Best places for maternity photos in Monterey
Planning maternity photos in Monterey? These are the spots worth shortlisting, chosen for the light, the backdrop, and how easily a session comes together.
12 places to shoot maternity photos & videos in Monterey
Lovers Point Park
A rocky coastal point with turquoise coves, dramatic granite outcrops and a small sandy beach. Vivid water and rugged rocks make it a top spot for engagement and couple sessions.
For maternity photos: soft light and flowing lines that flatter a bump.
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
A scenic paved trail hugging the bay past beaches, dunes, cypress and old cannery structures. Its varied coastal backdrops suit family, maternity and engagement portraits.
For maternity photos: a calm, comfortable spot to slow down and pose.
Asilomar State Beach
A rugged shoreline of tide pools, rocky coves and sand dunes with a wooden dune boardwalk. Wild coastal beauty and soft evening light suit engagement, maternity and family shoots.
For maternity photos: a serene backdrop for the wait.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
The crown jewel of the state park system, with dramatic cliffs, cypress groves and crystalline coves. Spectacular coastal scenery suits adventurous engagement and couple sessions.
For maternity photos: soft light and flowing lines that flatter a bump.
17-Mile Drive (Lone Cypress)
A famed private coastal drive past the Lone Cypress, wind-sculpted trees, white beaches and rocky points. Iconic seascapes suit engagement and formal couple sessions.
For maternity photos: a calm, comfortable spot to slow down and pose.
Carmel Beach
A wide crescent of white sand framed by wind-bent cypress and turquoise surf below charming Carmel. Soft sand and dramatic sunsets suit engagement, maternity and family shoots.
For maternity photos: a serene backdrop for the wait.
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Del Monte Beach
A quieter city beach with dune boardwalks, tall grass and open bay views. Its uncrowded sand and dunes suit family, maternity and engagement sessions.
For maternity photos: soft light and flowing lines that flatter a bump.
Jacks Peak County Park
The highest point on the peninsula, with fragrant pine forest trails and ridge-top views of the bay and valley. Elevated vistas and shady groves suit engagement and family portraits.
For maternity photos: a calm, comfortable spot to slow down and pose.
El Estero Park
A relaxed park around a small lake with willows, footbridges and grassy banks near downtown. Water reflections and greenery suit family, maternity and engagement shoots.
For maternity photos: a serene backdrop for the wait.
Cooper Molera Adobe Gardens
A restored 1820s adobe compound in the heart of downtown, wrapped around quiet walled gardens, brick paths and a working heirloom kitchen garden. The sheltered courtyards feel calm and private, which is lovely for newborn and maternity photos away from the crowds. Soft filtered light and warm adobe walls keep the whole scene gentle and intimate.
For maternity photos: soft light and flowing lines that flatter a bump.
Mission Ranch
A restored 1850s ranch on the edge of Carmel, with grazing sheep, rolling meadows and old white farmhouse buildings looking out toward the wetlands and sea. The soft pastoral setting feels peaceful and unhurried, which is warm and easy for newborn, maternity and family photos. Golden-hour light across the meadow is quietly stunning.
For maternity photos: a calm, comfortable spot to slow down and pose.
Quail Lodge & Golf Club
A relaxed valley resort with landscaped lawns, oak-lined paths, ponds and mountain views a short drive inland from the coast fog. The manicured, sheltered grounds feel calm and private, which is comfortable for newborn, maternity and family sessions. Warm valley sun and reflecting water give soft, flattering light through the day.
For maternity photos: a serene backdrop for the wait.
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Shooting maternity photos in Monterey
It depends on the spot. Public streets and sidewalks usually don't, while many parks, gardens, and landmarks require a permit for professional sessions. Each location above notes what we found on permits — confirm the current rules and any fee with the venue or city before you book.
Golden hour — the hour after sunrise or before sunset — flatters almost every location, and each spot above lists the light that works best there. Early morning also means thinner crowds at the popular ones.
Snappr pricing is flat and set before you book, with no travel or editing surprises. Most sessions run one to two hours; you can see current rates and what each tier includes on the pricing page.
Pick your date and shoot type and we match you with a vetted local photographer who shoots in Monterey. Booking takes a couple of minutes, and you can reschedule for free if plans change.
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