Maternity photos are a beautiful way to capture the anticipation and joy of pregnancy, and Portland offers a variety of stunning locations to make those moments unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest or prefer something more urban and chic, Portland has it all. Here are some of the maternity photo locations near Portland, Oregon.
1. Forest Park – A Natural Wonderland
- Why It’s Great: Just minutes from downtown Portland, Forest Park offers a serene escape with lush greenery, towering trees, and winding trails. It’s perfect for those looking for a woodsy, tranquil setting.
- Best for: Couples who love nature and want a peaceful, intimate backdrop.
- Photo Opportunities: Glowing sunlight filtering through the trees, paths lined with moss, and beautiful, green ferns.
- Tip: Early morning or late afternoon provides the softest light, perfect for dreamy shots.
- https://www.portland.gov/parks/forest-park
2. International Rose Test Garden – A Floral Paradise
- Why It’s Great: Located in Washington Park, the Rose Garden is a quintessential Portland location, famous for its vibrant and fragrant roses. With over 10,000 rose bushes and stunning views of the city, it’s an ideal location for a maternity shoot that feels romantic, colorful, and timeless.
- Best for: Couples who want to capture the beauty of spring or summer in a classic, romantic setting.
- Photo Opportunities: Rows of blooming roses in a kaleidoscope of colors, sweeping city views from the terrace, and intimate moments among the blossoms.
- Tip: The peak bloom season is typically from late spring to early summer (May to June), but the garden offers gorgeous backdrops year-round.
3. Washington Park and the Portland Japanese Garden – A Touch of Elegance
- Why It’s Great: A beautifully landscaped space with manicured gardens, ponds, and scenic views of the city. The Portland Japanese Garden is one of the most tranquil and picturesque spots in the area, and it adds an element of elegance to any maternity shoot.
- Best for: Those who want a refined, peaceful setting with beautiful flora.
- Photo Opportunities: Classic Japanese garden elements like stone lanterns, serene water features, and vibrant greenery.
- Tip: Plan your visit during the spring or fall for the best foliage colors.
- https://japanesegarden.org/
4. Cathedral Park – Iconic Bridge and Natural Beauty
- Why It’s Great: Nestled beneath the famous St. Johns Bridge in North Portland, Cathedral Park is a truly iconic location for maternity photos. With its dramatic arches, lush greenery, and views of the Willamette River, the park offers a stunning blend of urban and natural beauty that’s perfect for capturing the magic of pregnancy.
- Best for: Couples looking for a more dramatic, urban setting with an architectural flair.
- Photo Opportunities: The St. Johns Bridge’s soaring arches create a dramatic frame for your photos, while the surrounding park offers plenty of green space, towering trees, and views of the river. Golden hour here is especially magical as the light pours through the bridge and creates a warm, glowing atmosphere.
- Tip: Because Cathedral Park is a popular location, it’s a good idea to visit early in the morning or during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Top Maternity Photo Locations Near Portland, Oregon
6. Sauvie Island – Rustic Charm & Open Fields
- Why It’s Great: Located just outside the city, Sauvie Island offers open fields, farms, and gorgeous views of the Columbia River. It’s an ideal place for a rustic, laid-back maternity shoot with wide-open spaces.
- Best for: Families who want a peaceful countryside vibe and beautiful sunset shots.
- Photo Opportunities: Wheat fields, rustic barns, and panoramic views of the river and mountains.
- Tip: If you want a rustic farm vibe, check out the local fruit orchards during harvest season!
7. Hoyt Arboretum – A Forest Escape Close to the City
- Why It’s Great: Nestled in the west hills of Portland, Hoyt Arboretum is a hidden gem offering a peaceful forest escape just minutes from downtown. With its diverse collection of trees, vibrant plant life, and scenic walking trails, it’s a perfect location for couples seeking a quiet, natural backdrop with a variety of textures and colors.
- Best for: Nature lovers who want a woodland setting that feels both serene and expansive.
- Photo Opportunities: Majestic trees, sun-dappled paths, and beautiful seasonal foliage. During autumn, the fall colors provide a stunning backdrop for photos.
- Tip: Visit during the spring or fall for the most colorful foliage, or in the winter months for a tranquil, quieter vibe.
Top Maternity Photo Locations Near Portland, Oregon
8. Portland Waterfront – Urban Meets Nature
- Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a modern, chic backdrop with a view, the Portland Waterfront offers both the beauty of the Willamette River and the skyline of Portland. It’s great for couples who want a combination of urban and natural elements.
- Best for: A blend of urban beauty with nature’s tranquility.
- Photo Opportunities: The iconic Hawthorne Bridge, riverside docks, and park benches with a view of the water.
- Tip: Sunset or golden hour is especially magical here as the city lights begin to glow.
9. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site – History Meets Natural Beauty
- Why It’s Great: Located just across the river in Vancouver, Washington, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site offers a blend of history, beautiful landscapes, and great photo opportunities. The historic fort, along with its charming gardens, open fields, and riverfront views, creates a unique backdrop for maternity photos with a touch of Americana.
- Best for: Couples looking for a mix of historical charm and scenic beauty.
- Photo Opportunities: The fort’s historic architecture, the lush gardens, old brick buildings, and open fields overlooking the river and the Portland skyline.
- Tip: The area is especially beautiful at sunset, with golden light reflecting off the river and the fort’s architecture. It also offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere compared to busier spots in Portland.
https://www.nps.gov/fova/index.htm
10. Lacamas Park – Lakeside Beauty and Tranquil Trails
- Why It’s Great: Located just outside of Portland in Camas, Washington, Lacamas Park is a picturesque location that features the beautiful Lacamas Lake, lush forests, and serene walking trails. It’s perfect for couples who want to capture the beauty of nature while enjoying a calm, lakeside environment.
- Best for: Those who want a combination of water views, forest scenery, and open spaces for their maternity session.
- Photo Opportunities: Reflections on the lake, scenic trails through wooded areas, and expansive fields with the lake in the background. The park is also a great spot for golden hour photos with the soft light reflecting off the water.
- Tip: The park is beautiful year-round, but if you visit in the fall, you’ll be treated to gorgeous autumn colors that complement the natural surroundings.
https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/lacamas-regional-park
11. Alberta Arts District – Urban Charm & Street Art
- Why It’s Great: For a more unique and urban maternity shoot, the Alberta Arts District offers colorful murals, fun street art, and an eclectic atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who want a lively, creative setting for their photos.
- Best for: Those who want a mix of street art, quirky shops, and Portland’s artistic flair.
- Photo Opportunities: Vibrant murals, fun graffiti walls, and funky alleyways.
- Tip: Visit during the golden hour for soft light that contrasts beautifully with the bold colors of the murals.
13. Washougal Waterfront Park – River Views and Scenic Vistas
- Why It’s Great: Located just across the river in Washougal, Washington, Washougal Waterfront Park is a hidden gem offering beautiful views of the Columbia River, expansive grassy fields, and peaceful walking paths. The park’s scenic riverfront location provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for maternity sessions that want a mix of nature and stunning water views.
- Best for: Those looking for a serene yet expansive riverside backdrop with wide-open spaces.
- Photo Opportunities: Picturesque views of the Columbia River, soft grasses, tranquil walking paths, and the distant mountains. The park’s wide-open areas also make for great photos at golden hour, with soft lighting and peaceful vibes.
- Tip: Visit during the early morning or evening for a more quiet experience, as the park can get busier in the afternoon. Sunset photos by the river create beautiful, warm tones perfect for a maternity shoot.
https://portcw.com/parks-trails/
Portland’s variety of stunning locations—from the natural beauty of Hoyt Arboretum and Lacamas Park to the iconic Cathedral Park and Washougal Waterfront Park—offers a perfect backdrop for every maternity photo session. Whether you want dramatic urban architecture, peaceful river views, or lush forest settings, each location brings something special to the table. These diverse and breathtaking spots will ensure your maternity photos capture the joy and anticipation of this incredible time in your life, making memories that will last a lifetime. If you are interested in booking a photographer for your maternity session, check out more of my work here https://gretchenbarros.com/maternity/
