We KNOW that Perth has some of the most stunning beaches, dare I say, in the world and what better way to celebrate your little bundle than a Perth maternity photoshoot. Soft white sand, blue water, the sound of the oceans crashing and the added bonus of the sunset right over the ocean.

But we know that if your pregnancy falls in the middle of Summer, it is going to be HOT. The days are hot, the nights are hot and when you are pregnant, you run even more hot. So, how do we go about a maternity photoshoot in the middle of Perth’s Summer and avoid looking like a melted ice cream? Here are some tips.

Image by Miranda Adie Photography

Timing is paramount

I cannot stress enough how important the timing of your session is. There are two times I recommend for beach sessions.

• Golden hour: this is the hour prior to the sun fully setting. The name gives it away, but this is where you get that golden glow, sun flares, the Perth horizon lights up all orange and red and beautiful. The sun is so low in the sky that it doesn’t create harsh shadows on your face or body, as it would if it were higher, and you don’t feel like you need to squint (or work hard NOT to squint for your photos).
• Blue Hour: this is the hour right after sunset. I personally love Blue Hour as it the sky takes on this haze of purple, blue and pink and creates such a romantic and intimate vibe. This is so gorgeous for maternity photos, especially if your partner is coming along to join in because this can really set a mood.

I always recommend timing my sessions using a split of golden and blue hour, such as 45 minutes during Golden and 15 during blue. Then we are getting the absolute most out of our photoshoot. We are so damn lucky to be living in Perth for this reason. If we compare Perth Maternity photoshoot beach locations to our eastern states buddies, ours are far superior…but I didn’t say that 😉

Fabrics and fits Matter

Let me preface this and say, if you have a neutral coloured bikini or favourite pair of bathers, WEAR THEM. We are at the beach in the middle of Perth’s summer, you can show off that beautiful bump and honestly, you’ll probably want to get a little wet to cool down. But over the bathers, you should aim for:

• Breathable fabrics: cotton and linen are great choices. They photograph well and you’ll feel so much better in them compared to other materials.
• Loose and flowing clothes: your loose maternity dresses and skirts will be a godsend here. You want the breeze to be able to reach you and cool you down. We can use the flowing materials to our advantage and have the wind blow the fabric to accentuate your bump and with the right materials and the sunset behind you, you can see through and see the bump so prominently. *Chefs kiss*

Prepare for the sun & heat

I know, I know. I sound like your mother. But let’s just check the UV before we head out. If we are doing a Golden/Blue Hour maternity photoshoot, this most likely won’t apply. But if not, Slip, Slop, Slap.

Hydrate

Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Yes, now I sound like your doctor. But this is so important to staying cool and being safe during our your blazing hot Perth maternity photoshoot.

Communication is key

Talk to me during our session. If you need a drink, go grab one. If you feel too hot, tired, dizzy, ANYTHING out of the ordinary, speak to me. Yes, we are here to get your maternity photoshoot done, and yes, these images are important, but not as important as your health and your babies health.

Please speak to me and keep those lines of communication open about how you are feeling. I will always do check ins and if I see you looking a little uncomfortable, I will always ask if you are okay.

Get in the water

Look, we are at the beach, it’s hot, you’re probably sweating and just ready to call it. Once we have done all the shoreline photos, let’s get wet. Get your dress wet, or just take it off completely! Embrace everything your body is doing to grow a whole human being and relish in the feeling of relief that the cool water brings on this hot Perth summer night. Just make sure you have brought a towel and a change of clothes!

Some of my favourite beaches to shoot are not the typical popular beaches. I like to look for beaches with public toilets, quiet but not isolated, close parking and clean. More on that in the next post where I’ll talk about my favourite beach photoshoot locations in Perth for Maternity and Family sessions.

Planning your maternity session and think you want a beach location, or even something different. Lets chat!

Miranda

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