Why Choose a Beach for a Maternity Session?
As a Bay Area Motherhood and Family photographer I am asked about a beach session quite a bit. Here are my two cents. Do you love the beach? Is it your happy relaxing place? If the answer is yes, then a maternity session on a beach is the session you are well deserved. Even if it means that you need to drive up to an hour to the shooting location. You are caring for your bundle of joy for 9 months, you can spare an hour for this dream maternity session.
When is a good time to photography on a beach?
The best time of the day for a beach maternity shoot is about 60 minutes before sunset. The light is soft and not harsh on your skin. The pink, blues, and yellow hues of the sky during a sunset beach maternity are HEAVENLY.
What do you wear for a beach maternity session?
Well, another advantage of a maternity shoot at the beach is that the beach is neutral and therefore any color works and looks great. However, softer colors allow you and your belly to be the focus and not your dress. Plus, when it comes to beach maternity photos your backdrop is typically light-colored sand and blue green waters. These soft colors paired with a pastel dress will make your photos look almost like a watercolor painting. If you were to wear a black dress the first thing people would see would be the dress and then they’d register your face and belly. With the neutral tones your face will be the first thing to pop out at them followed by the belly.
I personally prefer the lacy relaxed maternity dresses that the wind can softly move. I personally wouldn't choose a super dramatic formal looking dress. Long dresses with extra loose fabric are the best. Remember, you are on a beach. You need to be able to move easily and be playful. Bring nice shoes for some shots and be ready to take off the shoes for other shots. You are on a beach...
Where do one find some great maternity clothing choices?
Amazon, Baltic Born, Lukalula, Pink Blush and JoyFolie have lots of online options.
Like in any shoot, it is important to be color coordinated with your spouse and kids. In Northern California it can be pretty cold by the water, so bring some cozy jackets for before and after.
When should I take my Maternity session?
From my experience as a San Francisco Maternity photographer, I recommend taking the photos anywhere from 28-32 weeks which puts you around 7-8 months pregnant. This gives you the best baby bump size while you are still comfortable. Many of my clients find that at 36 weeks and above they are just too uncomfortable to want to take beach maternity photos.
You’ll want to book with your photographer at least 6-8 weeks before then to be sure to get a good spot on their calendar. Many of my clients book me for their maternity and newborn photos at the mid-point of their pregnancy, typically around 20 weeks.
Ready to take these magnificent pictures? Let's connect.
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