Big Sister Energy: A Summer Family Maternity Session
She was two years old, full of personality, and completely convinced she was running this summer family maternity session. Honestly? She kind of was. From the moment this family arrived at the UW Arboretum, their daughter set the tone: silly, joyful, and totally herself. That’s our favorite kind of evening.
Wildflowers, Golden Light, and Zero Agenda
The Arboretum in late summer is something else. Wildflowers taller than a toddler, golden grasses catching the last hour of light, and paths that wind just far enough to feel like you’ve left the city behind. We timed this session for golden hour, and it paid off. The warmth in these frames came as much from the sun as it did from the three of them together.
We have a thing for family maternity portraits that include the older siblings. There’s this anticipation in the air that’s hard to describe but easy to photograph. One moment the parents are locked into each other, and the next their daughter is making a face that cracks everyone up. We pulled in close for the candid stuff because that’s where the real gallery lives.
If you’re considering the UW Arboretum for your own session, know this: it gives you options. Open meadows for wide, airy frames. Shaded garden paths for quieter portraits. Enough room for a two-year-old to run without anyone stressing about it. That flexibility is why we keep coming back.
These three were completely relaxed, and honestly, that is when we do our best work. No forcing smiles, no stiff poses. Just a family laughing their way through a gorgeous evening with a new baby on the way. Want to see more of what we do? Check out our maternity and newborn photography page.
Is the UW Arboretum a good location for a maternity session with toddlers?
It’s one of our favorites for exactly that reason. The Arboretum has wide meadows, shaded paths, and plenty of space for little ones to move freely. The wildflower fields in summer are stunning for portraits, and you get real variety without ever feeling rushed.
When should I schedule a family maternity session in Madison?
Late summer and early fall give you the best combination of warm light and natural texture at locations like the Arboretum. We typically recommend booking about four to six weeks before your due date. Reach out and we’ll help you pick the perfect timing.
