Everything to Know About Taking Beach Maternity Photos

As a Sacramento maternity photographer, I know that maternity photos are a whole different ballgame. There’s a good chance you’re not at your most comfortable, and don’t have as much mobility and movement as a typical photoshoot. But that does NOT mean you can’t still make your maternity photos yours and have a great time taking them!! One of my favorite ways to do this? Head to the beach. It’s a setting that adds the movement for you: wind, waves, and dreamy lighting. And, who doesn’t love a beach day?! So, let’s get into everything you need to know about beach maternity photos, so that you can plan an easy session that still feels like you, even when you’re about to pop!

The Sacramento Maternity Photographer’s Guide to Taking Beach Maternity Photos

Maternity photos are always such sweet sessions. I mean, the way you’re growing life?! You’re a literal queen, and that deserves to be documented. As I said before, though, planning these sessions is a little bit different. We want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible, but still get photos that feel true to you. But you don’t need to worry, because as a Sacramento maternity photographer, I’ve got this part covered! You can even check out my whole guide to planning your maternity session here. 

Beach sessions are always a blast, and it makes a gorgeous backdrop when it comes to a maternity photoshoot. They’re a bit different than your typical studio maternity shoot, but I’m bringing all the details you need to know before taking beach maternity photos right here! 

What to Wear to a Beach Maternity Photoshoot

Neutral, flowy, beachy outfits always fit the vibe. Alyanna’s two-piece set is literally the blueprint for your beach maternity photos, and I’m fully obsessed with it. 

Here are a few outfit ideas for your maternity session that are comfortable, beautiful, and look stunning at the beach: 

• This blue two-piece maxi skit set from Momyknows
• This mesh off-the-shoulder dress from Bumpsuit
• This pleated organza gown from FloralGoodsBer on Etsy (it’s a moment)

The Best Time of Day to Take Beach Maternity Photos

Sunrise and sunset sessions on the beach can never be beat, full stop. Both will bring you stunning lighting, and an earlier morning session will bring fewer people and more room, so it’s usually always my #1 recommendation. 

For Alyanna and Nelson’s session, we chose to go at sunrise, and we had the whole beach to ourselves. It was so calm and easy, and the environment eliminated stress and overwhelm, which is so important for a maternity session! The lighting couldn’t have been more gorgeous, and you can tell how serene it all was in the photos. I’m in love with how calm these felt for them! 

Where to Take Beach Maternity Photos 

Living in Northern California, it’s no surprise that there are a ton of gorgeous AF beaches around. Here are some of my absolute faves for photoshoots: 

• South Rodeo Beach – where Alyanna and Nelson’s session was held
• Half Moon Bay – see an engagement session I shot here! 
• Point Reyes – here’s another engagement session that I shot at Point Reyes 

What to Bring to Your Beach Maternity Photoshoot

My best advice? Always come prepared! Here are a few things I always tell my maternity session clients to bring for beach photos: 

• A blanket, because, let’s be real: you’ll probably want to sit down at least a few times 
• Some water and snacks to be prepared for cravings and hunger 
• A couple of props – think ultrasound pics, flowers, or even balloons! 
• A pair of comfy shoes or sandals for walking through the sand

FAQs About Taking Beach Maternity Photos

These are a few questions I get asked about taking beach maternity photos all the time, so I know you probably have them too! I’ve got you. 

Q: Can my partner or kids join the session? 

A: For sure! Partner, kids, dogs, bring ‘em all! These make for sweet photos: big siblings kissing your belly, capturing moments when it’s just you guys before the new baby comes. Ugh, obsessed! 

Q: What if it’s windy or cloudy on the beach? 

A: As your Sacramento maternity photographer, you know I’ve got you covered! Overcast skies can be beautiful and wind can add movement and mood to your photos, so don’t fret about the weather. I know how to work with it! 

Q: How do I prepare for a beach maternity session? 

A: Aside from bringing the things I mentioned above, I always recommend applying sunscreen, making sure your hair and makeup is prepped for wind, and bringing an extra outfit just in case, even if an outfit change isn’t your vibe! 

Alyanna and Nelson’s Beach Maternity Photoshoot at South Rodeo Beach

These two… They have my heart. Getting to capture such an emotional, exciting time for them meant so much to me, and we had the best time. We walked around the open beach (with their pup, eek!) and got some adorable photos in several different areas. That’s one of the reasons that I love South Rodeo Beach so much: there’s so much versatility! 

Nelson was so sweet and gentle with Alyanna. Belly kisses, hand holds, and cheek kisses were frequent parts of their session, and yeah, I was crying behind the camera. That’s why I love these sessions so much: you’re both excited, you’re glowing, and the emotions are just too sweet to handle. I cannot! 

Grace Thao | Sacramento Maternity Photographer

Beach maternity photos just ground everything. It’s a classic look that lets everything breathe. The breeze, the soft light, and the California scenery just make these sessions glow, and they’re so perfect for maternity photoshoots because you need something calm like this during a time that’s high in stress and emotion! 
If you want to plan your perfect beach maternity photos, I’m here to help with that! You can inquire about booking me here as your Sacramento maternity photographer. I can’t wait to capture this time for you!