A Swamis Beach maternity session was always going to be beautiful — but this one was meaningful to me. Mandee is a long-time friend and client expecting her second (a girl!!!), and since we’ve navigated a lot of the same seasons of motherhood alongside each other, shooting this together was super special!!

Swami’s Beach in Encinitas is one of my favorite locations in North County San Diego, and honestly one of the most underrated spots for maternity photography in the area. The golden sandstone cliffs, the lush greenery climbing up behind the beach, the palm trees, the way the water sits against all of it — it gives you a completely different feel from a typical San Diego beach session. It’s textured and organic and a little wild, which is exactly the energy we were going for.

We planned this one intentionally. Mandee fully leaned into the vision — white linen, a yellow bikini top, a cute sun hat, a blue linen over-shirt for the second half — everything came together effortlessly. Mid-morning light, bright blue skies, and enough time to move through the beach, the waterline, and up into the cliffs where the real magic happened. These are some of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken!!!

Since she came in with intention and we’d talked through the vibe beforehand, the whole session had this relaxed, collaborative energy that you can feel in every frame. That’s what happens when a client trusts you completely and you both show up with a clear vision — magic is made!

Swami’s Beach is worth considering if you’re looking for a maternity location in Encinitas or North County San Diego that feels a little different. The variety of backdrops alone — open beach, waterline, cliffs, dense greenery — means you’re never stuck with just one look. You can learn more about Swami’s Beach and Encinitas State Beach if you’re scoping it out as a location.

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If you’re expecting and looking for a maternity photographer in Encinitas or North County San Diego, let’s connect.

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