If you're searching for the best places for maternity photos near Orlando, Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont should be at the top of your list. This session with Amanda and Brandon captured everything I love about shooting here — rolling golden hills, soft evening light, and quiet, unposed moments between two people about to become parents.
Why Lake Louisa State Park Is One of My Favorite Maternity Photo Locations
Located about 30–40 minutes west of Orlando in Clermont, Florida, Lake Louisa State Park offers a variety of backdrops in a single visit — open golden fields, moss-draped oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and lakeside views. For maternity sessions specifically, I love this park because:
The open fields catch golden hour light beautifully, which is what gives these images that warm, glowing quality
There's enough variety in one location to get several distinct looks without driving between spots
It rarely feels crowded, which means a calm, unrushed session
The rolling terrain and tall grass photograph well against a flowing maternity gown
Amanda chose a flowing cream dress for this session, and the movement of the fabric in the breeze against the golden grass created some of my favorite frames from this gallery.
Planning Your Own Maternity Session at Lake Louisa
A few things to know if you're considering this location for your own maternity photos:
Best time to shoot: Golden hour — the last 60–90 minutes before sunset — is when this park truly comes alive. The light turns soft and warm, which is especially flattering for maternity portraits.
Entrance and permits: Florida State Parks charge a standard vehicle entrance fee, and professional photography sessions typically require a photography permit through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. I handle all of this as part of booking your session, so you don't have to worry about the logistics — just show up ready to relax and enjoy the evening.
What to wear: Flowing dresses in soft, solid colors (cream, sage, dusty blue, terracotta) photograph beautifully against the natural landscape here. I always am here to help guide my maternity clients before their session so you feel confident and prepared.
Best trimester: Most of my clients book between 30–34 weeks, when the belly is full and round but you're still comfortable walking the park's natural terrain.
About This Session
I first met Amanda during a branding shoot a while back, and she fell in love with the way I capture people — so when she and Brandon found out they were expecting, she knew exactly who she wanted to call. The two of them have been together for years, and this baby is something they've wanted for a long time. Getting to be there for this chapter, after already knowing Amanda's story, made the whole evening feel even more special.
We spent the golden hour walking the fields, pausing for quiet moments between Amanda and Brandon as they prepared to welcome their baby. My approach with maternity sessions is the same as with all my work — I'm not chasing perfect poses, I'm creating space for genuine connection and letting the moment unfold naturally.
Ready to Book Your Own Maternity Session in Orlando or Clermont?
I photograph maternity sessions throughout Orlando, Clermont, Winter Garden, and the greater Central Florida area. If you're expecting and dreaming of golden hour maternity photos in a beautiful outdoor setting, I'd love to talk with you about your session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Louisa State Park located? 7305 US Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34714 — about 30–40 minutes from downtown Orlando.
Do I need a permit for professional maternity photos at Lake Louisa State Park? Yes, Florida State Parks generally require a photography permit for paid professional sessions. As your photographer, I handle this process for you.
When is the best time for maternity photos at Lake Louisa? Golden hour, roughly 60–90 minutes before sunset, for the softest and warmest natural light.
How far in advance should I book? I recommend booking 4–6 weeks ahead, especially if you're hoping for a specific golden hour time slot during peak spring or fall season.
