A series of outdoor portraits taken on a rustic wooden bench in a garden setting during golden hour lighting.

When you live in Maryland, you don’t have to travel far to find beautiful backdrops for your family or maternity photos. Within just a short drive from Silver Spring, there are gardens, trails, parks, and hidden gems that feel like a world of their own.


I’ve spent some time photographing families and moms-to-be across the DMV, and these are some of my favorite nearby spots. Each one offers something special, whether you love the look of blooming gardens or the comfort of a quiet field at sunset.

1. BROOKSIDE GARDENS

SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND


This ones a classic and for good reason! Brookside Garden is well maintained 50 acre garden in Wheaton. It is full of color, charm, and serenity with lots of variety for both maternity and family shoots. Between the stone walkways, the pond bridge, and the endless flowers, every angle offers something magical.


I especially love this location for one with little ones joining the session. There is enough space for them to run around and get some energy out. This place also has so many different backdrops for fall including :

  • Japanese Maples, Sweetgums and Dogwoods that turn a vibrant red and orange by late October
  • Golden Gingko Trees that provide a warm yellow canopy near the main lawn
  • Ornamental grasses that glow beautifully at sunset, adding textures and light play


It's especially beautiful for maternity photos, where soft light filters through trees and blossoms frame every moment. The only thing to note is that it can get very crowded throughout the weekend!


Permit Required: YES, $50 / hour

Best time to shoot: Early morning or golden hour in Spring or Fall

Distance: 3 miles from Silver Spring




Mom and daughter standing together on a stone path in a lush garden setting on a bright spring day. Brookside Garden
A toddler in a floral dress sitting and playing on lush green grass in a garden setting. Brookside Garden.
Toddler in a floral dress and straw hat create a charming spring scene on a rustic wooden garden bench. Brookside Garden.

2. Wheaton Regional Park

SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND


Wheaton Regional is where I go when I want photos that feel real. There’s space for kids to run, trees that catch the perfect light, and even a carousel and train if you want to add a playful touch.


Unlike Brookside Gardens, the side of the park is more casual and spacious, which is great for families with young kids who need room to move around. You’ll find:

  • Open grassy fields with warm golden light in the late afternoon
  • Wooded walking trails that create soft, filtered light for dreamy portraits
  • A small lake (Pine Lake) for reflection shots and peaceful backdrops
  • Fallen leaves and tall trees that give that iconic cozy and natural autumn vibe
  • Fences, benches, and tree-lined paths for variety without needing props


There is also plenty of parking and space to explore! It’s perfect for family sessions with little ones or for moms who want that calm, natural feel to their maternity photos.


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Late afternoon (the light through the trees is gorgeous)

Distance: 4 miles from Silver Spring

3. Meadowbrook Park

Chevy Chase, MARYLAND


If you love soft, natural backdrops and a setting that feels both open and intimate, Meadowbrook Park is the perfect spot. This park has a charming mix of open meadows and shaded trails, which means you can capture a variety of looks in a session at any time of day. Perfect for sessions during bright and sunny days. Here, you’ll find:

  • Wide open fields perfect for movement, play, and big family group shots
  • Tree-lined paths and bridges that add depth and story to your photos
  • Natural wood fences and tall grass for organic, timeless texture
  • Gorgeous golden light that filters through the trees in the evening


Meadowbrook Park is also conveniently located near downtown Chevy Chase, with easy parking and plenty of room for kids to explore. It’s ideal for families, maternity sessions, or couples who want a relaxed, natural feel without crowds.


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Late afternoon (the light through the trees is gorgeous)

Distance: 4 miles from Silver Spring

4. Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park

Sandy Spring, Maryland


This location is like stepping into the countryside — without the long drive.


It has open meadows, rustic fencing, and scenic trails that photograph beautifully year-round.It’s ideal for families who want a simple, timeless setting or for maternity sessions that feel grounded and peaceful.


Permit Required: Yes, if the session will be held between the hours of 9 am to 5 pm. $50 / hour

Best time to shoot: Golden hour or just before sunset

Distance: 9 miles from Silver Spring




5. Lake Needwood - Rock Creek Regional Park

derwood, MARYLAND


If you love the look of water and greenery, Lake Needwood is a quiet and underrated gem. The reflections on the lake add a dreamy feel to your photos, and the surrounding trails make for a calm, relaxing shoot.


Perfect for family sessions with movement — walking, playing, laughing — or for capturing those tender maternity moments surrounded by nature.


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Early morning or before sunset to catch the glow on the lake

Distance: 12 miles from Silver Spring




6. Glenview Mansion & Rockville Civic Center Park

rockville, MARYLAND


For something elegant, this spot has stunning architecture and gardens that feel straight out of a storybook. The mansion backdrop adds sophistication, while the park grounds offer soft, natural light.


This is a wonderful spot for maternity sessions that lean toward fine art or for families wanting something classic and polished.


Permits Required: No for outdoor, yes for indoor

Best time to shoot: Mid-morning for soft light or golden hour for warmth

Distance: 11 miles from Silver Spring

Restrictions:

  • Indoor Photography Fees:
  • Glenview Mansion: $50 / hour
  • Civic Center Cottage: $50 / hour
  • F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater: $50 / hour
  • Social Hall: $50 / hour




7. Meadowside Nature Center

rockville, MARYLAND


Tucked away in the woods, Meadowside feels calm, cozy, and full of character. It’s a beautiful choice for families who want that organic, outdoorsy look or for expecting moms who feel most at home in nature.


The trails, small bridges, and forested areas make every session here feel intimate and relaxed.


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Morning light or early evening

Distance: 13 miles from Silver Spring




8. Acorn Urban Park

Downtown SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND


This is the perfect spot for an urban-mix background. There are gazebos and you get the city feel amongst it all. This location is great throwing in some city texture into the photos!


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Early Afternoon to beat the crows

Distance: 3 miles from Silver Spring




9. McCrillis Gardens

bethesda, MARYLAND


This is a smaller garden, especially Compared to Brookside, but an amazing scenery. It is typically less crowded and you still get some of those beautiful flowery shots in a more intimate space. I love this location for maternity shoots especially!


Permit Required: No

Best time to shoot: Golden hour in Spring or Fall

Distance: 3 miles from Silver Spring




10. Glen Echo Park

glen Echo, Maryland


Glen Echo is the home to the beautiful restored 1921 antique Dentzel Carousel that is amazing for authentic family pictures with little ones. Glen Echo has a beautiful blend of historic structures that give it a vintage touch.


Permit Required: YES; $90 Application Fee & $50 Location Fee

Best time to shoot: Early morning or golden hour in Spring or Fall

Distance: 13 miles from Silver Spring




11. Your own backyard !

wherever you are!


Some of the most meaningful sessions I’ve ever done happened right at home.


In-home and backyard sessions are perfect for families who want a relaxed experience or for maternity clients who prefer comfort and authenticity over travel.


You’d be surprised how magical your own home can look with the right light!  Morning sun through the nursery window or golden light in your yard can be just as stunning as any park.


Best time to shoot: Morning light or early evening

Permit Required: No!




Lovely family sitting and laughing on a front porch of their brick home with white columns.
A series of black and white photos showing siblings sharing playful and candid moments on a porch.
Elderly couple embraces and kisses on front porch of their house.

✨ Choosing the Right Location for You


Each of these locations offers something unique — from elegant gardens to casual, kid-friendly trails. When you book your session, I’ll help you choose the spot that fits your personality, style, and season best.


Some clients love the color and structure of Brookside Gardens; others want that cozy, natural energy of Wheaton Park or their own backyard. There’s no wrong answer, only what feels right for you.

🌸 Session Details


Every family and maternity session includes a planning consultation, guidance on what to wear, and a relaxed, natural experience that captures connection over perfection.Session rates vary based on season and location.


I offer several options to fit your needs.  The best way to get pricing is to send me a quick message, and I’ll get back to you via email the same day.