The 6 Best Beach Maternity Photo Locations in Jacksonville, FL

Beach maternity photos are some of my favorite photography sessions. And let me tell you – the Jacksonville area has so many beautiful beaches to choose from. The wind, the waves, the women glowing in gowns! I love all of it! Beaches make the perfect backdrop for timeless pregnancy photos that you’ll want to keep on display for, well…ever.

The best part about Jacksonville beaches is that each has a totally different vibe, so there’s a picture-perfect shore for everyone. Some have driftwood that makes great backgrounds and others have boardwalks or rocks that are great for posing. 

So, if you’re looking for a beach maternity session, check out my six favorite Jacksonville beaches to get an idea of which one you’ll want to visit.

Jacksonville Beach 

Let’s start with the actual Jacksonville Beach (or as we call it – Jax Beach). Jacksonville Beach is perfect for maternity photography because you can get a wide variety of photos in a single session. It has a pretty famous pier and boardwalk. You can go from sitting in the sand to capturing a sunrise behind you, just beyond the pier. I recommend scheduling your session at sunrise. This provides the best lighting to enhance your pregnancy glow and avoid the crowds.

Plus, once you’re done there are great shops and restaurants nearby. You and the family can make amazing memories by planning an entire beach day.

Washington Oaks Beach and State Park

Ok, ok – this one is a little outside of Jacksonville but it is worth it! I had to add it to my list, because Washington Oaks is one of the most requested beach locations I get for maternity sessions. This is another location where you can get a wide variety of shots in one session. Not only does it have a rocky beach that makes for a beautiful background, but it also has a state park. Washington Oaks state park has a huge oak tree and gardens that are beautiful for outdoor maternity photos. 

Just check out my beach maternity session with  Avriele and Byron! We went at sunrise to capture a softer, more romantic side of their love. Mom and her belly were literally glowing and straight out of a fairy tale. Once we shook the sand off, we walked to the state park and Avriele and Byron showed just how much of a power couple they are. 

Or check out Krystie and Robert’s photos below! They are another of my beautiful Washinton Oaks couples. I really wanted to capture the sunset behind them, and look how it turned out! If you’re considering a session outdoors, you have to keep Washington Oaks in mind.

Krystie and Robert’s Washington Oaks Beach Maternity Photoshoot

Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is a great choice if you want to get in the waves during your maternity session. The waves are gentle but frequent – perfect to pose in but not get knocked over! There are also mini reeds and a sandy bridge that my Mama-to-Bes love. I highly recommend going at sunrise though, because the beach-side hotels allow just enough light to create a glowing effect.

You can see that same sunrise effect peeking from behind Meme and Shelby. Their photoshoot turned out amazing! We were able to get some shots with just Mom being the Queen she is, and some with mom and dad.

Meme and Shelby’s Atlantic Beach Maternity Photoshoot

St. Augustine Beach

Most people go to St. Augustine for the historic architecture, but I love it for the beaches and gardens. St. Augustine Beach has a unique mixture of rocks and reeds, but it is so beautiful that it makes for great photos that focus on you and your baby belly. If you’re bringing the family, the rocks make for a great place to pose or capture in-the-moment shots. If you want to capture your pregnancy glow and be the star of the show – this beach will give you that shine.

Maternity Photo Session at St. Augustine Beach

Neptune Beach

Neptune Beach is a hidden gem that my clients love! This is another location with several backgrounds to choose from. From clear beaches to green grass walls to a unique boardwalk – this beach has it all. And if you’re up to a short walk, there’s a nearby park with palms and sandy walkways.

I always have great maternity sessions here, like the one with Bri and Johnny. They are such a cute couple, always laughing! We were able to capture their love for one another and their baby girl.

Neptune  Beach Maternity Photoshoot

Big Talbot Beach and Driftwood

Big Talbot Beach is my number one requested beach for maternity sessions. Most Mamas ask for the driftwood beach and that is Big Talbot! It has a beautiful mixture of giant driftwood, clear sand, and trees that create a stunning background. 

And if you’re a photographer – this Big Talbot Beach is going to be one of your go-to’s. It’s a non-swimming beach, so you can go any time of day without having to worry about editing people out of your background. Please and thank you! It’s seriously a photographer’s dream.

Just check out Jenn and Hunter’s maternity photos from Big Talbot. They are such a fun couple and I am so happy with how their photos turned out! Her dress was stunning and we worked hard to make sure it didn’t get wet – even with their feet in the water.

Jenn & Hunter’s Maternity Photoshoot at Big Talbot Beach

Beaches Maternity Photos Are Beautiful

You can not change my mind! There’s something about the sunrise on the water that enhances your pregnancy glow and creates beautiful images. These six Jacksonville beaches are my favorite for maternity photoshoots, perfect for solo sessions or family sessions. I recommend them to all my clients and photographer friends. 

But the biggest question is…

Which beach is your favorite? Reach out to me and let me help you pick the perfect beach for your maternity photos.