Beach Maternity Photos: Tips + Tricks

With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to head to the beach with your baby bump and camera. Even if you're camera shy, you'll regret not capturing the amazing moments of your pregnancy later -- I promise!

We gathered a collection of our favorite maternity beach photos, and analyzed what these Mamas did right. Here are some tips for a beautiful (and fun!) photo shoot:

1. Maximize your GLOW! Even if you're not planning to show off a lot of skin, make sure you're feeling beautiful and confident. This should start with proper pregnancy skincare and beauty treatments before you even head to the beach! What makes you feel good? Is it a bombshell blowout? A relaxing pregnancy massage or mani/pedi treatment? You know what makes you feel ah-maaazing, so do it! Your confidence will radiate in your photos.

What we recommend? A head-to-toe exfoliating rubdown with our organic sugar scrub. It will make sure your skin looks smooth & refreshed! (Remember: We want to commemorate your beautiful bump, not ashy arms or feet.)

2. Maximize "the Golden Hour." The golden hour, sometimes called the "magic hour," is roughly the first hour of light after sunrise, and the last hour of light before sunset, although the exact duration varies between seasons. During these times the sun is low in the sky, producing a soft, diffused light that is much more flattering than the midday sun. 

3. Don't be afraid of the dark side. Even if you like the "barely there" look, cameras have a way of washing out makeup. Don't be afraid to go a wee bit heavier on the blush, eyeshadow and lipstick. Take a couple test shots when you're on location, and adjust your makeup accordingly.

4. Let your silhouette tell a story. When it comes to pregnancy photo shoots, there's nothing more dramatic and artistic than a well-done silhouette portrait. Here are some quick pointers on how to create a silhouette, and even how to do 'em on your iPhone!

5. Get creative with props! Maternity beach photos are a dime a dozen (seriously, just Google image search it), but what we love about this one in the creative use of a frame. Whether it's a crown of flowers, balloons or small chalk sign with your baby's name on it, you don't have to put in a whole lotta effort (or money) for photos that are uniquely your own.

6. Play dress-up. A photo shoot is a good excuse as any to play dress-up. Do you love classic pin-ups? Are you a romantic hippie at heart? Don't be afraid to don flowers in the hair, wear a dramatic flowing skirt or be a little "over the top." If it helps, decide on a theme for your photo shoot, and let your imagination go from there!

7. Tell a story. Let these photos be a snapshot of your life, because remember -- everything is about to change! Involve your current children, significant other and even the family pet. If you're camera shy, involving others is a great way to relax and take some of the pressure off as well.

8. Just be comfortable, dammit. Many Mamas don't feel comfortable letting it all hang out -- and that's totally okay! This beautiful set of maternity photos show it's not all about skin. We think she looks absolutely glowing in a long peach skirt and cozy sweater...gorgeous!

9. Just have fun! No matter what, the rule of thumb is to relax enough to have fun. There's no hiding a self-conscious face or stiff posture, so surround yourself with good company and just get silly!

Have you done a maternity photo shoot? Let us know your tips and tricks!