Maternity Photo Locations Near Durham to Celebrate Your Pregnancy
Maternity photos aren’t just about showing a baby bump, they’re about telling the story of this unique season in your life.
That’s why I help clients choose a location that reflects who they are as a couple or family.
If you have been searching for maternity photo locations in the Durham area, you are in the right place. Finding the right setting for your maternity photos is about more than just a pretty background. It’s about choosing a place that feels like you. We’re lucky to have so many gorgeous, diverse spots within a short drive from Durham. Whether you’re drawn to nature, art, or open green spaces, there’s a location nearby that will tell your pregnancy story in a way that feels true to you.
But before we get to locations, have you scheduled your maternity photos yet? Here’s my advice of when to schedule your maternity photo session. Getting on the schedule is important because there’s a sweet spot for booking. Keep in mind you can always book with me even before choosing a location.
As a maternity photographer around Durham, NC, I’ve worked in many of these spaces with families who want photos that feel timeless, relaxed, and real. Below are a few of the best places for maternity photos near Durham, along with tips from real sessions to help you feel prepared.
5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Maternity Photo Location Near Durham
Before diving into specific spots, here are a few things to think about when picking the right place for your session:
Dog-Friendly Spaces – If your pup is part of your family story, make sure your chosen location allows dogs. Some parks and gardens welcome them (like NCMA), while others do not (Yates Mill).
Accessibility – Consider how easy it is to get around, especially if you’re later in pregnancy or bringing young kids. Look for locations with parking nearby, flat paths, or benches for breaks.
Seasonal Friendliness – Think about what the space looks and feels like in the season of your session. A shady wooded trail might be perfect in summer, while an open field glows beautifully in fall.
Privacy and Crowds – Some popular spots can be busy, which might make it harder to feel relaxed. Decide if you’d prefer a quiet, tucked-away area or don’t mind a little background activity.
Variety of Backdrops – If you want lots of different looks in one gallery, choose a location with multiple settings—like water views, fields, and paths all in one place.
If you want help deciding what location near Durham would be best for your professional maternity photo session, let me know! I’m happy to help guide you in the right direction.
#1. Yates Mill Historic Park – Nature, History, and Endless Variety
If you want a mix of scenic backdrops in one place, Yates Mill Historic Park is hard to beat. This 174-acre park in the southwestern part of Wake County offers water views, lush greenery, historic charm, and even a unique rock formation.
The star of the park is the old wooden mill building and dam with a waterfall, which creates a stunning focal point for portraits. But what I love most as a photographer is the variety. One minute we’re capturing the glow of sunset over the water, and the next we’re tucked into a shaded path surrounded by trees. For more information about Yates Mill County Park, check out this website.
From experience: I recently photographed a lifestyle maternity session here for a mom, dad, and their two-year-old son. We moved between several spots as the sun set, following the golden light as it lit up each area. That flexibility made the gallery feel layered and dynamic.
Tip: Wear something you feel beautiful in but that allows you to move easily. At that Yates Mill session, the mom wore a flowing dress with heels she could comfortably walk in, which meant she could navigate the stone steps and rock formations without worry.
#2. North Carolina Museum of Art – A Blend of Creativity and Calm
If you love art, wide open spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere, the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) is an amazing option.
The museum grounds include 164 acres of walking trails, shaded picnic areas, and large-scale art installations that make for striking backdrops.
One of the biggest perks of NCMA is how forgiving it is for scheduling. While golden hour is always beautiful, there are plenty of open shade areas that make this location work even if your session can’t happen at sunset, which is perfect for summer months when the heat can be intense or if you’re working around kids’ schedules.
I love pairing the open grassy areas with a pop of color from a client’s wardrobe, or using the museum’s unique structures for something modern and unexpected. Learn more about everything the park at NCMA has to offer on its official website.
Tip: If you’re planning to bring older siblings along, NCMA’s open space and kid-friendly paths make it easy for little ones to run and explore between shots.
#3. Dix Park – Skyline Views, Sunflowers, and Space to Breathe
For clients who want a mix of city and nature, Dix Park is an easy favorite. This 308-acre urban park offers a view of the Raleigh skyline, wide open fields, and historic brick buildings that add texture to your images.
One of the most magical times to shoot here is during the annual sunflower bloom in July. The tall, golden flowers create an incredible natural backdrop, which is especially special for moms expecting summer babies.
Because Dix Park is so open, the light changes quickly, which means golden hour here can be breathtaking. I often recommend we start with a shaded area or historic building and then move into the fields as the sun starts to drop. Discover more about Dorothea Dix Park here.
Tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes. The park is large, and we’ll likely walk to get the best variety of shots.
#4. Downtown Raleigh – Bold, Creative, and Full of Character
Downtown Raleigh has that creative, bold energy that photographs beautifully. Think colorful murals lining city blocks, striking historic facades, and urban streets that hum with vibrancy. Along Fayetteville Street, the mix of modern glass buildings and historic landmarks creates a dramatic backdrop for maternity portraits.
Don’t miss the Warehouse District, where industrial-chic buildings meet bold art installations. One favorite between these two areas is the “All Are Welcome” mural, which brings both color and meaning to a maternity session. These spots add striking contrast to soft, intimate moments, making your photos look alive and full of details that speak to your family’s growing story.
#5. Downtown Durham – Urban Grit Meets Artistic Flair
If your family feels at home in a place that blends history with a raw, artistic pulse, Downtown Durham is a fabulous option. Stroll down Geer Street or Peabody Street, where vibrant murals pop with color and brick warehouses lend depth and texture.
Near the American Tobacco Campus, you’ll find steel, brick, and water features that create variety in your photos while keeping that urban feel. Around Main Street, neon signage and restored facades give a nod to the city’s history, while colorful murals throughout downtown add pops of bold energy. These details make Downtown Durham a perfect choice for parents who want maternity photos that reflect the creative heart of their city.
How to Choose the Best Location Around Durham for Your Pregnancy Photos
Each of these best places for maternity photos near Durham has its own personality:
Yates Mill is perfect for variety and layered, story-driven galleries.
NCMA works beautifully if you want art, greenery, and flexibility in timing.
Dix Park offers unmatched open space and seasonal blooms.
When deciding, think about your personal style, the season, and how much walking you’re comfortable doing. And remember, your comfort is key. You’ll look and feel your best when you’re relaxed, able to move freely, and not worried about your outfit or the terrain.
These are some of the best maternity photo locations near me that combine nature, history, and art to give your session a timeless feel.
Your Session, Your Story
Maternity photos aren’t just about showing a baby bump, they’re about telling the story of this unique season in your life. That’s why I help clients choose a location that reflects who they are as a couple or family.
If you’re still deciding where to take your maternity photos, I’m happy to guide you through location options, timing, and styling so your gallery feels authentic and full of heart. You can see more of my work in my Maternity Photography Portfolio and if any of those photos inspire you, reach out so we can make your dreams come true too!