Choosing the right location for your maternity session can completely shape the look and feel of your images. Melbourne is incredibly lucky to have access to beaches, gardens, urban backdrops, and of course, my beautiful studio in Brighton, Bayside Melbourne — Each setting offers its own unique atmosphere, allowing us to create images that truly reflect your style and story.

If you’re planning your maternity photography in Melbourne and wondering where to go, here are some of the most popular (and practical) options to consider.

Top Locations in Melbourne

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a favourite for a reason. The soft sand, open sky and gentle ocean backdrop create a calm, timeless feel. At sunset, the light here is particularly beautiful – warm, flattering and soft. If you love a pop of colour, the iconic Brighton beach boxes add a vibrant, uniquely Melbourne touch to your images.

It’s ideal if you love:

Open space
Natural light
A relaxed, coastal feel

Barefoot in the sand with a flowing dress works beautifully here. The simplicity of beach sessions keeps the focus on you and your bump without distractions.

Keep in mind that beaches can be windy, so choosing the right outfit and timing is important.

Coastal Cliffs and Textured Landscapes

If you’re drawn to something a little more dramatic, coastal cliffs and rocky formations add beautiful texture and depth to your images.

Around the bayside area, locations like Sandringham’s Red Bluff cliffs and sections of the Black Rock coastline offer stunning natural rock formations and layered coastal textures. These spots still give you that soft sunset glow, but with more visual interest in the background.

The contrast between soft maternity styling and organic textures creates a balanced, authentic look.

This option suits you if:

You like earthy tones and natural textures
You want something scenic but not overly busy
You’re after a slightly more editorial feel

Comfort is always a priority, so we keep walking distances minimal and choose accessible spots.

Green Spaces and Natural Surroundings

If you prefer greenery over sand, there are some beautiful leafy pockets throughout Brighton, Hampton and the surrounding suburbs.

Open grassy areas near Green Point in Brighton, quiet sections of Elsternwick Park, and sheltered tree-lined spaces in local reserves offer soft, peaceful backdrops. Late afternoon light filtering through trees creates a warm, intimate feel without harsh shadows.

Open grassy areas in Brighton and surrounds, along with some hidden gems in St Kilda and the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, offer beautiful, natural backdrops. Sheltered, tree-lined spaces create a soft, peaceful setting, and late afternoon light filtering through the leaves adds a warm, intimate feel without harsh shadows.

Green locations are ideal if you:

Prefer a nature-inspired look without sand
Want variety in one session (grass, trees, open sky)
Love a relaxed, organic feel

Neutral or earthy tones pair beautifully with greenery, keeping the focus on you while blending naturally into the surroundings.

Clean, Minimal Backdrops

Not every maternity session needs a dramatic landscape. Sometimes simplicity creates the most timeless images.

This style works particularly well if you love:

Soft, neutral tones
Minimal distractions
A modern, classic aesthetic

If you’re deciding between natural outdoor scenery or something more controlled, it can also help to read about indoor vs outdoor options to see which environment feels like the best fit for you.

The Importance of Good, Natural Lighting

More than the exact location, light is what truly makes a difference.

The hour before sunset (often called golden hour), or around sunrise, is my preferred time for outdoor maternity sessions. The light is soft, warm and forgiving – it enhances skin tones and creates that natural glow without harsh shadows.

Midday sun can be strong and unflattering, so timing your session carefully is just as important as choosing the location itself.

If you’re unsure, I always guide you toward spots that offer both beautiful scenery and the best possible light.

What about Studio Sessions?

While outdoor sessions are incredibly popular along the bayside, studio sessions are another beautiful option, especially if you prefer privacy and a more controlled environment.

If you’re still weighing up going indoors or outdoors, a studio session offers:

Consistent, flattering lighting
A calm, temperature-controlled space
Easy outfit changes
A clean, minimalist aesthetic
Access to amenities

Studio sessions pair beautifully with newborn sessions later on and offer a timeless look that won’t date.

Choosing the Right Location for You

The “best” location isn’t about what’s most popular, it’s about what feels right for you. Ask yourself:

Do I feel most relaxed by the ocean or indoors?
Am I comfortable walking short distances?
Do I prefer open skies or something more private?
What kind of images am I naturally drawn to?

Because I work locally around Brighton and the surrounding bayside suburbs, all of these locations are convenient and manageable, especially in the final trimester.

Let’s Choose Your Location Together

Melbourne’s bayside area offers an incredible mix of beaches, coastal textures and green spaces, all with beautiful natural light when timed well.

The most important thing isn’t choosing the most popular spot. It’s choosing somewhere you feel at ease. When you’re comfortable, the images feel effortless and natural, and that’s always the goal.

If you’re unsure where to start, we’ll talk through your preferences and find a setting that complements both your vision and your comfort. The right location simply enhances what’s already there.

Best Melbourne Locations for Maternity Photography