La Jolla Beach Maternity Session | Kelly
Would you believe me if I said this entire shoot was inspired from a white ruffled skirt? Because, it was! I came across the skirt while shopping one day and just knew that it would photograph amazing and thought my client turned friend, Kelly, would be the perfect fit for this maternity beach vision I had. In order to bring it all to life, I knew I needed to source a few more key pieces, such as a cowboy hat. Her husband loves her in a cowboy hat, so I knew that was a must! I connected with Kelly, set up hair and makeup with the talented Betsabé of B.A.R. Beauty, and we hit the sand!
San Diego Editorial Maternity Photography
When planning and styling a shoot, it’s important for me to fully understand the visual direction of what I’m capturing, whether it be for a client or just for fun. Fortunately, Kelly’s style was already in line with what I had in mind, which was helpful! For beach shoots, I generally gravitate towards neutrals and denim because I know that photographs best. If that’s not enough for ya’, add some fun vintage props like a super 8 camera to add some liveliness and personality!
Often times I get asked by my clients, “What the heck do I wear?” I will always recommend something that’s comfortable! There’s nothing worse than being on the beach OVER DRESSED! Well, maybe there is? But by sticking to a neutral color palette you’ll win every time. Seriously think about it… When you think of the beach, you feel calm right? The water is a pale blue, the sand is the lightest shade of khaki, and the sky is beaming with bright white light. That sense of calmness you feel when you sit on the sand and watch the waves crash is how you’ll want your photos to FEEL when you look at them. That’s why you chose the beach for your session, after all! Making sense? Hang in there with me!
Clients will also ask, “When should I take my maternity photos?” My answer will always be when YOU feel most beautiful in your pregnancy. Everyone’s pregnancy journey is different, and I cannot stress that enough. Some women prefer to have their photos taken as soon as they feel that bump bumpin’, while others want their belly to be noticeably round. It’s totally up to you! We all love a good bare belly photo in some baggy jeans and a cute white top, but a simple flowy dress is just as beautiful.
Focusing on your color palette is the first step. After deciding on your color palette and mood, the next step is to focus on adding texture, layers, accessories, and lastly any additional props. Significant other? Go simple! You’re the star of the show here, babes! Whatever you wear, they should be complimenting you. It’s also great to always have backup options. What photographs well on a sunny day isn’t always what looks best on a cloudy one. FYI - a cloudy day isn’t always what’s best for your photoshoot, no matter what you’ve been told.
My goal for this session was to show women just how beautiful and sexy pregnancy can be when you invest in your session. Get the hair and makeup done. Spend the money on the outfit that’s probably over priced that you’ll only wear once. Wear that cowboy hat. Pick the location that best fits your lifestyle. But most of all, come prepared to be YOU! Xx
Vendors:
Photography: Victoria Perez Photo
Makeup: B.A.R. Beauty
Location: Windansea Beach