Celebrate Your Pregnancy with Maternity Beach Photos Near Los Angeles
Are you envisioning a serene sunset backdrop, the soft sand beneath your feet, and the soothing rhythm of the ocean waves as you cradle your growing bump? If so, maternity beach photos could be the perfect way to commemorate this special time in your life. Keep reading for beach pregnancy photo shoot ideas, tips, and more!
Maternity Beach Photos: What to Expect and How to Prepare
The beach is one of my favorite places to take maternity photos. The sandy shores, crashing waves, and limitless horizon create a peaceful and idyllic backdrop for capturing the anticipation and joy of motherhood. The natural light reflecting off the water adds a magical touch, illuminating expectant mothers in a soft and flattering glow. Dive into the following questions to learn about what to expect and how to prepare for maternity beach photos.
What Do You Wear to a Maternity Photoshoot at the Beach?
Choosing the right outfit for your maternity photos at the beach should balance comfort, style, and the beachy setting. The key is to highlight your baby bump while feeling confident and beautiful. Soft, flowing fabrics work well and can create a lovely silhouette against the ocean backdrop.
Here are 10 outfit ideas for your maternity beach photos:
A maxi dress in a light, breezy fabric.
A two-piece set with a crop top and full skirt.
An oversized button-down shirt paired with denim shorts or jeans.
A lace or crochet dress for a boho vibe.
A swimsuit or bikini with a sheer cover-up.
A floral wrap dress for a pop of color.
A simple tank top and flowing skirt.
A bodycon dress that hugs your baby bump.
A tunic with leggings for a casual, comfortable look.
A white cotton dress for a classic, timeless feel.
How Many Weeks Pregnant Do You Take Maternity Pictures?
The timing for maternity photos is really up to personal preference, but I recommend scheduling your session when you're between 28 and 36 weeks pregnant. This is typically when the baby bump is nice and round, making it a great time to capture your pregnancy's beauty. However, every woman and every pregnancy is different, so it's important to listen to your body. If you're carrying multiples or if your belly pops early, you might want to schedule your session a bit earlier. Ultimately, the goal is to feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful during your shoot.
You’ll also want to consider being able to trek through the location you choose. I had a maternity client whose bump was big. She toughed it out, but we struggled to get down the cliffs at the beach. So, if you know your desired photoshoot location requires a bit of hiking or bluffs, I suggest doing it earlier on with a smaller bump.
How Late Is Too Late for Maternity Photos?
While there's no set "too late" date for maternity photos, after you reach 36 weeks of pregnancy, you might feel too uncomfortable for a photoshoot. There's also the chance that your baby could arrive early.
How Much Should You Spend on Maternity Photos?
Every photographer prices their services differently. As a maternity photographer in Los Angeles, I offer a comprehensive package starting at $300 that includes all the best photos, edited and available online as a personalized gallery. Mamas-to-be can choose an outdoor setting or an indoor studio and are welcome to bring any other people they’d like in the photos with them.
Remember, these photos are a lasting way to capture this special time in your life, so it's worth investing in a photographer whose style you love and who makes you feel comfortable. You can learn more about my maternity photography packages or get in touch today to chat about your vision for your pregnancy photos at the beach.
5 Tips for Your Maternity Beach Photos Near Los Angeles
The beach locations near Los Angeles provide the perfect backdrop for your maternity photos, but there are some things to consider before heading out for your shoot. Here are my top tips for expectant mothers as an LA maternity photographer.
1. Schedule Your Shoot for the Right Time of Day
One of the first things you should consider when planning maternity photos at the beach is the time of day. The perfect time to take photos is during "golden hour," which is the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset. During this time, the light is soft, warm, not harsh, and is perfect for stunning photos. If you work with me as your maternity photographer, I’ll make sure we’re there at the perfect time for the best light.
2. Choose the Right Beach Location
The LA area has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you are looking for a secluded or popular beach, you have an abundance of options. Consider the mood you want to create in your photos, and think about what location settings would work best for you. Whether it’s Santa Monica or Malibu, there’s a beach that’ll fit the picture you’re trying to paint. I’m happy to provide recommendations to ensure you choose the perfect setting for your vision.
3. Hire an Experienced Maternity Photographer
When it comes to your maternity photos, you want to choose a photographer who knows how to capture your natural glow. Choose a photographer with experience who can offer beach pregnancy photo shoot ideas and poses that match your taste. It's important to find someone who can make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and confident in front of the camera.
4. Bring Props or Your Favorite People
A prop can add a unique touch to your photos. For example, a small pair of baby shoes would make an adorable addition to a photo of you holding your baby bump. Some moms-to-be bring an ultrasound photo or a sign with the baby’s due date month. You can also bring people! Pregnancy photos at the beach can be even more fun when the whole family is involved.
5. Tailor Your Hair and Makeup to Your Personal Style
When you look good, you feel good, and the same goes for your maternity beach photos. Choose a hair and makeup look that complements your features and makes you feel confident before the shoot. You could opt for a simple, natural beach vibe or a more dramatic makeup look that will leave a lasting impression. What’s most important is that you choose to get “done up” in a way that feels natural to you.
Are Professional Maternity Photos Worth It?
Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, there is something special and unique about each pregnancy that you can cherish forever through a maternity photoshoot. These photos can serve as an elegant keepsake to remember this special period in your life.
Going with a professional maternity photographer ensures you get the best angles and lighting to highlight your pregnancy glow and the beauty of your baby bump. They also have the ability to make you feel at ease during the session, which can contribute to the naturalness of the photos.
While it's true that professional photography is an investment, consider these photos as a long-lasting treasure. They're not only for your enjoyment but also for your child to appreciate when they grow older and possibly for future generations. So, is it worth it? If you value the idea of capturing this precious time in high-quality photos, then the answer is a resounding yes.
Plan Your Maternity Photoshoot in Los Angeles with Celeste Drake Photography
As an LA maternity photographer, I have a passion for capturing the beauty and grace of expectant mothers against our city's stunning backdrops. Whether you're envisioning beachy maternity photos with the Pacific Ocean as your canvas or prefer the urban charm of downtown LA, I'm here to help bring your vision to life. With my professional guidance and artistic eye, we'll create timeless images that celebrate this extraordinary chapter in your life story. Get in touch today to learn more and schedule your beach maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles!