A Sweet Cook Forest Maternity Session with a Friend
I was thrilled when Marissa, a sweet friend I used to work with, reached out for a maternity session. She and Andrew are expecting a baby girl, and knowing how she loves and cares for their three dogs, I just knew she’d be the most incredible mama. Capturing their love and anticipation in creek maternity pictures made this session extra special, and I couldn’t wait to explore Cook Forest with them for beautiful, nature-filled portraits.
Including the Dogs in Their Maternity Session
We started off the session with their pups, of course! Their dogs are part of the family, so it only made sense to include them in a few photos. We made sure to check those off the list first so that “grandpa” could take them home and we could focus on exploring the forest for the rest of the session. Cook Forest, PA, is full of hidden gems, so I knew we were in for a beautiful evening.
Dreamy Light in the Woods
From there, we started down a trail with interesting bridges and winding paths. Along the way, we stepped into the creek for a few photos (without getting wet just yet!). Not long after, I spotted the most magical glow peeking through the trees. The way the light filtered through the woods made it perfect for some intimate, forest maternity photos. We even stopped in front of one of the bridges for a few quick portraits before heading back to change outfits.
Finishing with Creek Maternity Pictures in Cook Forest
Marissa’s second outfit was perfect for the cozy, natural vibe we were going for—jeans, a white top, a slouchy pink sweater, and of course, those sweet bare belly shots. Pregnancy is such a special and fleeting time. Even though it often comes with nausea, fatigue, and aching feet, there’s nothing quite like feeling those baby kicks and imagining holding your little one in your arms. It’s an experience worth capturing, because those months go by so quickly and sometimes we never get the chance again.
I know this personally—my last baby came early, and I missed out on my own maternity session. To this day, I’m disappointed that I don’t have photos at the peak of my pregnancy to look back on. That’s why capturing moments like these for other mamas means so much to me.
For Marissa, her outfit worked beautifully in the tall grass, and then she ditched the sweater so we could head into the water. Andrew wasn’t quite as brave, but it was so worth it! The creek maternity pictures we captured in that golden hour glow are some of my all-time favorites. In my experience, it’s always worth it to get into the water at Cook Forest—the light, reflections, and moodiness are unbeatable.
Why Forest and Creek Maternity Photos Make the Perfect Backdrop
The woods and creek are a dream location if you love rich colors, natural textures, and a little moodiness. If you’re looking for light and airy photos, this might not be your vibe—but for those of us who love vibrant colors and the depth shadows bring, forest maternity photos are hard to beat.
As a maternity photographer, I always make sure to capture a few classic “everyone looking at the camera” shots, but honestly? My heart is in the photos that tell your story. The ones where you’re laughing together, snuggling in the grass, or daydreaming about your baby’s arrival. Those are the images that make you feel something—and that’s what I want for every maternity session I photograph.
View More Maternity Sessions
Want to see more inspiration? Take a look at some of my other maternity sessions here ➝
Ready to Book Your Maternity Photographer?
If you’re expecting and dreaming of your own maternity photo session in Cook Forest (or another location that feels like home to you), I’d love to capture this season of life for you. Reach out here ➝ to start planning your session.
