Summer Maternity Photos: A Complete Guide for Expecting Moms
This Post May Contain Affiliate LinksSummer maternity photos are some of my favorite sessions to photograph.
From warm sunsets at the beach to flower fields in full bloom, summer offers a huge variety of locations and natural light that photograph beautifully during pregnancy.
But planning maternity photos during summer also comes with a few extra things to consider, like heat, timing, outfit choices, and choosing a location that is both comfortable and meaningful.
In this guide, I’m covering everything you need to know about planning summer maternity photos, including the best locations, what to wear, how to stay comfortable during your session, and answers to some of the most common questions expecting moms ask before booking their maternity photoshoot.
Why Summer is a Great Season for Maternity Photos
One of the biggest advantages of summer maternity photos is the flexibility that comes with the season.
Longer daylight hours make it easier to schedule sessions around cooler temperatures and ideal lighting conditions, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Another reason summer works so well for maternity photos is the variety of location options available throughout the season. Early summer often yields greener landscapes and lingering wildflowers, while mid-to-late summer creates warmer golden tones.
Beaches are a refreshing change of pace, lavender fields peak in mid summer, sunflowers bloom later in the season, and mountain locations offer a mixture of green and golden tones, perfect for summer.
Best Locations for Summer Maternity Photos
From coastal beaches to mountain peaks, the location you choose can completely shape the feeling of your session. Some expecting moms are drawn to barefoot beach photos at sunset, while others love the idea of flowers blooming around them, or the wild and free feeling of a mountain session.
When choosing a location for your summer maternity photos, it helps to consider things like temperature, walking distance, crowds, sunset timing, accessibility, and overall comfort.
Below are some of the best types of locations to consider for summer maternity photos, and what makes each one unique.
The Beach
Beach maternity photos are one of the most timeless options for summer sessions. The soft neutral tones of the sand, ocean, and sky photograph beautifully and keep the focus on connection and emotion rather than distractions in the background.
Summer beach sessions are usually best photographed either at sunrise or about 1.5-2 hours before sunset. Midday beaches can become extremely crowded and bright, especially during peak summer months.
Sunset sessions tend to offer softer light, cooler temperatures, and a more romantic atmosphere.
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Flowers and Gardens
Flower fields and gardens create some of the most romantic summer maternity photos because they naturally add a softness and beautiful color to your images. Summer blooms also change throughout the season, meaning each month offers something a little different.
Gardens are especially popular for moms wanting a more feminine or editorial feel to their maternity session.
Rose Gardens
Rose gardens are beautiful in late spring and early summer when blooms are at their fullest. They create an elegant and classic atmosphere while still feeling relaxed outdoors. Neutral dresses photograph beautifully against soft pink, cream, peach, and red roses.
Sunflower Field
Sunflowers bring a brighter, more playful summer feeling to maternity photos. Their height and bold yellow tones create a warm, cheerful atmosphere. These sessions often work best near sunset when the light can filter through the sunflower petals.
Lavender Field
Lavender fields usually peak in early to mid summer and are perfect for expecting moms wanting a dreamy, European inspired feel. The soft purple tones pair beautifully with cream, while, sage, dusty blue, or linen-colored dresses. Lavender fields also photograph especially well during golden hour when the light catches the flowers.
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Rivers & Lakes
Rivers and lakes create a completely different atmosphere than beaches or gardens. Water reflects light beautifully during summer evenings, creating soft glowing tones that work especially well for maternity photography.
River and lake maternity photos are perfect for moms wanting a more adventurous or earthy feel to their session. These locations often include tall grasses, trees, rocks, forested trails, or mountain views nearby, which adds a lot of variety to a gallery.
Things to consider:
Some areas may require short hikes
Mosquito spray can be helpful near water
Comfortable walking shoes are important
Safety and accessibility should ways come first during pregnancy
Mountains & Fields
Mountain and field maternity photos are perfect for expecting moms wanting a more natural, open, and adventurous atmosphere.
Because mountain and field locations tend to be hotter than waterside locations, timing becomes especially important when planning mountain or field maternity photos in summer.
Sunrise and sunset sessions are usually the most comfortable option since temperatures are lower and the light is much softer.
What to Wear for Summer Maternity Photos
Because summer is usually hot, lightweight fabrics and breathable materials usually look and feel the most comfortable. The goal is to choose outfits that feel effortless and comfortable while still creating shape and texture in your photos.
1. Choose Lightweight Fabrics With Movement
When planning your outfit, breathable fabrics are one of the most important things to consider for summer maternity photos. Lightweight materials help keep you comfortable in warm weather while also creating softness and movement within your images.
Flowy dresses are especially popular for summer maternity sessions because they move beautifully in the wind and create a romantic, timeless feel. Long dresses with movement tend to photograph especially well at beaches, flower fields, mountain meadows, and sunset locations.
Some of the best fabric choices for summer maternity photos include:
Linen
Cotton
Chiffon
Gauze
Soft knit fabrics
Lightweight tulle
Rayon blends with movement
The goal is to choose outfits that are natural and easy to wear rather than overly structured or restrictive. Comfortable clothing almost always leads to more relaxed, connected photos.
Click the dresses to shop!
2. What Should Dads Wear for Summer Maternity Photos?
For dads or partners, the best outfits are usually simple, neutral, and comfortable. Coordinating colors works much better than trying to perfectly “match” outfits.
Lightweight, breathable clothing photographs beautifully during summer sessions while helping everyone stay comfortable outdoors.
Great options for dads include:
Linen button-up shirts
Neutral t-shirts
Henleys
Lightweight sweaters
Linen or chino pants
Neutral shorts for beach sessions
Soft neutral tones like cream, beige, olive, soft blue, tan, or muted earth tones usually pair beautifully with maternity dresses without being distracting.
The goal is for everyone’s outfits to look cohesive while still feeling natural and relaxed.
3. What Should Kids Wear for Summer Maternity Photos?
If older children are joining your maternity session, comfort is especially important. Kids who feel too hot, itchy, or restricted usually become uncomfortable much faster during outdoor summer sessions.
Simple outfits with soft textures and breathable fabrics tend to photograph beautifully while still allowing kids to move naturally.
Great outfit options for kids include:
Neutral cotton dresses
Linen overalls
Soft rompers
Simple textured outfits
Muted florals
Neutral sets in earthy tones
Barefoot beach outfits
Keeping children’s outfits simple helps maintain a timeless look throughout the gallery while allowing the focus to stay on connection and emotion rather than overly styled or distracting clothing.
For family maternity photos, it’s usually best to keep everyone within a similar color palette rather than having one person stand out dramatically from the rest.
How to Stay Comfortable During Summer Maternity Photos
Summer maternity photos can be incredibly beautiful, but staying comfortable during your session is one of the most important parts of creating a positive experience.
Pregnancy already places extra demands on your body, and warm weather, walking between locations, and longer evenings can quickly become exhausting if your session isn’t planned thoughtfully.
1. Schedule Your Session During Cooler Parts of the Day
One of the easiest ways to stay comfortable during summer maternity photos is by choosing the right time of day.
Midday sessions during summer are often the hottest, brightest, and most uncomfortable, especially at beaches, open fields, or inland locations.
Sunrise and sunset sessions are often ideal because:
Temperatures are significantly cooler
The light is softer and more flattering
Locations tend to be less crowded
2. Stay Hydrated Before and During your Session
Make sure to bring lots of water to your summer maternity photoshoot! Warm temperatures combined with walking, standing, and sun exposure can become draining much faster during pregnancy.
For longer sessions, snacks can also be incredibly helpful, especially if your session takes place around sunset, near dinnertime.
3. Build Extra Time into the Session
One of the best ways to make your summer maternity photoshoot enjoyable is by slowing everything down. Sessions that feel rushed often become physically exhausting much faster, especially in warm weather.
A relaxed pace also helps photos feel more natural because you’re able to move comfortably rather than trying to rush from one pose or location to the next.
And don’t be afraid to take breaks!
Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and some days simply feel more exhausting than others. During summer maternity photos, it’s completely normal to need breaks throughout the session.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Maternity Photos
Planning maternity photos during summer often comes with a lot of questions, especially when it comes to weather, comfort, and choosing the right location.
Below are some of the most common questions expecting moms ask when planning their session.
1. When is the Best Time to Take Summer Maternity Photos?
Most maternity sessions are photographed between 28-34 weeks of pregnancy. During this timeframe, your bump is usually clearly visible while you’re still relatively comfortable moving around during the session.
Every pregnancy is different, though. Some expecting moms prefer scheduling earlier if:
They’re carrying multiples
They tend to swell later in pregnancy
They’re experiencing discomfort earlier
Their doctor has recommended avoiding later travel or activity
2. What Time of Day Is Best for Summer Maternity Photos?
Sunrise and sunset are almost always the best times for summer maternity photos.
Sunset Sessions
Sunset is especially popular because:
Temperatures are sometimes cooler
The light is super soft and flattering
Golden hour gives warm, glowing tones
Sunrise Sessions
Sunrise sessions are perfect for:
Avoiding crowds
Cooler temperatures
Softer pastel colors
Midday sessions are usually avoided during summer because harsh sunlight and heat can become uncomfortable very quickly.
3. What If It’s Too Hot During My Session?
Summer maternity sessions should always be planned with comfort in mind. If temperatures are especially high, there are several ways to make the session more enjoyable:
Scheduling at sunrise or sunset
Choosing or switching to a coastal location
Bringing water and snacks
Taking breaks throughout the session
Wearing lightweight clothing
Selecting shaded locations when possible
If temperatures are way too high and switching to a coastal location is not an option, then it’s best to reschedule to a cooler date.
4. What Happens If It’s Cloudy?
Cloudy weather is actually wonderful for maternity photos.
Overcast skies create:
Soft, even lighting
Cooler temperatures
Less squinting in bright sun
A calm, dreamy atmosphere
Some of my favorite photos were taken on cloudy/overcast days because the light is incredibly flattering and soft.
5. How Early Should I Book My Summer Maternity Photos?
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for photographers, especially for:
Beach sessions
Sunset sessions
Flower fields
Vacation destinations
It’s usually best to book your maternity session at least 1-3 months in advance if possible, especially if you’re hoping for a specific photographer, location or timeframe.
Certain seasonal locations like lavender fields or sunflower farms may have very limited bloom windows, which makes planning ahead and being flexible even more important.
Whether you’re dreaming of a sunset beach session, a flower-filled garden, or a serene mountain evening, the best maternity photos usually happen when you choose a location and experience that feels natural to you.
With thoughtful timing, comfortable outfits, and a location that fits your vision, summer can be one of the most beautiful seasons to document your pregnancy.
And most importantly, don’t stress about everything being “perfect.” Some of the most meaningful maternity photos come from simply slowing down, enjoying the experience, and being fully present in this season of life.
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About Megan W Photography
Megan is a Fine Art Maternity, Couples, and Family photographer who was born, raised, and is still living in Malibu, CA. She is here to capture you and your loved ones in images that you will want to cherish, and pass down to future generations.
Not only is she a photographer, but she is a mother, wife, daughter, and sister.
Maternity, family, and couples hold a special place in her heart because she knows how quickly time flies by. Megan W Photography wants to help you preserve those sweet little smiles, those tender, affectionate moments, and the love you share with each other.
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I’m a boutique, Malibu, CA based photographer who specializes in Maternity, Couples, and families. I serve Los Angeles and Ventura County, as well as all of California. I value tangible, heirloom art pieces versus digital and I focus on quality over quantity.
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