When it comes to lighting, local photographers often recommend scheduling sessions during the golden hours shortly after sunrise or just before sunset to get that soft, dreamy glow that flatters everyone. Early mornings are especially tranquil, with pastel dawn skies and beaches almost entirely to yourself. Late afternoons, on the other hand, set the stage with a warm radiance as the sun dips low, enhancing the vibrant colors of Key West’s scenery. We’ve curated five of the best locations in Key West for a luxury maternity photoshoot. For each spot, you’ll find a description of the backdrop, why it’s perfect for maternity portraits, the optimal time or season to shoot there, and some insider tips to help your session go smoothly.
Key West is a tropical paradise that offers expecting mothers an idyllic backdrop for maternity photography. This island city is one of the most photogenic places in the United States, boasting turquoise waters, swaying palms, and pastel conch-style architecture at every turn. With year-round warm weather and over 3,400 hours of annual sunshine, you can plan a session nearly any time and count on gorgeous natural light. Even better, Key West’s unique blend of beaches, historic forts, and lush gardens means you have a variety of stunning settings all within a short stroll of each other. Whether you envision barefoot portraits by the ocean or elegant poses under tropical blooms, Key West delivers a picture-perfect atmosphere with a laid-back island charm.
Let’s explore the top 5 maternity photoshoot locations in Key West that will beautifully capture your journey into motherhood.
Smathers Beach is Key West’s largest public beach, famous for its half-mile stretch of soft white sand and countless palm trees swaying along the shore. This iconic beach offers a postcard-perfect tropical backdrop: gentle turquoise waters, powdery sand, and rustic wooden walkways over the dunes. The scenery is simple yet elegant ideal for showcasing a flowing maternity gown against the serene ocean. Because the shoreline is long and open, it’s easy to find a quiet spot where you can pose beneath leaning coconut palms or even dip your toes in the calm shallows. There’s also a rocky jetty at the western end, which adds visual interest and is famous for creating epic sunset silhouettes when the evening light hits. Smathers’ “slice of life” beach vibe lends itself beautifully to relaxed, natural portraits of an expecting mother enjoying paradise.
Best time to shoot: Smathers Beach is lovely at any hour, but sunrise and sunset are magical. In the morning, you’ll catch the sun rising over the Atlantic, painting the sky in cotton-candy pastels and ensuring the sand isn’t crowded. Sunrise sessions here feel peaceful and intimate perfect if you want a tranquil atmosphere. Late afternoon is another great option; while the sun sets on the opposite side of the island, the sky often fills with golden and pink hues, and the palm trees glow warmly. Plus, the western jetty can be used to capture the last rays of daylight for a golden maternity halo behind you. As for season, winter and spring offer slightly cooler temperatures, but even summer can work if you shoot early to avoid the midday heat.
Smathers Beach has ample amenities and easy access. There is plenty of parking along South Roosevelt Boulevard and small lots by the beach all free of charge. Public restrooms, outdoor showers, and even picnic tables are available nearby for quick breaks. No permits are required for casual photography on this city beach. If you’re aiming for sunset portraits, consider a weekday to avoid any small crowds (cruise ship days can be busier), and bring along some mosquito repellent just in case the tropical dusk can invite a few bugs in the warmer months.
For a mix of historic charm and natural beauty, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a dream location for maternity photos. This park features a 19th-century red-brick fort surrounded by tropical greenery and a picturesque beach where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. The backdrops here are wonderfully diverse: you can pose against textured brick archways of the old fort, then wander down a short path to find yourself under whispering pine trees and palms, and finally end up on the rocky shoreline with gentle waves.
The beach itself is a crushed coral beach with strewn rocks, giving a rustic “untouched” look in photos. What truly sets Fort Zach apart is its famous sunset view as the sun dips low, sailboats drift across the horizon in the golden light, creating a breathtaking and romantic backdrop for maternity portraits. It’s no wonder many consider this the best sunset spot in Key West, as you can capture the sun melting into the sea with brilliant colors, all framed by the silhouette of sails and palm fronds.
Best time to shoot: Without a doubt, late afternoon to sunset is prime time at Fort Zachary. The hours before sunset let you take advantage of the fort’s shade and softer light for portraits by the brick walls. As golden hour arrives, head to the beach the entire scene will be bathed in warm, diffused light. On clear evenings the sunset here is absolutely gorgeous, with the sky turning fiery orange and pink, making for stunning maternity photos against the water.
Aim to start your session about 1–2 hours before sunset so you can explore multiple backgrounds with optimal light. While the park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until sundown, keep in mind summer sunsets are later whereas winter sunsets happen earlier. If visiting in summer, you might also consider morning sessions here the park will be quiet and the light soft coming through the trees, though you’ll miss the actual sunset view.
No photography permit is needed for a standard maternity session at Fort Zachary Taylor. There is a small entrance fee to enter the state park, so bring a bit of cash or card for the gate. Inside, you’ll find parking near the beach and picnic areas, as well as restrooms and a snack bar. Because the beach here has rocky coral instead of fine sand, bring flip-flops or water shoes for walking comfortably and for any barefoot shots, have a small towel or mat to stand on between clicks. Finally, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your intended start time this gives you time to park, reach the location, and scout a spot as sometimes it’s a popular choice for photographers. But once you’re there, get ready for truly magical sunset maternity photos!
If you want an unmistakably Key West atmosphere in your maternity photos, Mallory Square is the place. This waterfront plaza in historic Old Town is world-famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration, where each evening crowds gather to applaud the sun sinking into the Gulf of Mexico. For photography, Mallory Square offers a vibrant, city-meets-sea backdrop: think open ocean views with painted sunset skies, docked sailboats and ferry ships in the harbor, and the lively energy of Key West’s culture in the air.
As a backdrop for maternity portraits, it can add a sense of fun and uniqueness perhaps an expecting couple strolling hand-in-hand with cotton-candy clouds overhead, or a silhouette shot of mom-to-be against the golden sun dipping below the horizon. The sunsets here are often spectacular, lighting up the sky in oranges, pinks and purples. Plus, the square’s palm trees, street lamps, and occasionally even street performers can lend an interesting context to your photos, showing that you’re in a place that loves to celebrate life’s moments. Mallory Square truly captures the “vibrant spirit and magical sunsets” that make Key West unforgettable.
Best time to shoot: As you’d expect, sunset is king at Mallory Square. The best time for photos is roughly 30 minutes before sunset up to the moment the sun disappears. That way, you can get a mix of golden light and the dramatic sun-on-the-horizon shots. However, here’s the catch Mallory Square gets very busy each evening. In fact, performers, local artisans, and visitors start gathering about an hour or two before sundown to secure spots and enjoy the pre-sunset entertainment. To navigate this, you have a couple of options:
1) Embrace the ambiance incorporate the festival vibe by doing your session during the celebration. Or 2) Aim for a quieter experience consider a weekday or off-peak season evening when crowds might be thinner. Another trick is to start your shoot just after sunrise instead. At dawn, Mallory Square is virtually empty and you can capture serene water views and even some soft morning colors in the sky, all without onlookers. While you won’t have the sunset itself, the tranquility and space can be worth it for a more intimate session. If you do choose the sunset hour, plan to arrive early and stake out a less crowded corner of the square with a clear view west perhaps near the water’s edge or by a palm tree for framing.
Logistics at Mallory Square require a little strategy. Parking in this part of Old Town is limited, especially during the Sunset Celebration. There is a parking lot at Mallory Square and some street parking nearby, but spaces fill up fast it’s recommended to arrive early or even better, take a taxi or ride-share and get dropped off by the square. No permits are needed to shoot here since it’s a public square, but be mindful and courteous of the performers and crowd. If your session coincides with the celebration, expect an audience. On the other hand, if you prefer privacy, lean toward that sunrise timing or a different spot altogether. Finally, don’t forget to stay a few minutes after sunset for twilight shots; the sky glows a soft blue and the old-fashioned street lamps flicker on, which can make a lovely, romantic finale to your Mallory Square maternity photos.
For a quieter beach setting that still provides variety, Higgs Beach is a hidden gem for maternity photography. Located on the Atlantic side of Key West, Higgs Beach offers 16.5 acres of public oceanfront with several unique features in one area. There’s a small but pleasant sandy beach fringed by tropical vegetation and palm trees, often much less crowded than Smathers. Just to one side stands the long Reynolds Street Pier stretching 400 feet into the water an amazing stage for photos that require a sense of depth and drama. Imagine walking out on the pier with the vast blue ocean on either side, or leaning against the railing with your baby bump as waves sparkle behind you.
Higgs Beach also has a section of rocky shoreline and, notably, it’s adjacent to the West Martello Tower. This means within a short walk, you can get beach shots, pier shots, and even a few garden/brick archway shots all in one session. The beach’s vibe is romantic and laid-back in fact, many locals even choose Higgs for intimate Key West beach weddings, which speaks to its charm as a backdrop. For an expecting mother, the gentle scenery here can highlight serene and loving emotions, whether you’re barefoot in the sand or embracing under a palm tree’s shade.
Best time to shoot: Higgs Beach is particularly beautiful at sunrise. Facing eastward, it gives you a front-row seat to the morning sun emerging over the ocean. At first light, the pier and any clouds often glow in pastel hues, and the beach is usually empty and peaceful “most likely you will be the only one here while everyone else is sleeping,” as one photographer notes. Early mornings also mean softer light and cooler temperatures, great for a comfortable session. If you’re not an early bird, late afternoon toward sunset can also work nicely.
While you won’t see the sun set into the water, you’ll still get a warm ambient light and possibly a colorful sky. Plus, as sunset approaches, you might catch some lovely reflections on the water from the west. Another advantage: since Higgs isn’t as famous as the main tourist beaches, even around golden hour it tends to be calm. As for seasons, any time of year is fine here winters have very mild weather, and summers bring lush greenery (though a higher chance of an afternoon shower, so you might plan around any quick rain).
One of the big perks of Higgs Beach is convenience with no cost. There’s free parking right next to the beach, so you can easily park and carry your outfits or props a short distance. Restrooms and a casual restaurant are on-site too, which can be handy if you need a break or a quick change. Also, remember that the White Street Pier is open to the public; it’s great for photos but occasionally is used by locals fishing or strolling. A friendly word and a smile usually ensure everyone shares the space considerately.
No permits are needed here either. If you have time, consider combining Higgs Beach with the Garden Club at West Martello in one session start in the garden for some greenery, then step out to the beach for ocean shots. You’ll get two distinct looks without changing locations. Overall, Higgs Beach’s mellow atmosphere and mix of scenery make it a wonderful, low-stress choice for capturing heartfelt maternity moments.
For a completely different vibe from the beaches, consider the enchanting West Martello Tower and its surrounding Key West Garden Club grounds. This location is a historic Civil War-era fort turned tropical garden basically, a secret garden by the sea. Imagine crumbling old brick walls draped in vibrant bougainvillea and orchids, spiral staircases leading to little lookout points, and koi ponds and fountains tucked amidst lush foliage. The backdrop here includes romantic brick archways, courtyards with tropical plants, and ocean views peeking through the fort’s openings, offering a rich, textural setting for maternity portraits.
The Garden Club volunteers have transformed the fort ruins into a “colorful botanical garden” that feels intimate and whimsical. For an expecting mother, this spot can symbolize growth and new life, surrounded by blooming flowers and verdant greenery. You might pose under an arch of climbing vines, stand next to an old cannon embraced by orchids, or sit on a bench in a dappled sunlight patch of the garden holding your belly in contemplation. It’s a truly unique backdrop that adds an elegant, almost storybook feel to your maternity photos a lovely complement to the beach images if you choose to do both. Many small weddings, yoga classes, and events are held in this garden as well, which speaks to its serene beauty and photographic appeal.
Best time to shoot: The garden is open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, so you’ll be shooting in daylight hours. The good news is the abundance of trees and structures provides shade and filtered light, which means even mid-morning or mid-afternoon can work nicely here without harsh sun. For the softest light, try aiming for soon after opening or the later part of the afternoon when the sun isn’t directly overhead this will give you gentle lighting that flatters skin tones and illuminates the gardens warmly. If you do an early session at Higgs Beach for sunrise, you could follow it with a garden shoot here by late morning when the gardens are still quiet.
Keep in mind that because it’s a volunteer-run garden, closing time is 5 p.m., so unfortunately golden hour right before sunset will be off-limits inside the fort. However, an interesting idea is to do the garden portion earlier and then step outside to the adjacent Higgs Beach or White Street Pier for any true sunset shots. Seasonal considerations: the garden is beautiful year-round, but you might see different flowers in bloom depending on the month winter and spring often have a burst of color from bougainvillea and hibiscus. Summers are lush and green. Really, there’s no bad season here, as something is always blooming in the tropical climate.
The West Martello Tower Garden Club is free to enter yes, free! though they gratefully accept donations to help maintain this little paradise. Because it’s a public space, no permit is needed for casual photography. You’ll find a small parking area and additional free parking by Higgs Beach just outside, so bringing gowns or props is easy. When you arrive, consider making a small donation in the box to support the venue it’s run by volunteers and they do an amazing job keeping it beautiful. While shooting, be mindful of other visitors quietly touring the garden; it’s usually not crowded, but patience and a friendly attitude go a long way if someone wanders into your shot.
explore the nooks and crannies a few favorite photo spots include the archway nicknamed the “birdcage room” with its open ceiling, the courtyard fountain, and an ocean view bench on top of the fort wall. Each offers a slightly different backdrop, from rustic ruin to full tropical bloom. The West Martello Garden is a tranquil haven that can add a truly magical touch to your maternity session, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a secluded fairy-tale garden by the sea.
Your pregnancy is a profound and beautiful journey, and what better place to celebrate it than in the enchanting surroundings of Key West? From golden sunsets on the beach to the charming corners of a secret garden, the Florida Keys provide a luxury backdrop that will make your maternity photos as unique and radiant as you are.
At Senses at Play Photography, we specialize in crafting elegant, personalized maternity sessions in locations just like these. Our goal is to give you not only stunning images but also a stress-free, pampered experience from helping you choose the perfect spot and timing, to guiding you with poses that make you feel confident and glowing.
We invite you to reach out and book a maternity photography session with Senses at Play Photography. Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moment. Together, we’ll create timeless images of you and your growing family, all against the breathtaking backdrop of Key West. Contact us today to schedule your session and let’s capture the joy, anticipation, and love of this special time in paradise.
