natural Light is Incredible.  

Outdoor sessions offer soft, flattering light that enhances the natural glow of pregnancy. Morning or golden hour light creates a dreamy, feminine atmosphere—just like what we captured with Lesly among the weeping willows.

2. Stunning Backdrops.  

Nature gives you endless beautiful options—from lakes and trees to gardens and open fields. At Lake of the Isles, the reflections in the water and the delicate branches of the willow trees created a romantic, ethereal setting for Lesly’s maternity portraits.

3. Space to Move and Flow

Outdoor locations give you room to walk, twirl, and interact naturally with your surroundings. Lesly’s flowing blue and white floral maxi dress moved beautifully in the soft morning breeze, adding life and elegance to every image.

4. Seasonal Variety

I love outdoor maternity sessions- but especially in spring and summer!  This is where you can wear beautiful, flowy dresses and the scenery is filled with flowers and pretty trees.  Fall is also a great time, but as the weather turns cooler I recommend taking it indoors – or your puffy coats will not quite show off your baby bump!  

Planning Your Outdoor Session

When planning an outdoor maternity session, I consider a couple elements to make the session as seamless and comfortable as possible:

Timing: I always shoot outdoor maternity photos one hour after sunrise, or 1.5 hours before sunset (golden hour).  This is when light is soft and flattering and give you the beautiful glow that we all desire.

Location: I like to help my clients choose locations that are peaceful and beautiful. Lesly’s session by the weeping willows was serene and intimate, perfect for capturing her glowing maternity look.  I provide an online Location Guide to all clients upon booking, and together we select a location that works with your vision and vibe!

What to Wear for an Outdoor Maternity Session

Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully in outdoor settings. Creams, beiges, soft grays, muted blushes, and light blues keep the look timeless and let emotion take center stage. These shades reflect light gently, creating an elegant and cohesive feel that complements natural indoor lighting.

If you’re expecting a boy, soft blues and tans create a classic, peaceful tone. If you’re expecting a girl, warm creams and blush tones add a gentle, romantic touch. And if you’re keeping the gender a surprise, earth tones — ivory, oatmeal, or taupe — are always lovely and organic.

The AWP Client Wardrobe

When you’re pregnant, it’s not necessarily the best time to go out and buy new outfits for photos! Do not worry- I offer a Client Wardrobe filled with beautiful, flowy dresses that are all maternity-friendly. This is a premium offering that I offer free of charge! This is something I discuss with clients upon booking, and it’s a favorite part of the experience for many. 🙂

Creating Timeless, Emotional Images

My goal for every maternity session — whether it’s in-home, in-studio, or outdoors — is to create images that feel heartfelt and timeless. I want you to look back and remember not just what this season looked like, but what it felt like.  My style is soft, elegant, and feminine.  If this is the vibe you’re going for we will be great together!

In Lesly’s session, the quiet peacefulness of Lake of the Isles in the morning just set the scene for us.  The sun glowing across the lake and through the willow trees added to the ethereal feel, and Lesly’s elegant blue and white dress was the icing on the cake.  All of these factors came together effortlessly (and might I add, they were all planned in advance to set the vibe!).  This is something that I discuss with my clients in detail to ensure it’s all pulled together.

Which Location is Best for Me?

Lesly’s photos were perfect for her, and matched her vision.  If you’re deciding where to take your maternity photos, think about what setting feels most you. Whether that’s in the studio, outdoors surrounded by nature, or in the comfort of your own home, each offers something beautifully unique.  

This outdoor session is one part of my Where to Take Your Maternity Photos series.    Be sure to check out the other posts of the series, which I have linked for you below!

Kaia’s Elegant Studio Session

Molly & Logan’s In-Home Session

Maternity Sessions With Angela

If you’ve been thinking about booking your own maternity session, this is the perfect time. Maternity photos are best taken between 28 and 34 weeks, when your belly is beautiful and you’re still feeling comfortable. I’ll help you plan every detail — from wardrobe and styling to location and timing — so your experience feels completely seamless.

If you’re expecting in 2026, now is the perfect time to reserve your spot. Visit my Maternity Website HERE!

I hope to meet you soon!

xo,

Angela