A Winter Wonderland: Maternity Photography in Washington Park, Cincinnati

There’s something magical about a maternity photoshoot on a crisp, cold day—especially in the heart of Cincinnati’s Washington Park. The contrast of a glowing mother-to-be against the muted winter landscape creates an atmosphere of warmth and beauty that is simply unforgettable.

Recently, I had the joy of capturing a stunning maternity session on a chilly afternoon at Washington Park. While the temperature hovered just above freezing, the love and excitement radiating from this expecting couple warmed the entire session. Bundled up in a flowing gown and cozy layers between shots, the mom-to-be was an absolute vision, embracing the season and the moment with grace.

The Setting: Washington Park in Winter

Washington Park is a favorite for Cincinnati photographers year-round, but winter brings a unique charm. The bare trees, elegant architecture, and twinkling holiday lights (if you time it just right!) create a dreamy backdrop. The grand gazebo, snow-dusted pathways, and historic surroundings make every shot look timeless.

Overcoming the Cold

Winter maternity sessions require a little extra planning, but the results are well worth it. Here are a few ways we kept the session comfortable and fun:

  • Frequent Warm-Up Breaks: We scheduled short shooting bursts, allowing the mom-to-be to warm up between takes.

  • Stylish Layering: She wore a beautiful, long maternity gown with a plush wrap to add both elegance and warmth.

  • Hand Warmers & Blankets: Hidden hand warmers helped keep her hands cozy, and a thick blanket between takes kept the chill at bay.

  • Movement & Posing: Gentle movement, like walking hand-in-hand with her partner or cradling her belly, helped keep her warm while adding natural emotion to the shots.

The Magic of the Moment

Despite the cold, this session was filled with heartwarming moments. The soft winter light filtered through the clouds, creating the perfect natural glow. The soon-to-be parents laughed, cuddled, and shared sweet moments that made for the most authentic and emotional images. One of my favorite shots captured the mother gently touching her belly as her partner wrapped her in an embrace—pure love and anticipation frozen in time.

Why You Should Consider a Winter Maternity Session

While many expectant mothers opt for spring or summer shoots, there’s something uniquely breathtaking about a winter session. The quiet serenity of the season, the cozy wardrobe options, and the chance to capture a different kind of beauty make it an unforgettable experience.

If you’re expecting and considering a maternity session, don’t let the cold weather deter you! With the right planning, you can have a dreamy and magical experience, just like this couple did at Washington Park. Winter brings its own kind of warmth—the kind that comes from love, anticipation, and the joy of new beginnings.

Looking to schedule your own maternity session? Let’s create something beautiful together!

Location, Location, Location....

We all know that location is everything… in photography this is no different. The location sets the tone of your session. Do you want a session in an urban setting, your cozy home, a favorite park or the place you and your husband first met?

Over the years I have photographed at many, many different locations. I do have favorites and not so favorites. I love finding new locations or when clients suggest a new place. I love photographing in your home (if the natural light is right) or in a place that has special meaning to you and your family.

But as much as location is important, I can also make a patch of green by the side of the road look great IF the lighting is right!

But for now, I am going to list a bunch of locations for you to choose from. Please keep in mind this is just a suggestion… there are tons of other places and I actually love if you find your own special place.

Ault Park

this is a great spot and has so many photo opportunities, the only draw back is that because it is so popular it attracts a lot of photographers.

Washington Park + OTR

Washington Park has so much to offer and makes a perfect backdrop for your photos. You have Music Hall, the fountains, the pavilion, lots and lots of photo ops in OTR and afterwards we can let your kids play on the playground.

Your Home or Backyard

As long as you have good natural light in your home (or even just a few rooms), your home is my absolute favorite location. Kids seem to be much more relaxed and have so much fun showing me their rooms and special toys. The whole session can sometimes feel like a play date… haha

Devou Park

I found this grassy, and secluded little patch of grass in Devou Park. This spot makes it perfect if you are looking for that high grass look in your photographs.

Smale Park

This location is a lot of fun, but sometimes to much fun and can distract kids with all the playground equipment. Lots of people, but the park is also big enough to move out of the way. All around a great park to photograph and in the heart of Cincinnati.

Johnson Hill

Johnson Hill is located in Anderson Twsp., on the east side of Cincinnati. Its a beautiful, very quiet park and the sun sets perfectly behind the trees.

Covington

Covington is great, as it has lots of different options in just one block radius. You have cobblestone roads, little alley ways, iron fences, flowers and the Cincinnati skyline.

My Studio

My studio is located at 2530 Spring Grove Ave, near Union Terminal. It has tons of natural light, backdrops, props and a really cool warehouse feeling.

Your favorite park, creek, meadow etc…

This family invited me to come hang out at their favorite creek. We took the kids for a short hike and bush whacked our way to the creek. It was so much fun and we got tons of natural smiles.

I hope this list helps you a bit… just let me know what you are looking for, where you live and how far you are willing to travel… and I will help you find the perfect location for our session.


Rye's in Home One Year Session - Cincinnati Photographer

I can't believe this little girl is already one! Check out her Newborn session HERE

We had to move her one year session from Washington Park indoors due to weather but it turned out to be perfect! And I love the continuity from her Newborn session.

The session basically consisted in Rylan playing and snuggling with her parents and I did my thing... Honestly it doesn't get easier and if you have a home with great natural light I highly recommend a session in your home.

To book your session with me please contact me through my website at www.sonjabphotography.com or email me directly at sonja.mcgill@yahoo.com

I specialize in Newborn and Family photography and my portrait studio is located at 2530 Spring Grove Ave. Cincinnati OH 45214.

I am looking forward hearing from you and customizing your photography session.

Max - One Year Session at Washington Park - Cincinnati Photographer

Max turned one and I got to photograph him at Washington Park for his One Year session. This kid is so content and happy... full of smiles all.the.time! It seriously was a walk in the park (see what I did there?) to photograph this little guy!

I love them all so much but if I was forced to pick a favorite one, I would have to pick the second picture from the top... look at that sweet little mischievous face!!! LOVE!

Hope to see this sweety again soon!

To book your session in my studio or in your home, please contact me at sonja.mcgill@yahoo.com or through my website www.sonjabphotography.com. I specialize in Newborn and Family photography and my Portrait Studio is located at 2530 Spring Grove Ave, conveniently located near downtown Cincinnati. Looking forward hearing from you!