Maternity photos are a beautiful way to celebrate the journey to parenthood, and Wisconsin offers an incredible variety of scenic backdrops for capturing this special time. Whether you dream of a golden sunset in a rolling field, the elegance of a historic downtown, or the intimacy of an in-home session, there’s a perfect location for every style and season.

Here’s a look at the different types of landscapes Wisconsin offers, plus a bonus list of 10 of people’s favorite maternity photoshoot locations across the state.

Wisconsin’s Unique Landscapes for Maternity Photoshoots

1. Parks & Forests

Wisconsin’s lush parks and dense forests provide a natural, peaceful atmosphere for maternity photos. Whether in the rich greens of summer or the vibrant hues of fall, these locations bring an organic, earthy feel to your images. Best for: Nature lovers and those who want soft, romantic images surrounded by trees.

2. Fields & Open Countryside

Rolling fields, golden wheat, or tall wild grasses create a soft, dreamy aesthetic that’s perfect for capturing the essence of motherhood. These locations often provide breathtaking golden-hour lighting and work well in spring, summer, and fall.

3. Lakes & Beaches

Wisconsin’s lakeshores and sandy beaches offer serene, light-filled settings with reflections on the water and endless skies. Whether you choose Lake Michigan’s vast horizon or a quiet Northwoods lake, this setting adds an element of calm and timeless beauty. Best for: Flowing dresses in the breeze, and maybe getting adventurous in the water.

4. Downtown & Urban Settings

For a more modern or vintage feel, downtown settings like Wausau, Madison, or Milwaukee provide unique textures, think historic brick, colorful murals, and charming alleyways. This option is great for couples who want a stylish, city-chic maternity session with a mix of bold and intimate moments.

5. In-Home Sessions

Sometimes, the most authentic and meaningful maternity photos happen right at home in Wisconsin. Cozy, intimate, and deeply personal, in-home sessions capture the nesting period in a relaxed environment where you already feel comfortable. Perfect for: Parents-to-be who want to document the beauty of everyday life before their baby arrives.

6. Gardens & Orchards

For a whimsical and romantic look, Wisconsin’s gardens and orchards offer stunning seasonal blooms in spring and summer, while apple orchards provide a cozy, warm-toned setting in fall. Perfect for: Floral lovers and those who want soft, colorful backdrops or to add in one of their favorite spots.

7. Snowy Winter Wonderlands

If you love the magic of snow-covered landscapes, a winter maternity session in a Wisconsin forest, on a frozen lake, or near an evergreen-lined trail can be stunningly unique. Best for: Those who don’t mind the cold and want a breathtaking, ethereal look.

BONUS: 10 Favorite Maternity Photoshoot Locations in Wisconsin

1. Rib Mountain State Park (Wausau)

With panoramic views, rugged rock formations, and dreamy sunsets, Rib Mountain is a favorite for maternity sessions. The changing fall foliage makes it especially breathtaking in September and October.

2. Downtown Wausau

For a mix of urban charm and historic architecture, Downtown Wausau offers cobblestone streets, murals, and cozy coffee shop nooks that make for stylish and intimate maternity photos.

3. Oak Island Park (Wausau)

Located along the Wisconsin River, Oak Island Park has scenic bridges, walking trails, and lush greenery that create a peaceful and natural backdrop for maternity sessions.

4. Door County’s Coastal Beauty

With its quaint harbors, lighthouses, and Lake Michigan views, Door County is a dream location, especially in summer and fall. Places like Cave Point County Park provide dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue waters for breathtaking maternity photos.

5. Minocqua’s Northwoods Lakes & Trails

If you love the idea of tall pines, crystal-clear lakes, and rustic wooden docks, Minocqua’s lakes and trails provide a tranquil, nature-filled maternity session location.

6. Devil’s Lake State Park (Baraboo)

Devil’s Lake offers a striking mix of water, cliffs, and forest that create a dramatic yet peaceful backdrop. It’s a favorite for adventurous couples who want to incorporate nature’s grandeur into their session.

7. Big Bay Beach at Madeline Island

For an ocean-like feel right in Wisconsin, Madeline Island’s Big Bay Beach is a hidden gem with soft sands, clear waters, and scenic beauty, perfect for maternity photos at sunrise or sunset.

8. Green Bay Botanical Garden

For lush floral backdrops and manicured beauty, the Green Bay Botanical Garden provides a colorful, fairytale-like setting, especially in spring and summer.

9. Lake Geneva’s Waterfront & Historic District

Lake Geneva’s charming waterfront and historic mansions offer an elegant and sophisticated setting, blending nature with classic architecture. Perfect for timeless, romantic maternity portraits.

10. Pewit’s Nest (Baraboo)

A stunning hidden gem with cascading waterfalls, mossy cliffs, and winding streams, Pewit’s Nest is an incredible maternity photoshoot location for those who love an ethereal, woodland-inspired look.

Choosing Your Perfect Wisconsin Maternity Session Location

Whether you’re drawn to golden fields, peaceful lakes, vibrant downtowns, or the coziness of your home, Wisconsin offers incredible backdrops for every maternity style and season.

I help expectant parents choose the perfect location that reflects their personality, comfort, and vision, ensuring a stress-free and beautifully authentic maternity session. All of my clients receive my Location Guide to help us plan; whether it’s one of my scouted locations or a place that’s meaningful to you - I’m here to help make your session location choice easy and beautiful!