Moms, what could be more peaceful than a maternity shoot on the beach?

We often do these shoots on Tampa area beaches. Thankfully, there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from!

Two of our favorite beaches are Clearwater Beach and Sand Key Beach. We also love to use St. Pete Beach and Fred Howard Beach in Tarpon Springs.

Beaches are a perfect place to capture your pregnancy photos. The water, the sand, and the gorgeous sunsets – you just can’t beat it!

Understandably, you might feel a bit hesitant about taking pictures in such a public place. Plus, what about all the sand and humidity and your hair and makeup?!

It’s not as complicated as it seems! The trick is to know what to expect and come prepared. This is why we’re giving you 6 tips we give to all of our clients before we take their maternity beach photos.

Maternity Shoot on the Beach: Tips from Your Favorite GLOW Photographers

Taking maternity photos on the beach is a popular choice for many expecting mothers. It’s not hard to see why!

The beach provides a beautiful and serene backdrop for your photos. It also offers a sense of relaxation and peace. What most expecting moms don’t consider is how the location plays a huge role in how comfortable you feel on shoot day.

The sound of the waves, the soft sand between your toes, and the warm sun on your skin. It all helps you feel comfortable and confident during your shoot.

Plus, the beach offers a variety of unique and creative photo opportunities! We like to experiment with:

• Playful shots in the water
• Romantic sunset silhouettes
• Natural light
• Solo Mom shots
• Couples maternity shots
• Loving candids with your other children

You probably have a vision for the shot. The beach gives us so many options that it’s pretty easy for us to create the photos you’ve always dreamed of.

Sold on having your maternity shoot on the beach? Here are 6 tips we give to our maternity clients to create a hassle-free and memorable experience!

#1: Choose the Best Time Frame

We recommend between 32 and 36 weeks for your maternity photo session. Every pregnancy is different, but your beautiful baby bump should be showing well at this time!

This is also when you’ll be the most comfortable posing.

#2: Get Professional Hair and Makeup Stylist for Your Maternity Shoot on the Beach

Professional makeup and hairstyling may not seem like an expense you’ll need. But most of our clients realize it’s one they want once we get to the beach.

Lucky for you, we have wonderful stylists that will help you feel you’re most beautiful. They will use their expertise to ensure your makeup and hair work well for the location. Our on-site personal stylists can also help you pick and manage maternity dresses and outfits once you’re at the beach.

#3: Plan Ahead

Speaking of outfits, planning ahead is vital to the success of your maternity photoshoot on the beach.

Whether we’re exploring the shores of Sand Key or getting glowing silhouettes at Clearwater Beach, we recommend picking out multiple outfits well in advance (2 weeks or so). Knowing exactly what you’re wearing from head to toe eliminates any stress on photoshoot day!

Here are things to consider:

• A neutral color strapless bra and seamless underwear are great choices for undergarments
• A crop or bandeau top is the perfect option for showing that glorious belly.
• A buttoned-down shirt rather than a pullover shirt can work well if you’d like to show some of your bellies during your maternity session.
• If you’re wanting to do 2 outfit choices – choose a more flowing outfit for one and a more fitted outfit for your other option. Or you can choose a dressier option and a more casual option.
• For the winter months, a cardigan sweater is a good choice.
• For men’s clothing, remember it is mom’s time to shine. A neutral color button-down with pants works well. 
• In couple and family maternity sessions, coordinate by choosing 3 or 4 colors – neutral colors work great. Try not to be too matchy, matchy – like picking only 1 or 2 colors for your outfits.
• Bring baby’s ultrasound image: Cute, little shoes or an outfit; letters/initials of your baby’s name; a big colored ribbon (pink or blue) for your belly; etc. Remember, less is more in regard to props.

You can get more photoshoot outfit tips for you, your partner, or your children by downloading our FREE What To Wear Guide!

#4: Eat!

Always make sure to eat before your session, but not too close to your session.

Having a small meal will boost your energy and make the session a lot more fun! Start properly hydrating at least a week before to reduce puffiness. And since you’ll be in the sun for a few hours, make sure to bring a big water bottle to your maternity shoot on the beach!

But also keep in mind it will be a bit of a walk to the nearest bathroom. 

#5: Come Prepared

If you decide not to invest in a professional stylist, you’ll be in charge of your own touch-ups. Some necessary tools you should bring to your maternity shoot on the beach include:

• A mirror
• Brush/comb
• Argan oil (or something similar to smooth flyaway hairs)
• Blotting cloths
• Powder and other makeup
• A towel
• Water
• Snacks

It will also be windy at the beach. Bring an option to put your hair back, just in case. However, keep in mind that Brent will be considering the direction of the wind while posing you!

#6: Relax and Have Fun!

You’ll feel nervous about your maternity shoot on the beach. And believe it or not, it’ll show in your photos. Brent and I are kind of known for making our photo experiences light and fun (read our reviews here), but it helps to soothe your nerves from the start.

One way to do that is to make your ride over a relaxing one! Listen to your favorite songs, romantic songs – music that will help you focus on your love.

Then, be ready to get cozy! We’ll be capturing up-close and intimate photos of you and your loved ones. to capture the joy you feel about your upcoming addition to the family. 

Want your own maternity shoot on the beach? Wonderful! click here to schedule a Maternity Session phone consultation.