Minneapolis Maternity Photoshoot | The Best Locations for Beautiful Maternity Photos

One of the very first questions I get after a maternity session is booked is, “Where should we take our photos?”

And honestly? It’s one of my favorite parts of the planning process.

The Twin Cities are filled with beautiful locations, and each one tells a slightly different story. Maybe you’re picturing tall golden grass glowing in the evening sun. Maybe you’ve always loved the peaceful feeling of being near the lake. Or maybe you’re drawn to the clean, modern look of downtown Minneapolis.

The best part is that there isn’t one “right” answer.

Your maternity session should feel like you.

As a Minneapolis maternity photographer, I always tell my clients that choosing a location isn’t simply about finding the prettiest spot. It’s about finding a place that fits your family, your style, and this season of life you’re about to step into.

And don’t worry if you have absolutely no idea where you want to go yet. That’s exactly what I’m here for.

So, How Do You Choose?

Before I ever send over location ideas, I like to ask a few simple questions.

Do you picture your photos feeling soft and romantic?

Do you love being surrounded by nature, or are you more drawn to a city setting?

Will your partner and little ones be joining us?

Your answers help me narrow everything down so your final gallery feels personal instead of looking like everyone else’s.

Because the truth is, the location is only the backdrop.

The real story is the anticipation, the tiny kicks, the excitement of meeting your baby, and the way your family already loves your newest little one before they even arrive.

If You Ask Me, I Love an Open Field

If you’ve spent any time looking through my portfolio, you’ve probably noticed that I have a soft spot for open fields.

There’s just something magical about them.

The tall grasses catch the evening light in the prettiest way, the colors stay soft and timeless, and there’s nothing distracting from the people who matter most.

They’re also wonderful if you’re bringing older siblings along. Kids have room to run, explore, and simply be themselves—which almost always leads to the sweetest moments.

Every season gives these locations a completely different feeling, from fresh greens in early summer to warm golden tones in the fall.

They’re simple, but they never go out of style.

Minnesota Lakes Have a Magic of Their Own

Living here, we’re lucky to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful lakes, and they make an incredible backdrop for maternity photos.

I love recommending lakeside sessions to families who want something peaceful and classic.

The light reflecting off the water creates the dreamiest glow, especially during sunset, and everything feels just a little slower by the shoreline.

If you’re hoping for photos that feel effortlessly Minnesota, a lakeside location is always one of my favorite recommendations.

Parks Are Perfect for Growing Families

If this isn’t your first baby, a park can be such a wonderful option.

Tree-lined paths, open spaces, and beautiful greenery create a setting that’s both timeless and practical.

Toddlers usually aren’t interested in standing perfectly still for an hour—and honestly, I don’t expect them to.

I’d much rather let them explore, snuggle up with you when they’re ready, and capture all of the little moments in between.

Some of my favorite images happen when everyone forgets about the camera for a minute.

Love a Clean, Editorial Look?

Not every maternity session has to take place outdoors.

A bright, natural light studio offers a clean, elegant space where the focus stays entirely on you, your growing family, and this special season of life.

With soft neutral tones, beautiful light, and no need to worry about the weather, studio sessions create timeless images that feel both classic and refined.

If you’re drawn to a more minimalist, editorial style, a studio maternity session may be exactly what you’re looking for.

When Should You Schedule Your Maternity Session?

I typically recommend scheduling your maternity photos between 28 and 34 weeks.

By then, your bump is beautifully visible, but most moms are still feeling comfortable enough to move, walk, and truly enjoy the experience.

If you’re expecting twins or your pregnancy is considered high-risk, we may decide to photograph your session a little earlier.

The earlier we begin planning, the more flexibility we’ll have when choosing your date and the perfect location.

Ready to Plan Your Minneapolis Maternity Photoshoot?

Pregnancy has a way of feeling both incredibly long and unbelievably short all at once.

One day you’ll be counting kicks and wondering what your baby will look like.

The next, you’ll be rocking them to sleep.

These photographs become a way to hold onto the anticipation, the excitement, and all of the quiet moments before everything changes.

If you’re beginning to plan your Minneapolis maternity photoshoot, I’d love to help you choose a location that feels like you and create images your family will treasure for years to come.

Start Planning Your Maternity Session

Can’t wait to capture this joyful season for you!

XOXO, Morgan