There’s something magical about a maternity shoot by the ocean — the soft light, open space, and timeless calm of the waves make it the perfect backdrop for capturing this incredible chapter of your story.
After photographing many beach maternity sessions here in Cape Town, I’ve gathered a few tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your photoshoot — so you can relax, have fun, and walk away with photos you’ll love forever.
WHAT TIME OF DAY?
You know? Normally I love a classic golden hour session at the beach - for the softer light and the warm tones. BUT this shoot challenged me to embrace a glorious bright just-past-midday session. And you guess what? Flipping. Loved. It
We opted for this time in an attempt to capture the last of the spring flowers in full bloom in Muizenberg (they pop out their glorious faces in the sun!) And what I've learned is, really, we can make any time work - depends on what you're wanting from your photos!
KEEP OUTFITS SIMPLE
You don’t need a wardrobe full of options — just something that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.
For the beach, soft, neutral tones like cream, sand, blush, or sage photograph beautifully against the ocean backdrop.
Flowy dresses work wonderfully — they catch the wind and add movement to your photos. If you prefer something more fitted, a simple body-hugging dress can show off your bump perfectly. Or, as you can see in this shoot, let's embrace that beautiful bump in all its glory!
Prepare for wind!
The beach can be unpredictable — breezy one minute, calm the next. Embrace it! The wind can add gorgeous motion to your photos.
If your hair is long, consider leaving it loose but bring a brush or hair tie for breaks.
And don’t worry if your dress or feet get a little sandy or wet — those natural, playful moments often make the most beautiful photos.
DOGS WELCOME? ABSOLUTELY!
Don't just include your partner — bring your little ones — and your fur babies too! - makes the session more personal and emotional.
The focus is still on you and your bump, I want to capture the fullness of your family's deeper story of love and anticipation.
But we don't know how to pose!
You don’t need to know how to pose — that’s my job!
I’ll gently guide you throughout the session so everything feels natural and comfortable. The best photos happen when you can just be — walking barefoot on the sand, laughing with your partner, or taking a quiet moment to breathe in the salty air and feel your baby move.
BRINg some little extras
A light blanket or wrap can be handy if it gets chilly as the sun sets.
If you’re planning to go barefoot (which I always recommend!), bring sandals for walking to the spot.
And if you’d like to make a moment of it, bring a towel or picnic blanket for a few relaxed sitting shots near the water.
Also, feel free to bring an ultrasound picture, a little onesie or some little booties - if you'd like!
choose the right photographer!
Every photographer has a slightly different approach — some are more posed, others more candid and emotive.
If you’re drawn to soft, natural, light-filled images that capture connection and authenticity, you’ll feel right at home in front of my camera.
You can explore more examples of my maternity photography here, or get in touch to book your own beach maternity session — I’d love to help you capture this special season.
Sarah Lamour is a Cape Town-based lifestyle photographer specialising in birth, maternity, family, and newborn sessions across the Western Cape — including Blouberg, Camps Bay, Noordhoek, Muizenberg and surrounding areas.
