I felt so lucky to be getting ready to photograph a pregnant Mama who was visiting from Chicago for work and wanted a Los Angeles Beach Pregnancy Photography Session. We made a plan, set the date, the place and the time and we were set! We were planning a session at El Matador Beach in Malibu which is well known for it’s beautiful rock formations and is popular for photo sessions. I got there early and we were ready to go, until we weren’t!!!! Poor Olga got stuck in the worst traffic jam ever on California’s beautiful coastal highway, PCH. The accident blocked all of the northbound lanes and her arrival time kept creeping closer and closer to sunset, some things you just can’t plan for.
Luckily I have been photographing families along Southern California beaches for over 20 years so I had a backup beach in mind and I scooted down to her before the sun set and got these gorgeous shots! This was one fantastic session and couldn’t have gone better in the end! Thank you Olga for sharing this special time with me, it was such a perfect afternoon! Look at this warm beautiful sunset light we got, and that green satin maternity gown…WOW!!!!! Sooooo stunning!
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
PRO TIPS: Here are some tips to help you make the most of your beach pregnancy photoshoot:
- Choose the right time of day: The best times for beach photos are during the “golden hours,” which occur shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times can create a beautiful and flattering glow in your photos.
- Select the right location: Look for a beach with scenic features like rocks, dunes, palm trees, or other natural elements that can enhance your photos. Consider both the ocean and the beach itself as potential backdrops. If you live in an area where beaches get crowded, choose ones that don’t have good access to restrooms, but make sure you are prepared for that. Beaches without restrooms are far less busy.
- Dress comfortably and confidently: Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Flowy dresses, maxi dresses, or a swimsuit can look stunning on pregnant women. Solid colors or simple patterns work well, as they won’t distract from the main subject – you!
- Accessorize thoughtfully: Consider adding accessories like a flower crown, a wide-brimmed hat, or a statement necklace to add a personal touch and enhance your beachy vibe.
- Hair and makeup: Keep your hair and makeup natural and light. Beach photos often work best with a more relaxed, natural look. If you’re hiring a professional makeup artist, be sure to communicate your preferences.
- Bring props: Consider bringing props like a sonogram image, baby shoes, or a chalkboard with the baby’s name or due date written on it to add a personal touch to your photos.
- Include your partner or other family members: If you wish, involve your partner or other children in the photoshoot to capture special moments and emotions as you await the new addition to your family.
- Be mindful of tides and weather: Check the weather forecast and tides for the day of your photoshoot. Be prepared for the possibility of windy conditions or changing tides. It’s a good idea to have a backup date in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
- Relax and have fun: Pregnancy is a special time, so enjoy the experience. Let your natural emotions shine through in the photos. Candid shots can often capture the true essence of the moment.
- Plan your poses: Research some maternity beach photos to get inspiration for poses that showcase your baby bump. Sitting or lying in the sand, walking along the shoreline, or gazing out at the water can create beautiful, evocative shots. Your photographer should have plenty of ideas but it doesn’t hurt to look some up yourself and practice them so you feel as confident as possible at your Los Angeles Beach Pregnancy Photography Session.
- Capture close-up and wide-angle shots: Ask your photographer to take both close-up shots to highlight your baby bump and wide-angle shots to show the surrounding beachscape.
Remember, the most important thing is to capture the joy, love, and anticipation of this special time in your life. Be open to trying different ideas and let your personality shine in your Los Angeles beach pregnancy photoshoot.
Diana Henderson Photography is located in Los Angeles, CA within the Glendora area. She is a professional photographer who specializes in fine art newborn photography in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. She has been capturing newborns for over 20 years.
Latest Blog Post: Anthony’s Los Angeles Newborn Photography Session
Learn More About Diana: Your Los Angeles Newborn Photographer