Tips for Stunning Beach Maternity Photos: A Session at a Cayucos Beach
When it comes to capturing that growing belly and all the feels that come with it, nothing beats the beach. And I’m not just saying that because I’m a photographer, I’m saying that because I’ve seen it firsthand, and I love it! I recently had the joy of photographing my best friend from high school, Amanda, and her husband Garrett, for their maternity session at a beach in Cayucos on the beautiful Central Coast. It was honestly such a full-circle moment, as Cayucos is also where I shot their engagement photos years ago!
So, if you're thinking about doing a beach maternity shoot, or if you’ve already got a vision of how you want it to feel, I’m here to share some tips (and a little personal story) on how to make your beach maternity photos as magical as the moment. From location to timing to outfits, let’s dive in!
Location Selection: Why the Beach is Perfect for Maternity Photos
Okay, let me just start by saying, this beach has meaning. Cayucos is where I captured Amanda and Garrett’s engagement photos, and now here we are, years later, celebrating their first baby at the same spot. If you’re a Central Coast couple, picking a location that holds personal significance can add so much to the vibe of your photos! Whether it’s the place where you got engaged, a favorite hangout spot, or somewhere that just feels right, choosing a meaningful location will make the session feel even more special.
This beach in Cayucos was perfect because it’s peaceful and beautiful! The ocean in the background, the sand between your toes, and the incredible sunsets—it’s a setting that’s both relaxed and timeless. The best part? It’s not overcrowded like some of the other beaches, which means you can just focus on the moment, without worrying about tons of people around you. If you’re local to the Central Coast, trust me when I say this beach is everything for a maternity session.
Timing Beach Maternity Photos
Let me tell you: the timing of this session was perfect. As a photographer who loves to mix film and digital, I knew we had to hit golden hour to get that dreamy, sun-kissed glow. The Central Coast is famous for its clear sunsets, and when we were shooting at Cayucos, the sky was just unreal. The soft, warm light right before sunset is my absolute favorite for maternity photos, and it’s always worth waiting for.
Golden hour in this area is something you really can’t beat. It gives you that gorgeous soft light that makes your skin glow, and when you’re on the beach with the ocean backdrop, it’s magic. Amanda and Garrett were both glowing, but so was the sunset, and it made for some of the most perfect lighting I could have hoped for. Trust me, if you’re planning your maternity shoot at a beach on the Central Coast, golden hour is where you want to be!
Beach Maternity Photo Outfit Ideas
If I could give you one piece of advice for your beach maternity photos, it’s to pick comfortable outfits you can move in!! The beach is all about natural beauty, so your clothes should reflect that! For Amanda and Garrett’s session, I knew we needed outfits that would flow in the wind, catch the light, and make them feel relaxed.
Here are some outfit ideas:
Flowy Dresses: Amanda’s white dress was the perfect choice for the beach. It moved beautifully with the wind, and the soft fabric caught the light just right. If you’re going for a feminine, beachy look, a flowy dress in soft, neutral tones (think white, cream, or light blush) is a must.
Earthy Tones & Soft Colors: If you’re on the Central Coast, you already know how gorgeous the natural surroundings are. Go for colors that blend with the environment, like sage, soft blues, and creams. You want to look like you belong in the scenery, not like you’re competing with it.
Casual Looks: Amanda and Garrett also threw in some more casual outfits, and I’m so glad they did! A simple blouse to show off that beautiful tummy or light sweater paired with jeans or a skirt is perfect for some fun, laid-back shots where you’re just walking together, talking, and enjoying the moment.
Barefoot (Or Cute Sandals): Go barefoot if you can! (PLEASE!) Trust me, the best shots happen when you’re not worrying about shoes sinking in the sand. But if you’re not into being barefoot, cute sandals work too!
Posing vs. Candid
Here’s the thing: the best photos are the ones that capture how it felt in the moment. Amanda and Garrett’s session was full of laughs, little moments of playfulness, and tender glances that we just let happen naturally. As much as I love getting a few “posed” shots (hello, cute belly hand placements!), I’m all about the candid stuff—the laughs, the little spins, and those real moments between you and your partner.
For beach maternity photos, don’t overthink it. A simple hug, a playful kiss, or even walking hand-in-hand down the shore can be just as powerful as a perfectly posed shot. The beach is all about the vibes, and when you let go and embrace the beauty of the moment, that's when the magic happens.
Embrace the Beach Vibe!
The beach just gets it. It’s laid-back, fun, and totally free-spirited. There’s no pressure to be “perfect.” Honestly, the best moments of Amanda and Garrett’s maternity shoot came when they were just laughing, having fun, and getting soaked by the waves. If you’re stressed about getting the “perfect” shot, just remember: the real moments are the ones that are the most memorable. The beach invites you to let go and just enjoy being in the moment. Embrace it!
Why the Beach is Perfect for Maternity Photos
Here’s the thing: the beach is more than just a pretty place—it’s symbolic. The vastness of the ocean, the soft sand under your feet, the endless horizon—it's all a metaphor for your growing family! It represents something big and beautiful, just like the new chapter you’re about to start. Every little detail of the beach setting perfectly complements the excitement and anticipation of parenthood. It's the perfect space to capture the love, joy, and connection that define your journey.
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Beach maternity photos are truly something special. The setting, the light, the vibe—everything about it screams romantic, peaceful, and real. If you’re expecting and want maternity photos that feel personal, natural, and a little bit magical, the beach is where it’s at. And if you’re on the Central Coast, there’s no better place than Cayucos to make it happen!
Whether you’re rolling with the waves or sharing a quiet moment with your partner, I’m here to make sure your maternity session feels just as beautiful as the memories you’re creating. I’d love to help you capture this incredible moment in your life. Contact me and let’s start planning your session! I can’t wait to know you!
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