As a Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, I love when my work brings me full circle with past clients. I photographed this couple’s Sugar Bowl wedding a couple years back. This past winter, I had the joy of reconnecting for some snowy maternity photos in Lake Tahoe.
For me, portrait sessions include the same essential ingredients as weddings. I focus on real connection, genuine emotion, and the natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe area. Photographing this next chapter of their story in the snow-covered Sierra felt like a natural continuation of the trust we built on their wedding day.
They told me they wanted a mix of photos together and solo portraits of the mom-to-be. With that in mind—and considering the time of year—we started their maternity session in a quiet pine forest blanketed with snow.
I knew the late afternoon sun would filter beautifully through the trees, casting a warm glow over the scene. The vibrant green lichen on the trunks added a pop of color and texture against the white snow, creating a serene, natural setting.
Next, we made our way into the mountains just in time for golden hour. The granite outcroppings, covered with snow, and the shimmering pine needles catching the evening light created a stunning, natural backdrop. For environmental portraits, I usually use a higher f-stop so that the entire scene is in focus.
For the portrait below, I used a smaller f-stop. This blurs the bridge into a softer background of shape, color, and texture.
Whenever I photograph at this location, I like to pause for a wide shot that really shows off the setting. The view of the Carson Range and Donner Lake in the distance adds a strong sense of place. For any couple that loves Tahoe, this would make a perfect enlargement to decorate a wall in their home.
Sunset Maternity Photos by Donner Lake
As the last light of the day filtered through the trees, I took one of the classic shots many expecting mothers hope for: a quiet, close-up of her hands gently resting on her belly.
While the sun dipped below the horizon, I wasn’t ready to wrap just yet. In order to create a final set of images with a quiet, moody feel I set up an off-camera light and lit a granite boulder along the lakeshore
Let’s Capture Your Next Chapter
If you’re expecting, growing your family, or simply entering a new season of life, I’d love to help document it. You can explore more of my approach to storytelling by visiting my couples portraits gallery. And if you’re thinking about a Lake Tahoe maternity session in Tahoe, feel free to shoot me a message to check availability and toss around a few ideas. I’d love to hear what you’re envisioning.
