Outdoor Maternity Photos in a Field

Celebrating the Pizzano Family During Their Outdoor Maternity Photos

Story time! You all know I love a good story, and this one is too good not to share. I’ve had the honor of being welcomed by the Pizzano family to document some of their most special seasons of life. Last fall, I captured their annual fall family portraits at Lake Acworth, Well, literally the next day, the Pizzano family discovered they would be adding another member to their family! And here we are again, not even a year later, and now I am helping this wonderful family celebrate the arrival of their new addition! These are the moments that truly put the biggest smile on my face as a Georgia Family Photographer.

See the Pizzano’s family photos from last fall, here!

Are Maternity Photos Worth It?

Personally and professionally, my answer is always a resounding YES! As a mom myself, I truly value having this season of life documented—not just for my own memories, but to pass down from generation to generation. Here are a few reasons why I believe maternity photos are worth it:

• Celebrate the Journey: Pregnancy is an incredible experience, and soon-to-be moms are true warriors. These photos capture more than just a cute baby bump—they document the emotional and physical journey of bringing new life into the world.
• Cherish the Excitement: Maternity photos serve as a beautiful reminder to your child of how excited you were while anticipating their arrival. It’s a special way to share that joy with them in the future.
• Bonding Experience: A maternity photo session can be a wonderful bonding experience with your spouse and older siblings. It’s a perfect way to document the growing family and celebrate this new season of life together.

When You Should Schedule Maternity Photos

Photographers are genuinely busy, and I say this not to create fear but from experience. I’ve had to turn down families who try to book a session too close to their desired date, only to find it already booked. It truly breaks my heart. So, please, take it from me—book your maternity photos sooner rather than later.

From my experience working with soon-to-be moms, the sweet spot is shortly after your 12-week appointment. Spring and Fall are particularly busy seasons for photographers, regardless of their specialty. If you’re going to be in your third trimester during these times, make sure you secure a date early to capture this sentimental experience.

The Best Time to Take Maternity Photos and Why!

The best time to take maternity photos is usually between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Scheduling your maternity photos during this sweet spot ensures you capture the beauty of your pregnancy while still feeling comfortable and radiant! Here’s why:

1. Perfect Baby Bump: Around this time, your baby bump is beautifully round and just the right size for stunning photos.
2. Comfortable and Happy: Most soon-to-be moms still feel relatively comfortable between 28 and 36 weeks. The physical challenges of the last few weeks, like swelling and fatigue, haven’t fully kicked in, making it easier to enjoy your photo session.
3. Safety First: This period is generally safe for both you and your baby. Waiting too long can be risky as early labor might start unexpectedly.
4. That Pregnancy Glow: Many pregnant women feel a boost of energy and enjoy a special pregnancy glow during the third trimester, adding a natural radiance to your photos.

Best Locations for Capturing Outdoor Maternity Photos

Choosing the right location for outdoor maternity photos can truly enhance their beauty. I always share with the families that I work with to choose a location that makes sense for their family, and fits their style and personality. Here are a few locations that I believe are perfect for an outdoor maternity photoshoot:

• Botanical Gardens: Lush greenery and vibrant flowers create a serene backdrop.
• Parks and Nature Reserves: Open fields, wooded areas, and scenic trails offer versatility and natural beauty. The Pizzano family went with this option and I am truly in love with how fun, and candid these photos turned out!
• Beaches: Soft sand, gentle waves, and sunsets provide a romantic and dreamy setting!
• Urban Settings: Atlanta has unique architecture, beautiful urban parks for a more modern vibe.
• Mountains and Hills: North Georgia is absolutely beautiful and there are many locations that you can still see the beautiful mountains in the distance without the treacherous hike.
• Lakes and Rivers: You can’t go wrong with water features with reflective quality, with charming docks or bridges. A favorite lake of mine near Atlanta is Lake Acworth.
• Flower Fields: Colorful fields of wildflowers or sunflowers make for a stunning backdrop. I know a few places that would be perfect for this experience.
• Family Farms: Rustic barns and open fields add a charming, nostalgic vibe.
• Historic Sites: Elegant old buildings and historical settings offer timeless beauty. You can’t go wrong with Roswell, Georgia!
• Your Own Backyard: A personal space with a garden or patio can be intimate and special.

And, if you are needing help deciding where would be the best location for the experience that you are wanting, I am always happy to share location ideas that I personally love specifically for outdoor maternity photos!

The Sentimental Value of Taking Maternity Photos with an Older Sibling

Taking maternity photos with an older sibling adds a truly special layer of sentimental value.

1. Creating Memories Together: Including your older child in maternity photos helps them feel involved and connected to the upcoming addition to the family. These photos capture the bond that’s already starting to form between siblings.
2. Celebrating Family Growth: These photos are a beautiful way to celebrate your growing family. They document not just your pregnancy but also the excitement and anticipation of the older sibling.
3. Cherished Keepsakes: In the future, these photos will be treasured keepsakes for both you and your children. They capture a unique moment when your family dynamic is about to change in the most wonderful way.
4. Building a Sense of Belonging: Including your older child in the photo session helps them feel valued and included in the family’s journey. It reassures them of their important role in the family, even with the new baby on the way.

If you enjoyed the Pizzano’s family outdoor maternity photos and want to share it with your friends, or want to save this blog for later, simply hover over the images that you love and press “save.”

Looking for a photographer near Atlanta to document your growing family? I would be truly honored to help you celebrate this special moment in your life! And believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner, which means scheduling Christmas Minis will be happening VERY SOON! Join my email list here to be the first to know when those spots open up. My email list gets first access to book!