A West Auckland Sunset Maternity Session
If you're looking for natural beach maternity photos in Auckland, it's hard to go past the wild beauty of the west coast.
Piha, Bethells and Muriwai are all incredible locations, but Muriwai has always had a special place in my heart. Maybe it's the dramatic black sand, the rugged coastline, or the fact that you can have such a variety of scenery within a relatively small area. Whatever it is, it makes for a pretty spectacular backdrop when you're documenting one of life's biggest milestones.
Gabby and Will's maternity session was a perfect example of why I love photographing the journey of pregnancy out here. We met on a beautiful evening and explored both Maukatia Bay and the main stretch of Muriwai Beach. Although they're only a short distance apart, they each have a completely different feel, which gives couples a wonderful mix of images in their gallery.
Why I love Muriwai Beach for Maternity Photos
Many people know Muriwai for its gannet colony and long black sand beach, but fewer know about Maukatia Bay.
Tucked beneath the cliffs, it's one of those locations that feels a little hidden away. The rocky coastline, dramatic headlands and sheltered pockets create a very different atmosphere to the open beach. It has a quieter feel, which is often perfect at the beginning of a session when people are still settling in.
One of the things I often hear from clients is that they're worried they'll feel awkward in front of the camera. The truth is that most people aren't professional models, and thankfully they don't need to be. My approach is less about posing and more about creating space for genuine moments to happen.
As we moved through the bay, the cliffs and coastline created a dramatic backdrop, but it was the connection between the two of them that really made the photographs.
Thinking of Maternity or Family Photos at Muriwai?
If you're considering maternity photos and are drawn to natural landscapes, Muriwai is one of my favourite locations in Auckland. The combination of black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, dune grass and open coastline gives so much variety, and every season brings something slightly different. Whether we're exploring Maukatia Bay, wandering along the beach at sunset, or incorporating the dunes into your session, there are countless opportunities to create photographs that feel relaxed, timeless and uniquely yours.
The best time to book maternity photos is generally between 30 and 36 weeks, when your bump is beautifully visible but you're still comfortable enough to enjoy an evening outdoors. Auckland's west coast can be unpredictable, but that's often part of its charm. Some of my favourite sessions have included a bit of wind, moody skies or changing light.
Most importantly, your session doesn't need to feel like a photoshoot. It can simply be an opportunity to slow down, spend some time together, and celebrate this season before everything changes. And if you're wondering whether you'll feel awkward in front of the camera, you're in very good company. Almost every couple tells me that before we start. By the end of the session, most are surprised by how much fun they've had.
If you're looking for a West Auckland maternity photographer and love the idea of natural beach maternity photos at Muriwai, Bethells or Piha, I'd love to help you plan something beautiful.
