Booking your maternity session at sunrise may seem like a daunting achievement, but with some planning I promise this is the best way to see and explore the city of Charleston and all the Historic District has to offer. The quiet streets and lessened foot traffic make your session a breeze and this also takes advantage of the lowest temperatures of the day. The best part is that naps are totally encouraged on your babymoon, so you can always recharge after your session for more exploring later. 

Let's talk a little bit about why I'm so obsessed with sunrise in the first place, aside from the quiet streets and less foot traffic. One of the most enchanting aspects of a sunrise shoot is the soft, golden-hour light. During the early morning hours, the sun is lower in the sky, casting a warm, diffused glow that flatters every skin tone. This gentle light will highlight the natural beauty of your pregnancy and create dreamy, ethereal images that stand out in any maternity portfolio. The golden hues make skin look radiant and smooth, minimizing shadows and harsh contrasts, which can be especially flattering during pregnancy.

The early morning hours bring a sense of calm that can be hard to find during the hustle and bustle of daily Charleston life in the Historic District. The world is still, with few people around, which allows you to enjoy the tranquility of nature. This quiet setting is perfect for a maternity session, offering a peaceful backdrop that matches the serenity of this special time in your life. You’ll have the space to relax, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy the moment without distractions and massive tour groups, letting you feel comfortable and at ease during your photoshoot.

If this is your first time in Charleston I will say that between the months of April and September sunrise will offer cooler temperatures, making it a more comfortable option for a maternity session. Our summer months are among the hottest and most humid but sunrise offers the best time where we've had the most time to cool off with the sun down. As I have recently learned- During pregnancy, your body works harder to regulate temperature, and early mornings are often the perfect time to avoid the midday heat, especially in the warmer months. While it may be humid depending on the month. the cooler air will help you stay refreshed and energized throughout your shoot, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about discomfort. As a general rule though- always bring water!

Let's talk about How to Prepare for a Sunrise Maternity Shoot

To make the most of your sunrise photography session, here are a few tips for preparing:

Time it Right: Sunrise times change depending on the season, so be sure to check with me what time we're meeting and then count backwards for how long it generally takes you to get ready and feel your most awake.

Comfort is Key: Dress in something that makes you feel comfortable to start. In my Maternity Prep Guide you'll see my recommendations for maternity spanx, a supportive bra, and if you're using my client closet feel free to throw on an easy dress or leggings to meet me. I will bring along all the dresses you need to look your best.

Hydrate: Staying hydrated is key for keeping your energy up throughout the session. I will also give you all the tips on restrooms so don't worry about that part! 

Pack the Night Before: Set out everything you need to prep yourself in the morning from curling irons, to makeup, to water bottles. Pack your session bag the night before with all your essentials such as your dress shoes, comfortable shoes to change into, jewelry, touch up makeup, hair accessories or spray as well as any outfit or undergarment changes you need to bring along. Preparing the night before can settle your mind and help you relax into a better sleep while being more prepared in the morning. 

All in all, a sunrise maternity session can be an unforgettable way to celebrate your pregnancy when visiting Charleston South Carolina. With its soft, flattering light, calming atmosphere, and intimate feel, it creates the perfect environment for beautiful, meaningful photos. If you're ready to capture this magical moment in time, the early hours of the morning offer a peaceful space to do just that!