Laurén and her husband drove in from out of state to take their maternity photos in San Diego, turning their San Diego maternity session into more than just a photoshoot; it became a meaningful pause during an already transformative chapter. Choosing San Diego as the backdrop gave us coastal air, expansive skies, and the perfect setting for something intimate and cinematic.
San Diego has a quiet magic that draws people from all over the world. With its endless coastline, soft coastal light, and diverse landscapes all within a short drive, it offers an unmatched variety of backdrops in a single destination. From moody ocean blues to warm, textured cliffs and open skies, San Diego allows a San Diego maternity session to feel both expansive and deeply intimate at the same time.
The evening greeted us with thick clouds and soft light, but instead of holding us back, the overcast skies shaped the mood of the entire session. As blue hour settled in, the scene became moody, cool-toned, and atmospheric; exactly the kind of light that tells a deeper story. The result was cinematic, emotional imagery that felt timeless rather than trendy, perfectly suited for a San Diego maternity session rooted in cinematic storytelling.
To add even more depth, we incorporated both medium format film and 35mm film with flash throughout the session. Medium format gave us soft transitions, rich tones, and an elevated, almost painterly feel. With its larger negative size, medium format captures more detail, smoother tonal transitions, and a softness that feels both refined and timeless. Skin tones appear especially natural, with a gentle roll-off in highlights that flatters portrait subjects beautifully; making it an ideal choice for maternity sessions. Because medium format encourages a slower shooting pace, it creates space for presence and connection, allowing moments to unfold organically rather than feeling rushed.
The 35mm film with flash brought a completely different energy; bold, nostalgic, and full of contrast. While medium format brings softness and refinement, 35mm adds movement, spontaneity, and a raw sense of immediacy. Together, these two approaches created distinct yet complementary effects, both uniquely beautiful in their own way.
Laurén’s maternity session was a reminder that perfect light isn’t always sunshine. Sometimes, it’s clouds, blue tones, and the willingness to lean into the moment as it unfolds; a quiet, powerful celebration of life, love, and what’s to come.
To book your own San Diego maternity session, inquire here.
