People always ask me where I shoot maternity sessions. The honest answer is: it depends on what you want to walk away with.
I’ve been photographing pregnant women in and around San Clemente for over18 years. The beach is where most people want to go, and for good reason — the light here does things that are hard to replicate anywhere else. But I also shoot in-studio, and some of the most striking maternity portraits I’ve made have been against a clean backdrop in controlled light, where the focus is entirely on the woman in the frame.
Both are available. Here’s how I think about each one.
The Beach: San Clemente State Beach and the Pier
My primary on-location spot is located in San Clemente. It has everything: cliffs that turn golden at sunset, a wooded area that photographs beautifully in softer light, and the beach itself to get those epic sunset shots. When the tide is low, I’ll sometimes head north of the San Clemente pier, where it’s quieter and the beaches are wider to get some gorgeous reflections in the water.
San Clemente tends to be less crowded than Newport Beach or Laguna, which matters when you’re trying to create something that feels private and intentional. I’ll be honest, that spot off Calafia has been discovered more in the last few years than I’d like, but I know how to work around it. Timing and positioning are everything.
Sessions run one to two hours on location. We typically work through two to three dress changes, chosen together before the session so there are no surprises and every look is deliberate.
In-Studio: San Clemente
The studio at 971 Calle Negocio gives us complete control. Lighting, temperature, pace. You’re not racing the sun or navigating a parking lot at 37 weeks pregnant. We can go through up to five wardrobe changes, take our time, and create a range of images that a beach session can’t always offer.
Some clients do both: a studio portion followed by a beach sunset. That’s an option worth asking about if you want maximum variety.
The Wardrobe
This is one of the things that sets a session here apart from what you’ll find at most photography studios in Orange County. There are 100+ maternity dresses available at no extra charge, both flowy and fitted, in a wide range of colors. Florals, neutrals, deep jewel tones, sheer layers. Most clients are surprised by how much is here.
You’re welcome to bring your own pieces too. Some of the most meaningful moments in a maternity session come from a robe, a partner’s shirt, something personal. But you don’t need to shop for anything. It’s all here.
When to Book
The sweet spot is 30 to 36 weeks. The belly is full and round, you’re still comfortable enough to move, and there’s plenty of time to plan the session without rushing. That said, every pregnancy is different. If you’re closer to 37 or 38 weeks, reach out and we’ll talk through it.
Most clients book their maternity session during the second trimester, around 18 to 22 weeks. That’s also when I’d recommend locking in your newborn session if you’re planning on both.
Booking Maternity and Newborn Together
A lot of clients do both, and I’d strongly recommend it. Newborn sessions are best within the first 8 to 14 days after birth, and that window moves faster than anyone expects. Booking both during pregnancy means your newborn spot is secured before you’re in the middle of a sleep-deprived first week with a brand-new baby.
Clients who book both sessions together receive a discount. Reach out for current details.
Who I Serve
The studio is in San Clemente, and clients come from throughout Orange County: Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Newport Beach, and Irvine. The drive is worth it. If you have questions about logistics, just ask.
Session fees start at $395 for weekday sessions and $495 for weekends. Collections and wall art are available at your ordering and design appointment after the session.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time during pregnancy for a maternity session?
30 to 36 weeks is the sweet spot for most women. The belly is full, you’re still comfortable, and there’s enough time to plan properly. If you’re at 37 or 38 weeks, reach out — it’s still worth talking through.
Do I need to bring my own wardrobe?
No. There are 100+ maternity dresses at the studio available at no charge, in both flowy and fitted styles across a wide range of colors. If you have something personal you want to include, bring it. But most clients work entirely from the studio wardrobe and love what they find.
Can my partner or other kids be included?
Yes. Partner portraits and sibling moments are some of the most treasured images from a maternity session. We’ll plan for those, and make sure there are also portraits of you on your own, because this season is yours too.
What locations do you shoot on?
All of Orange County, but primarily San Clemente State Beach off Calafia, which has cliffs, wooded areas, and open beach. Sometimes north of the San Clemente pier at low tide. In-studio sessions are at 971 Calle Negocio in San Clemente. Both options are available, and some clients combine the two. We discuss the look you are going for during the pre-session consultation.
Should I book maternity and newborn at the same time?
Yes, and strongly. The newborn window is 5 to 14 days after birth. It fills fast. Booking both sessions during pregnancy is the only way to guarantee you have a spot when you need it, and clients who book together receive a discount.
How far in advance should I book?
Most clients book during the second trimester, around 18 to 22 weeks. If you’re further along, reach out right away and we’ll do everything possible to fit you in.
To learn more about what a maternity session includes, visit the maternity page. If you’re also considering a newborn session, start there during your pregnancy — availability is limited and the window is short: newborn page.
Ready to check availability? Call (949) 887-5928 or reach out through the contact page.
