It’s always special when I’m photographing a glowing mom-to-be, especially when it’s in a place as breathtaking as the Washington National Cathedral. On August 29, 2024, I had the joy of capturing Madeline’s National Cathedral Maternity Photos. We chose two dreamy locations: the Bishop’s Garden and the Cathedral Garth.

These spots are total gems for maternity photography in Washington DC, and Madeline’s session was a perfect mix of romance, fun, and that special anticipation of welcoming a little one into the world.

The Bishop’s Garden: A Little Slice of History

The Bishop’s Garden feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Tucked away on the south side of the National Cathedral in Washington, this gorgeous garden has such a romantic vibe with its mix of historic plants (some even linked to George Washington’s Hayfield Manor!), lush greenery, and beautiful stonework.

Madeline’s dress looked stunning, especially against the pops of color from the flowers and the intricate stone details of the garden. Every photo had this timeless charm, and simultaneously the peacefulness of the space made the whole experience feel extra special.

The Cathedral Garth: A Cozy Spot with a Touch of Magic

If you haven’t been to the Cathedral Garth yet, add it to your must-see list! Tucked behind the Cathedral on the north side, this serene space centers around a striking bronze fountain. The gentle sound of water and the soft light created a calm, magical setting for Madeline and Peter’s maternity portraits.

The All Souls Memorial Garden, part of the Garth, added even more beauty to the session. The simple greenery and quiet atmosphere, make the perfect spot to capture intimate moments to celebrate this exciting milestone.

Why the Washington National Cathedral Is a Must for Maternity Photos

The Washington National Cathedral Washington DC isn’t just for tourists—this iconic landmark is hands-down one of the best places for maternity photos in Washington DC! Between gorgeous Gothic architecture, vibrant gardens, and peaceful hidden corners, it’s a dream location for timeless and elegant maternity portraits.

Whether you love the idea of a cathedral maternity photoshoot or you’re searching for unique maternity photo locations in DC, this spot delivers every time. It’s perfect for celebrating those pregnancy milestones in a way that feels beautiful, personal, and oh-so-special.

How to Plan a Maternity Session at the Washington National Cathedral

Considering a maternity session at the Washington National Cathedral? Here are some quick tips to make it extra amazing:

Pick the Perfect Outfit: Comfortable dresses or soft neutrals look gorgeous against the Cathedral’s limestone and garden backdrops.

Go for Golden Hour: The soft, glowy light just before sunset adds a dreamy vibe to your photos.

For more details about how to prepare for your photography session, check out my post: Booked your session?! Let’s prepare you for the best photos!

Let’s Capture Your Joyful Journey

Madeline’s session at the Washington National Cathedral was undeniably a sweet celebration of motherhood.

As a Washington DC maternity photographer, I love creating fun, meaningful, and stunning portraits at iconic spots like this one. If you’re looking for timeless maternity photography at one of the most iconic DC photoshoot locations, let’s make it happen!

For more information on how to plan a stunning maternity session, check out my post: My Best Advice for How to Take Photos with the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC.

If you’re drawn to DC’s iconic landmarks, don’t miss CNN Senior Legal Affairs Correspondent Paul Reid’s Maternity Session on Capitol Hill for more inspiration!

Head over to www.lizstewartphoto.com to learn more about maternity photos in DMV and start planning your dream session. I can’t wait to help you celebrate this exciting chapter in your life with photos you’ll treasure forever!