Cannon Beach Maternity Photoshoot

There’s something endlessly inspiring about photographing at Cannon Beach. The dramatic coastline, the shifting light, the way the water glazes the sand just enough to mirror the sky—it all adds up to a dreamlike setting. For this maternity session, the couple envisioned something creative yet timeless. They wanted portraits that felt artistic but still rooted in classic maternity style. With a sunset that delivered an absolute show and a peaceful evening by the sea, we got just that.

Cannon Beach isn’t just iconic—it’s versatile. Whether I’m photographing elopements, engagements, or maternity sessions, this stretch of coastline offers something unique every time. One of my favorite features is how the sky reflects in the wet sand when the tide rolls out. The colors—soft pastels or fiery oranges—blend beautifully with natural elements like sea grass and basalt formations.

How to Get There

Cannon Beach is located about 90 minutes west of Portland, making it a very doable day trip or weekend getaway. The drive is scenic and straightforward: just follow U.S. Route 26 west until it connects with U.S. 101. Once you’re in town, there’s plenty of beach access, with public parking and walking paths that make it easy to reach wide-open stretches of sand.

For this shoot, we timed our arrival to give us space to warm up in the early evening light, then positioned ourselves near the waterline as the sun dropped. Sunset timing shifts throughout the year, so planning around golden hour is key—especially if you want that mirror-like surface on the sand.

Where to Eat in Cannon Beach

If you're making a day of it—or planning your own shoot here—there are some great local spots to grab a bite before or after. A few of my go-tos:

• Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters – A cozy, beloved coffee shop perfect for fueling up before a morning shoot.

• Pelican Brewing – Great for post-shoot bites with a view of the ocean. Their fish tacos and craft beer are worth the stop.

• The Wayfarer – A more elevated option with Pacific Northwest cuisine and gorgeous views of Haystack Rock.

• Insomnia Coffee – If you're looking for something more low-key, their espresso and outdoor seating are perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

A Location That Keeps Giving

What made this particular session so special wasn’t just the scenery or the epic light—it was the feeling of it all. There’s something about Cannon Beach that slows you down. It invites you to be present. To watch the colors shift in the sky. To notice the curve of a wave or the way sea grass sways in rhythm with the wind.

That atmosphere, paired with a couple who genuinely embraced the experience, gave us a session full of movement, emotion, and beauty. These are the kinds of moments I love to capture—not just portraits, but a whole sense of place.

If you’re considering a maternity session on the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach is one of the best backdrops you could ask for. And if you want to blend creative photography with natural elegance, there’s no better place to start.

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