One of the most exciting decisions in planning your maternity session is choosing the right location. Whether you’re drawn to lush outdoor landscapes or the clean elegance of a studio, your setting will shape the mood and storytelling of your photos. As a Vancouver-based maternity photographer working with luxury clients, I’m here to help you discover the best options to suit your vision, personality, and comfort.

Why Location Matters

The setting you choose adds depth and emotion to your photos. It reflects who you are and how you want to remember this fleeting but beautiful chapter of life. From natural light to intimate ambiance, each environment offers something special.

Outdoor Maternity Sessions – Natural Beauty and Epic Views

Outdoor sessions allow you to connect with nature while capturing glowing, golden-hour light and sweeping landscapes.

1. Pitt Lake – Majestic and Serene

Located in Maple Ridge, Pitt Lake is a stunning location with dramatic mountain backdrops, tall grasses, and open skies. It’s ideal for sunset sessions and dramatic, wide-angle shots.

2. Blackie Spit – Coastal Calm

This gem in South Surrey features sandy beaches, driftwood, and quiet shorelines. The soft, coastal light creates a dreamy aesthetic, perfect for romantic maternity portraits.

3. Whytecliff Park – Rocky Romance

Nestled in West Vancouver, Whytecliff Park offers ocean views, rugged cliffs, and a touch of adventure. Ideal for couples who love the ocean and don’t mind a short walk to scenic spots.

Pros of Outdoor Sessions:

• Stunning natural backdrops
• Ideal for movement and candid shots
• Seasonal variety (spring blossoms, fall foliage, golden sunsets)

Things to Consider:

• Weather unpredictability
• Longer travel times
• May require permits or access fees

Indoor Maternity Sessions – Comfort and Control

Indoor shoots offer a warm, curated experience with perfect lighting and privacy.

Benefits of Studio Sessions:

• Weather-proof and temperature controlled
• Access to changing rooms, props, and backdrops
• Intimate and minimalistic aesthetic
• Great for soft, fine art portraits or classic black & white imagery

When Studio Might Be the Best Fit:

• You prefer a timeless, editorial look
• You want privacy or have young children attending
• You’re in your third trimester and want a shorter, more relaxed shoot

Blending Both Worlds

Can’t decide? Many of my clients opt for a hybrid session. We begin in the studio for intimate, styled shots and then move to a nearby outdoor location for natural light and movement. This combination offers the best of both worlds.

What to Think About When Choosing Your Location

• Your Vision: Romantic, earthy, modern, or editorial?
• Comfort Level: Will walking or changing outdoors be a challenge?
• Wardrobe: Will your outfit work best in soft lighting or natural scenery?
• Time of Day: Golden hour outdoors vs controlled indoor light

Let’s Personalize Your Session

Every expecting mother is unique, and your maternity session should be too. I offer custom location consultations to help you select the space that brings your vision to life.

Still unsure? I’m always happy to show sample galleries from Pitt Lake, Blackie Spit, Whytecliff Park, or my studio to help you decide.

FAQs

1. What time is best for outdoor maternity sessions?
Golden hour (one hour before sunset) offers the most flattering, soft light.

2. Can I include both studio and outdoor looks in one session?
Absolutely. Hybrid sessions are popular and provide more variety in your gallery.

3. What if the weather changes suddenly?
I always monitor weather closely and have backup indoor options available.

4. Do you handle location permits?
Yes, I help manage any necessary permits or site access logistics for your shoot.

5. Are studio sessions still creative and unique?
Definitely! With the right lighting, wardrobe, and posing, studio photos can be just as dynamic and emotive as outdoor ones.