San Antonio is full of beautiful spots that make the perfect backdrop for lifestyle maternity photos—but not all locations are created equal. Over the years, I’ve photographed countless expectant moms and have narrowed down my favorite places based on lighting, natural beauty, privacy, and comfort. Whether you’re dreaming of an open field at golden hour, a shaded trail with trees, or the clean lines of an air-conditioned studio, I’ve got you covered.
In this post, I’m sharing my top recommended parks and studios for maternity sessions in San Antonio, Texas plus exactly what I look for when scouting the perfect photo location.
What I Look for in Choosing a Location for Your Maternity Photos:
Choosing the right location isn’t just about pretty scenery—it’s also about making sure my clients feel comfortable and confident throughout the session.
- I always look for spots with nearby bathrooms, because pregnancy comes with its own timeline and having access to a restroom can make all the difference.
- Easy terrain is important, too—nobody wants to be hiking uphill in sandals or low-heeled boots at 32 weeks pregnant.
- I also prioritize temperature control, whether that’s an indoor studio with A/C, a shaded park, or even a riverside spot with a breeze.
- Convenient parking is ideal so you’re not walking far with bags, water, or outfit changes.
- Speaking of outfits, if you want to wear something more revealing or change looks mid-session, I try to pick locations with enough privacy to allow that without extra eyes around.
Here are my go-to spots in San Antonio that check most, if not all, of these boxes.
1. San Antonio Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens is a great option for maternity photos because of its easy parking, restroom access, and ability to include various backdrops in one location. Though there is some walking involved to incorporate different sections of the gardens, it’s paved walkways and areas to sit to rest if necessary make it easy for women who are further along in their pregnancy. Another reason the Gardens is perfect for maternity photos is that you can use the grounds year-round. Flowers will always be in bloom no matter the season and there are indoor spaces for winter maternity sessions.
See more photos and info on the Blog
2. Landa Library
For a more classic look to your maternity photo sessions, I recommend Landa Library for its beautiful architecture and gardens. There’s no restroom (since sessions typically take place outside of library hours) but the grounds are small so there’s very little walking involved. It’s a central location, too, so the drive is likely going to be short for most people choosing this option. Landa is at its best during golden hour and in the Spring-Fall months because that’s when the garden is in bloom.
3. Confluence Park
For those looking for a unique backdrop, Confluence Park, south of downtown, is for you. The dome structure designed with environment in mind is one-of-a-kind here in San Antonio. The park prides itself of using native plants that survive our hot summers and our few freezes in the winter. Aside from the architectural elements, this spot has plenty of natural elements. There are steps leading down to the San Antonio River and plenty of vegetation for greenery and blooms year-round. What makes it great for maternity sessions in particular are the bathroom, water fountain, shaded areas, and short walk from parking lot to the park itself.
See more photos and info on the Blog.
4. Hardberger Park
This centrally located park is perfect for an expecting mom who wantsthose Hill County Views without leaving the city. There is plenty of parking (especially on weekdays), a restroom, and little distance from the parking lot to areas where you’d take photos. If you already have kids, you can reward them for their good behavior at a photo session with the nearby playground, too.
5. Studios:
If you’re pregnant during summer or winter and wanting to seek refuge from the weather, or if you’re looking for a more minimalist look for your maternity photos, you may want to consider a studio for your photo session. San Antonio has a few studios to choose from depending on your aesthetics, but I have two favorites: The Lumen Room and 1100 Collective, both located downtown.
Lumen Room
The benefits of the Lumen Room is they have an elevator and large bathroom. Both essentials when you’re 8 months along. But aside from that, their two studio spaces have beautiful natural light, furniture, and clean spaces. If you have little kids, there are very few distractions in the space, too.
1100 Collective
If you want some color to your photos, 1100 Collective is the best option for your session. You not only have the classic white wall, but you also have access to a grey brick wall, a rolling wall with a black backdrop and rotating color. And canvas backdrops are available to rent. The studio is location in a historic building which brings it own charm to the space, but also means there’s 3 flights of stairs. I prefer the studio in the afternoon for beautiful, dynamic lighting.
6. Maternity Photos In Your Home
You don’t have to venture far to find the best location for your maternity photos. You can stay in the comfort of your home. This is ideal during the summer or winter months when the weather is less agreeable for outdoor photos. It’s also a great way to incorporate the home you are building as a family. You can focus on one room or multiple spaces throughout your home, including a yard or neighborhood. In-home sessions are unique to each family and the best way to show off your personality and style. Your session can be as comfy or sexy as you want, too.
See tips on how to Prepare for an In-Home Session on the Blog. (geared towards newborn photos, but can be applied to any session)
Bonus: Parks Near San Antonio that are Ideal for Maternity Photos
If you’re willing to drive outside of San Antonio, or live on the outskirts of the city, these parks may be a great option for your Maternity Photo Session.
Cibolo Nature Center
There are a few features to this park that make it a perfect location for maternity photos. There is a decent sized parking lot at the entrance of the park for easy access, a restroom, and a creek to help cool you down in the warmer months. It’s also beautiful year round with green grass and a few blooms in the spring to trees changing color in the fall to tall brown grasses in the winter time.
See more photos and info on the Blog.
Joshua Springs Nature Preserve
Located outside of Boerne, this large park has a lot to offer for any photo session, but what makes it great for maternity photos is the restroom and beautiful spots within close proximity to the restroom. But if you’re comfortable with walking further distances, there is a lot of backdrop variety available to you during your session. It’s the best spot to get those hill country views without drive too far outside of San Antonio.
See more photos and info on the Blog.
No matter what location you choose, I ask that you practice Leave No Trace Principals at our parks. Be mindful of those around you and those who will visit after you. Let’s keep our parks and waterways beautiful!
Are you ready to Book Your Maternity Photos?
Now that you have an idea of where you’d love to have your maternity session take place, let’s get you booked! Visit my Maternity Session page to learn more about this experience with me. Then fill out my inquiry form to get started!
