Delaware Maternity Photographer shares her top 10
Maternity Photography Locations in New Castle County, Delaware
Maternity photography is a beautiful way to capture the love and anticipation that comes with welcoming a new life into the world. As a Wilmington, Delaware maternity photographer, I know that choosing the perfect location for your session can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or have young children to consider. If you're in New Castle County, Delaware, you're in luck—there are so many gorgeous and fun spots to choose from!
I try my best to make sure that my maternity photography locations are easily accessible, family friendly, have convenient parking, and make for stunning backdrops that reflect your unique journey. Whether you envision the timeless charm of an historic estate, the elegance of formal garden or the wild beauty of a naturalized garden, the expanse of an open meadow, the intimacy of a forest, neutral backdrop of an indoor natural light studio, or the cozy comfort of your own home, New Castle County offers a variety of locations to fit your style and needs. Here are some of the best spots for capturing beautiful maternity photos.
1. Judge Morris Estate
For a touch of history, Judge Morris Estate in Newark is a fantastic choice. This charming 18th-century estate, surrounded by meadows, woodlands, and walking trails, provides a romantic setting. Down a short tree-lined path, the historic home offers a variety of backdrops including a naturalized butterfly garden, white picket fences with chippy paint, and rolling hills beyond. There is also a barn ruin on the property which is a lot of fun (and perfectly safe) for kids to explore. It features stone walls and a rustic gate. In the summer months, the meadows are green and lush and in the fall, they turn tawny as the grasses dry-- the texture is beautiful. The above session was photographed in the meadow on an atmospheric, late September misty evening.
2. Valley Garden Park
If you're looking for a fairy-tale-like setting, Valley Garden Park in Greenville is the perfect spot. This hidden gem boasts rolling hills with a trickling brook, a picturesque bridge, and a variety of seasonal flowers through out the year. The ever-changing foliage makes it an ideal location no matter the season—in the spring there are blooming trees and a hillside covered with daffodils, there are vibrant greens in summer, and gorgeous golden tones in fall (as well as an unexpected carpet of fall-blooming purple crocus), and there is a chance for a peaceful, snow-dusted landscape in winter. I love bringing families with small children here because the paved path is perfect for strollers. This is my family's go-to summer picnic spot. The above session was photographed at the height of fall colour in late October.
3. Brandywine Creek State Park, Thomspon's Bridge
For those who love to play at the creek, Brandywine Creek State Park at Thomspon's Bridge is a great option. There is even a proper restroom in the parking lot! There is a paved trail that leads to a wooded path which opens on a rocky beach along the creek bank. The creek is very shallow at this spot so families can play together in the water and it is perfect for skipping stones! I love to recommend summer creek sessions in for families with older children. It is a natural space that invites play and makes for fun memories. Just have a change of clothes on hand because your kids are going to get wet!
4. Brandywine Creek State Park, Adam's Dam Rd
For those who love open spaces and natural beauty, Brandywine Creek State Park offers breathtaking scenery. This is my most requested location for maternity photos. The vast rolling meadows are peaceful (and I have even seen deer and other wildlife during sessions on occasion). When you want a golden-hour glow in the fields this park provides plenty of beautiful, natural light. It is my favorite Wilmington sunset spot. Low stone walls perimeter the meadoes, making the perfect place to sit and watch the sun sink below the horizon after your session.
4. Goodstay Gardens
Goodstay Gardens in Wilmington is my favorite "secret garden" in the city. Walking through the wrought iron gate feels a bit like stepping into a storybook. This historic garden is volunteer maintained (they are so friendly and knowledgable-- I reccomend saying thank you for thier effort if you see them at work during your visit!) The garden is situated on the Wilmington campus of the University of Delaware, and features charming stone pathways, stone walls, and a collection of exotic and seasonal blooms that add a romantic feel to your session. There are magnolias and tulips in early spring, iris and peony in later spring, and roses thoughout summer. There are also large boulders which are fun for kids to climb on when they need a break from photos. If you would like to learn more about goodstay, feel free to read this blog post HERE.
Auburn Valley State Park
Auburn Valley State Park in New Castle County, is perfect for a maternity session. With its rolling meadows, charming bridges, and the scenic Red Clay Creek, this park provides a serene and romantic backdrop. I'm all about a creek romp, especially in the hot summer. Water invites play and makes photos fun, even for toddlers.
6. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
Nothing says spring like Winterthur's breathtaking naturalized gardens in full bloom. From the iconic March Bank, where thousands of bluebells, snow drops, and other spring ephemerals create a dreamy carpet of color, to the gold fish ponds surrounded by lush greenery, and the azealea woods, as well as the gorgeous architecture of the mansion, every corner of Winterthur feels like a scene from a fairy tale. The Enchanted Woods also provide a whimsical, interactive setting, perfect for a family with older children. Because the grounds are so vast, I typically recommend deciding on one or two locations to be the focus of the session. There is a curtesy shuttle that can pick you up and take you back to the parking lot, or you can stay for a tour of the house or the museum and make a day of it. Families are responsbile for paying entrace fees to the estate, Winterthur members are free.
7. UD Botanical Gardens
For a floral backdrop, the University of Delaware Botanical Gardens in Newark is an often overlooked location for maternity photography. With blooming sunflowers in summer, charming garden pathways, and unique plant collections, this location offers a diverse range of natural scenery-- plus cows! The expiemental garden is planted right next to the Agriculture Department's cow pasture which delights small chidlren every time. The UDairy Creamery is the perfect way to turn your maternity photos into a date night and satisfy pregnancy cravings for ice cream. My favorite flavor? Grandma's Gone Coco-nuts-- Coconut ice cream with toasted coconut, toasted pecans, semisweet chocolate chunks and a graham cracker swirl. Yum!
8. Lums Pond State Park
If you’re looking for easy walking, pond views, backlit grassy meadow, and wooded trails, Lums Pond State Park in Bear, Delaware is a great location for maternity photos. The calm waters of the pond create a serene and reflective backdrop, in any season. Whether you want a romantic sunset shoot by the water, a peaceful forest setting, or a location with space for your older kids to run around and be themselves, Lums Pond offers a variety of stunning natural scenes to complement your maternity session.
9. Blackbird State Forest
For an earthy, secluded walk in the woods, Blackbird State Forest is perfect. I typically take families to the tybout Tract Trail which boast a short loop with an even gravel path. Towering white pine trees carpet the ground in russet needles which are soft and fragrant underfoot. There is nothing better than the smell of sun-warmed pine needles! I especially love photographing maternity sessions here in early spring when the deciduous trees bud in fresh green. It is so peaceful all year and a favorite short nature trail of my family!
10. Petite Social Studio
If you’re looking for an indoor option with a modern and minimalist aesthetic, Petite Social Studio in Delaware City is a fantastic choice. This beautifully curated studio space provides the perfect backdrop for elegant and timeless maternity portraits. With soft natural light, neutral-toned decor, and cozy furnishings, this studio offers a warm and intimate feel, allowing the focus to stay on you and your growing baby bump. *The studio can be rented for an additional fee.
11. The Comfort of Your Own Home
Sometimes, the most meaningful location is the one where you feel most at ease—your own home. In-home maternity sessions offer an intimate and personal way to document this special time. Whether it's cozying up on the couch, standing your nursery or bedroom window, or relaxing in your backyard, capturing moments in your own space creates photos that are uniquely yours. Plus, it's a great option if you want a relaxed and stress-free experience.
Choosing the Right Location for You
When selecting a location for your maternity session, consider what setting makes you feel the most comfortable and connected. Do you love the idea of a grand estate, a quiet garden, or the wide-open beauty of nature? Or do you prefer the warmth and familiarity of home? No matter your preference, New Castle County, Delaware offers a variety of stunning options to make your maternity photos truly special.
If you're expecting and looking for a maternity photographer in Delaware, I'd love to help you capture this incredible chapter of your life. Let's chat and find the perfect location for your session! Inquire HERE
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