Beach maternity sessions are my all-time favorite! There’s something magical about combining the pregnancy glow with the sunset glow — muuah! And the neutral colors the beach naturally brings? Absolute dream.
If you’re in Santa Monica or Los Angeles and thinking about a maternity photoshoot at the beach, I’d love to help you capture this season in a way that feels natural, joyful, and unforgettable.
How to Dress for Your Beach Maternity Session
The most successful way to dress for a beach session is to embrace neutrals.
- Whites, off-whites, and light greys
- Browns, beiges, sandy tones
- Earthy colors also work beautifully
Lighter tones are my go-to for beach maternity sessions because they enhance the soft, golden glow of the sunset and give your photos that creamy, dreamy feel. Whites, off-whites, creams, and soft greys catch the natural light beautifully, reflecting warmth onto your skin and creating a serene look that blends effortlessly with the sand and ocean. These shades also allow movement — like flowing dresses or scarves — to appear weightless and magical against the beach backdrop.
That said, a touch of deeper colors like black, rich browns, or jewel tones can create a subtle contrast against the sand and sunset. The key is balance — pairing them with lighter neutrals or soft textures keeps your photos timeless while letting your personality shine.
💡 Pro tip: Choose flowy dresses or outfits that move with the wind — it adds drama and motion to your photos!
Is it OK to include older siblings in the maternity photos?
YES! Absolutely. Older siblings are not just welcome — they’re often the highlight of the session.
Pregnancy is not just about you; it’s about your growing family. Watching your firstborn become a big sibling is a memory you’ll treasure forever. One of my favorite moments from my second pregnancy was seeing my daughter’s excitement — even if she didn’t understand that the baby wouldn’t arrive for months!
💛 Tip: This is the last time your older kids are the main focus. Embrace it – play, laugh, and capture it all.
Best Time for Santa Monica Beach Maternity Photos
The 60–90 minutes before sunset, often called golden hour, is hands-down the best time for a Santa Monica beach maternity session. During this window, the sunlight becomes soft, warm, and flattering — perfect for capturing that pregnancy glow. The softer light reduces harsh shadows, adds a dreamy glow to your skin, and creates those magical, creamy tones in both the sand and ocean backdrop. Plus, the warm hues of the setting sun naturally enhance your photos, making every shot feel intimate, radiant, and timeless.
What to bring to your Santa Monica beach session
You don’t need to bring much to a beach session. Bring yourselves, your outfit(s), and a happy mood. But in addition to that, here are a couple things to keep in mind:
Plan for parking: Bring coins or a credit card (Santa Monica parking is limited)
Blankets: I bring a neutral one, but you’re welcome to bring your own
Warm layers: Sunset at the beach brings wind and cooler temps – so an extra layer is a good idea, especially with kids
Hairbrush: The beach is windy — a quick touch-up helps
Snacks & water: For little ones to stay happy
Extra clothes and towels: In case you or your kids get wet
And about that wind in your hair…
Yes, the wind may blow your hair into your face. And yes, that’s totally OK!
I’ll guide you through poses, let your hair flow, and even help you toss it for dreamy beach vibes. The movement looks gorgeous on camera — embrace it!
Why Choose a Beach Maternity Session in Santa Monica
Sunset glow + natural light = dreamy, golden photos that highlight your pregnancy glow in the most flattering way.
Neutral colors + soft sand = effortless, timeless style that keeps the focus on you and your growing family. The beach naturally provides a beautiful, minimalist backdrop, making every photo feel airy, serene, and full of life.
Playful, unposed moments = memories you’ll treasure forever. The beach naturally encourages movement, connection, and joy. Whether it’s gentle twirls along the shoreline, soft belly kisses with the waves as a backdrop, or laughing with siblings and partners as sand sticks to little toes. These sessions capture authentic emotions in a way that staged poses just can’t replicate, letting your family’s laughter and love be the main ingredient for your session.
If you’re in Santa Monica or Los Angeles, a beach maternity session is absolutely the perfect choice. Whether you’re walking along the shoreline, letting the wind play with your hair, or simply sitting together watching the waves, every moment becomes a beautiful memory. Bring your family, your outfits, and your joy — I’ll bring the camera, the guidance, and a little magic to ensure your photos are as effortless, fun, and timeless as this special season of life.
If you want to know more about my Maternity Session, click HERE!
