Best Maternity Photoshoot Locations in Atlanta, GA
Known as the birthplace of Coca-Cola and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Atlanta is a big city with a small-town mindset. Georgia’s capital and most populous city is home to many historic sites, landmarks, parks, wildlife areas, and inner-city attractions, making it the perfect place to host a maternity photoshoot.
Whether you’re planning an outdoor maternity photoshoot or looking for a cozy indoor spot, you won’t have to look far to find a photogenic backdrop. Check out our guide to planning a unique maternity shoot in beautiful Atlanta, GA.
There are many photo-worthy spots around Atlanta if you know where to look. Here are our top picks for the best pregnancy photoshoot locations in Atlanta, GA.
1. Piedmont Park
Just a short stroll from Stonehurst Place in Midtown is Piedmont Park. Here you’ll find acres of green space, paved pathways, rolling hills, and a central lake. Dogwood flowers bloom in the springtime and the trees display their warm colors in the fall.
2. Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
In the middle of urban Southwest Atlanta, you’ll find Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, a 120-acre nature preserve with wooded areas throughout and a tranquil waterfall.
3. Roswell Mill
For a nominal $50 permit fee, you can gain access to Roswell Mill for your maternity photography session. The scenic landmark features a covered bridge, man-made waterfall, and historic mill. Roswell Mill offers gorgeous nature shot opportunities and has bathrooms – a must for expecting moms.
4. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Located next to Piedmont Park is the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The conservation park has more than 30 acres of developed and maintained plant collections that would make an awe-inspiring backdrop for your maternity photos.
5. Turnipseed Farms
Just south of Atlanta is Turnipseed Farms, a paradise for painters and photographers. Here you’ll discover lovely gardens, arches, benches, swings, and other things that will add instant beauty to your pregnancy photography.
6. Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is home to thousands of sea creatures and countless interesting exhibits. If marine life holds a special meaning for you, consider snapping some photos at the aquarium, especially while wearing one of our designer mermaid-style dresses.
7. Arabia Mountain
Arabia Mountain is a natural wonder located just east of Atlanta along I-20. Of course, you don’t actually have to climb the mountain to get some incredible pictures for your pregnancy memory book.
8. Sope Creek Papermill Ruins
While the paper mill at this location was destroyed by Union troops during the Civil War, the charming destination is still picture-perfect with its glassy pond and lush trees.
9. Historic Fourth Ward Park
The Historic Fourth Ward Park is a recent addition to the Atlanta community. This former industrial area has a lot to offer, from its colorful foliage to its modern-designed pond.
10. Dunwoody Nature Center
If you desire a backdrop with plenty of greenery, then choose the Dunwoody Nature Center as your photoshoot destination. The Center is breathtaking with its creek, gardens, swings, and park piano, making it the perfect backdrop to show off your maternity photoshoot dress.
How to Find a Maternity Photoshoot Photographer
Pregnancy is a time of celebration as you await the birth of your precious child. You’ll want to document the process from start to finish, which typically includes scheduling a maternity photoshoot with a professional photographer. When choosing a maternity photoshoot photographer, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Start the Search Early – Ideally, you should begin looking for a maternity photoshoot photographer in your first trimester. Research different photographers in your area and ask for recommendations from friends and family.
- Invest in a Specialist – While many photographers are capable of taking maternity photos, it’s best to choose a photographer who specializes in maternity photography. Experienced shooters will know the most flattering angles of the pregnant body and how best to focus on the belly.
- Establish a Budget – It’s easy to get carried away when looking at photo packages, props, and photo products; however, charges can add up fast. Set a budget from the start and stick to it.
- Pick the Right Style – Everyone has their own photography style, from classic black and white to creative and colorful. Consider what style you gravitate to and find a maternity photographer that will best suit your needs.
- Check Experience Level – While many talented photographers are new to the business, it’s best to stick with someone with years of experience for peace of mind.
- Consider Personality – While a person’s quality of work goes a long way, most expecting moms want to work with a photographer that they can feel at ease with. Opt for a photographer who has a friendly and laidback personality.
What to Wear for a Maternity Photoshoot
Choosing the perfect outfit for a maternity photoshoot is no easy feat. The goal is to find a pregnancy photoshoot dress that gives you the most flattering silhouette. Ideally, the maternity gown should provide a clear outline of your growing belly with a flowy skirt that provides ample movement.
Mama Bump Rentals is where you’ll find some excellent options for maternity dresses for photoshoot sessions. Kathryn by J&L Designs Boutique creates a bold statement with its curvy, soft stretch dress with a classical empire waistline and detached chiffon train that floats in the air.
Emerlie by Sew Trendy Accessories is another gorgeous maternity gown rental that is perfect for photoshoots in any season. The slim-fitted gown with sweetheart top and off-the-shoulder sleeves embraces every curve just right. If you want a maternity dress with a long tail and a straight neckline, Aphrodite by J&L Designs Boutique is an elegant choice. This silhouette-style gown hugs the body perfectly and offers a lot of stretch.
If you’re really looking to make a dramatic impact, you’ll want a maternity dress photoshoot rental that instantly draws attention. Mama Bump Closet’s Penelope is a whimsical maternity photoshoot dress rental with its soft ruffles, scallop sweetheart neckline, folded chiffon overlay, and corset back.
There is no right or wrong when it comes to pregnancy dresses. When choosing a maternity dress rental, envision what you want your guests to see when they open their pregnancy announcement photos. Maybe it’s you in a designer maternity gown in soft velvet or a maternity formal gown with a long chiffon train. No matter your style, you’re likely to find the perfect maternity dress rental online at Mama Bump.
The Best Poses for a Maternity Photoshoot
While your maternity photographer will likely provide guidance on how to stand during your photoshoot, it’s a good idea to look at some poses you might want to try. Start with some basic poses, such as a front view with mom cradling her belly, lying down with hands on either side of your bump, or standing to the side to achieve a belly profile picture.
While your maternity photographer will likely provide guidance on how to stand during your photoshoot, it’s a good idea to look at some poses you might want to try. Start with some basic poses, such as a front view with mom cradling her belly, lying down with hands on either side of your bump, or standing to the side to achieve a belly profile picture.