A Coastal Cowboy Maternity Session at Montana de Oro | Chelsea & Family

Some sessions feel like they carry a little extra magic, and Chelsea’s was one of those. Expecting her second baby — a little girl named Audrey — she wanted to remember this sweet season with her family before everything shifted into their next chapter. Chelsea had won this session with me through a YMCA raffle, and she came with just one request: a photo of her son, Bodhi, kissing her belly. That moment was at the heart of what she wanted to hold onto.

Montana de Oro is one of my favorite spots for a maternity session on the Central Coast. The rugged coastline, golden light, and wide open spaces make it the perfect backdrop for any family. Pair that with a Coastal Cowboy theme — denim, boots, and a touch of western charm — and it was a dream setting for this shoot

Capturing This Season

One thing I admired about Chelsea is how she’s adjusted her expectations around photo sessions with little ones. Early into motherhood, she realized they rarely go exactly as planned — and that’s perfectly okay. Instead of striving for perfection, she embraces candid, organic moments that reflect the truth of her family’s life right now.

With Bodhi, that meant lots of laughter, movement, and even pretending to be dinosaurs (his favorite!). He’s such a smart, well-spoken little boy, and he brought so much life to the photos. And of course, we captured that sweet image of him kissing Chelsea’s belly — the perfect way to celebrate baby sister Audrey before she arrives.

Tips for Planning a Maternity Session with Toddlers

Maternity sessions become even more meaningful when siblings are involved, but they also require flexibility. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning:

• Adjust expectations. Toddlers aren’t always going to sit still, and that’s okay. The best images often come from candid, in-between moments.

• Incorporate play. Whether it’s dinosaurs, bubbles, or exploring the beach, giving little ones something fun to do makes the session more relaxed.

• Keep it short. Kids have limited attention spans, so mix in a few posed moments with lots of play.

• Focus on connection. The snuggles, giggles, and belly kisses often become the most treasured photos.

A Personal Note

Chelsea’s maternity session at Montana de Oro was such a beautiful reminder of what makes this work meaningful: not just documenting milestones, but capturing the love and anticipation that comes with them. Soon, Bodhi will be a big brother, and this season will shift into something brand new.

As a family photographer on the Central Coast, I feel so honored to have been

part of this chapter for Chelsea and her family. These photographs will always tell the story of a little boy waiting for his sister and a mama savoring these fleeting moments before life changes again.

✨ Expecting your own little one? Let’s plan a maternity session that reflects your story — whether it’s at Montana de Oro or anywhere else along the Central Coast.

Lets Plan My Shoot!