One of the most common questions I get from expecting parents is:
“Where should we take our maternity photos?”
The location you choose has a major impact on the look and feel of your images. Some families want rolling hills and tall grass. Others want flowers, water views, or a location that’s easy to access without leaving Omaha.
After photographing families throughout Omaha and eastern Nebraska, these are the five outdoor locations I recommend most often.
If you’re still looking for a photographer, you can learn more about my Omaha maternity photography sessions here.
Quick Comparison of Omaha’s Best Maternity Photo Locations
| Location | Photography Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Schramm Park State Recreation Area | No photography fee. State park entrance fees may apply. | Variety and natural scenery |
| Hitchcock Nature Center | No photography fee. Admission may apply. | Scenic overlooks and sunsets |
| Lauritzen Gardens | $250 portrait session reservation fee | Flowers and garden backdrops |
| Chalco Hills Recreation Area | No photography fee | Water views and open space |
| Memorial Park | No photography fee | Convenience and classic Omaha scenery |
1. Schramm Park State Recreation Area
If you’re looking for the most variety in a single location, Schramm Park is my top recommendation.
The park offers:
- Tall grass fields
- Rolling hills
- Tree-lined trails
- Natural woodland areas
- Beautiful sunset light
Many maternity galleries can feel repetitive when they’re photographed in a single location. Schramm is different. The variety allows us to create multiple looks without ever leaving the park.
Best For:
Families wanting a natural and timeless outdoor setting.
Photography Fee:
No photography fee is currently required for maternity sessions. State park entrance fees may apply depending on current Nebraska Game and Parks regulations.
Location Website:
https://outdoornebraska.gov/location/schramm-park/
2. Hitchcock Nature Center
For dramatic scenery near Omaha, Hitchcock Nature Center is hard to beat.
The rolling hills and prairie views create images that feel much larger than Nebraska.
Why families love it:
- Scenic overlooks
- Open landscapes
- Beautiful sunsets
- Unique backgrounds
This location offers some of the most impressive views in the Omaha metro area and looks incredible during golden hour.
Best For:
Couples who want a more adventurous look.
Photography Fee:
No separate photography permit is currently required for standard maternity sessions. General admission fees may apply.
Location Website:
https://www.pottconservation.com/parks/hitchcock_nature_center/
3. Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens is one of Omaha’s most popular photography locations for good reason.
The gardens provide beautiful color and clean backgrounds throughout much of the year.
You’ll find:
- Seasonal flowers
- Walking paths
- Garden landscapes
- Elegant scenery
Every season offers something different, making it a great choice for spring, summer, and early fall maternity sessions.
Best For:
Families wanting a polished and refined look.
Photography Fee:
Lauritzen Gardens currently requires a portrait photography reservation. At the time of writing, the fee is $250 for up to two hours and includes admission for the group. Reservations are required in advance.
Location Website:
https://www.lauritzengardens.org
4. Chalco Hills Recreation Area
Chalco offers a little bit of everything.
Water views, open fields, mature trees, and easy walking paths make it one of the most versatile locations in the Omaha area.
Highlights include:
- Lake views
- Open grassy areas
- Walking trails
- Large mature trees
Sunsets here can be beautiful, especially during summer evenings.
Best For:
Families looking for variety without leaving the city.
Photography Fee:
No photography fee is currently required.
Location Website:
https://www.papionrd.org/recreation/chalco-hills-recreation-area/
5. Memorial Park
Sometimes the simplest locations create the best images.
Memorial Park provides open space, mature trees, and beautiful evening light.
It’s also one of the easiest locations for families with young children to navigate.
Highlights include:
- Open grassy areas
- Mature trees
- Easy accessibility
- Great sunset light
Best For:
Classic maternity photos with a clean and timeless look.
Photography Fee:
No photography fee is currently required.
Location Website:
https://parks.cityofomaha.org/parks/memorial-park
When Should You Schedule Maternity Photos?
Most maternity sessions take place between 28 and 34 weeks.
At this stage, your baby bump is typically well-defined while you’re still comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.
If you’re expecting twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, scheduling slightly earlier is often a good idea.
What Should You Wear for Maternity Photos?
The best maternity outfits tend to be simple and timeless.
I generally recommend:
- Neutral colors
- Solid fabrics
- Long dresses with movement
- Coordinated family outfits
Avoid large logos and busy patterns that can distract from the images.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maternity Photos in Omaha
Where are the best places to take maternity photos in Omaha?
Schramm Park, Hitchcock Nature Center, Lauritzen Gardens, Chalco Hills, and Memorial Park are some of the most popular locations for maternity photography in Omaha.
When should I schedule maternity photos?
Most maternity sessions take place between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.
What should I wear for maternity photos?
Neutral colors, solid fabrics, and outfits that highlight your baby bump tend to photograph best.
Is there a fee to take maternity photos at Lauritzen Gardens?
Yes. Lauritzen Gardens currently requires a portrait photography reservation fee. Check their website for current pricing and policies.
How long does a maternity session last?
Most maternity sessions last between 45 and 90 minutes depending on the location and whether family members are participating.
Do you photograph maternity sessions outside Omaha?
Yes. Many maternity sessions take place throughout eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, including Schramm Park and Hitchcock Nature Center.
Looking for an Omaha Maternity Photographer?
Choosing the right location is one of the biggest factors in creating maternity photos you’ll love for years to come.
Whether you’re drawn to the hills of Hitchcock Nature Center, the gardens at Lauritzen, or the sunset views at Schramm Park, I’d be happy to help you choose the location that best fits your vision.
Learn more about my Omaha maternity photography sessions and get in touch to start planning your session.
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