Best Outdoor Locations in Monmouth & Mercer County, NJ for Maternity & Family Photos
New Jersey Maternity Photographer
Hi, I’m Ekaterina, a maternity and family photographer based in Wall, NJ. While I now specialize in creating timeless studio portraits, my photography journey began outdoors—capturing expecting mothers and families in some of the most beautiful natural locations New Jersey has to offer.
Over the years, I’ve photographed maternity and family sessions across Monmouth and Mercer counties, learning which locations photograph beautifully in different seasons, lighting conditions, and stages of pregnancy.
In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite outdoor locations for maternity and family photoshoots in Monmouth and Mercer County, NJ—perfect if you’re looking for natural, elegant backdrops and a relaxed outdoor experience.
Monmouth County Locations
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Located in Freehold, NJ, Monmouth Battlefield State Park is one of my favorite locations for maternity and family photography in Monmouth County. The wide open fields create a clean, timeless look that photographs beautifully year-round.
This location is especially stunning at sunset, with soft golden light that flatters expecting mothers and creates a calm, emotional feel. Because of the open space, it works well for flowing maternity gowns, family movement, and children who like room to explore.
Best for:
Sunset maternity sessions
Neutral, nature-focused images
Families with young children
Fall and summer sessions
Holmdel Park
Holmdel Park is a beautiful option for maternity and family photos in New Jersey, especially during spring and early summer. The park offers a mix of open fields, tree-lined paths, and a peaceful pond that adds variety to your gallery.
One of the highlights is the park’s arboretum, which provides seasonal blooms and textured greenery—perfect if you want a softer, romantic outdoor feel while still keeping things natural.
Best for:
Spring maternity sessions
Soft, romantic outdoor portraits
Families looking for variety in one location
Maternity Photoshoot NJ
Mercer County Locations
Sayen Gardens
Sayen Gardens in Hamilton, NJ is one of the most picturesque locations in Mercer County for maternity and family photos. With manicured gardens, bridges, gazebos, and seasonal flowers, it offers a refined outdoor setting that feels elegant without being overly formal.
This location is especially popular for maternity sessions during peak bloom seasons and works beautifully for clients who want a polished outdoor look.
Best for:
Spring and summer maternity sessions
Floral backdrops
Elegant outdoor portraits
Princeton University
Princeton University provides a timeless, architectural backdrop for maternity and family photography in New Jersey. The historic buildings, archways, and landscaped grounds create a classic look that works beautifully in every season.
This location is also convenient for families traveling from out of state, with nearby hotels and walkable areas that allow for a relaxed session experience.
Best for:
Editorial-style maternity portraits
Fall and winter sessions
Clients who love architecture and classic imagery
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Maternity & Family Photos in NJ
When is the best time for an outdoor maternity photoshoot?
The ideal time is between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy, when your bump is beautifully defined and you’re still comfortable enough to move and enjoy the session.
What should I wear for an outdoor maternity session?
Flowing dresses photograph beautifully outdoors. I help all my clients with wardrobe planning and offer access to my curated maternity wardrobe.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
Outdoor sessions are always planned with flexibility in mind. If needed, we can reschedule or transition to a studio session at my Wall, NJ studio.
Hi! Thank you for checking out my work here at my website and blog.
If you’re expecting and looking for the perfect outdoor location for your maternity photos, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels natural, effortless, and true to you.
I’m currently booking maternity, newborn, family, and milestone sessions throughout Monmouth County, Mercer County, and surrounding areas.
You can view my maternity and newborn portfolio HERE, or contact me contact me to begin planning your session.
~Ekaterina Vachino Photography,
NJ Maternity Photographer, NJ Newborn Photographer, and NJ Family Photographer. Our studio is located in Wall, NJ.
Serving Central NJ, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Middlesex County, Mercer County as well as other parts of New Jersey upon request.
Follow me on Instagram.
