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I'm based in sunny San Diego California. I’m originally from Japan and I’ve been on this incredible journey as a photographer since 2015.
Hi, I'm Yuka!
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Pregnancy is a time of profound transformation—a journey full of raw emotions, anticipation, and pure connection. Maternity photography in San Diego captures the beauty of this moment, focusing not just on the glow but on the authentic bond between you, your baby, and the world around you. The natural beauty of San Diego’s landscapes serves as the perfect backdrop to tell your unique story.
As someone who has personally faced the challenges of endometrial cancer at 37 and struggled with infertility, I understand the profound emotional journey that pregnancy and motherhood represent. The process of bringing life into this world isn’t always straightforward, and the moments of joy and anticipation we capture are not only about celebrating your pregnancy but about cherishing the miracle it is.
For me, maternity and newborn photos are not just about beautiful images—they’re about preserving memories that honor the strength, love, and hope that can emerge from difficult journeys. This personal connection to motherhood makes every maternity session even more meaningful. It’s about capturing not just the glow of pregnancy, but the raw emotions and authentic moments that truly define this transformative chapter of life.
San Diego offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes, but it’s not just about choosing pretty places. I seek out locations that feel intimate and true to your personality. Whether it’s the quiet waves crashing at Windansea Beach or the lush, tranquil paths of Balboa Park, each setting serves to mirror your connection and the story you’re living.
I especially love shooting maternity sessions at Coronado Beach, Windansea Beach, Scripps Pier, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and the La Jolla Tidal Pools for a coastal vibe. For a more natural, park-inspired session, Balboa Park, Old Poway Park, and Mission Trails are some of my favorite locations. Additionally, I offer intimate studio sessions for those seeking a more personal and cozy setting.
We are so lucky to take maternity photography in San Diego!
Visit my maternity portrait session portfolio and investment.
Pregnancy is about feeling, not posing. During our session, we’ll let the moment unfold naturally, focusing on the tenderness and connection between you and your body. It’s about the gentle curve of your belly, the way your hands instinctively cradle it, and the quiet power you radiate. There won’t be rigid poses—just moments where you can simply be, and I’ll be there to capture them.
This is your story, not a catalog of staged poses. We’ll embrace the raw emotions of pregnancy—the quiet moments that speak volumes, the laughter shared with your partner, or the gentle way you touch your belly. These moments, full of genuine emotion, are what make your maternity portraits unforgettable.
You’re not just creating photos; you’re capturing a moment in time that will never come again. Each frame tells the truth of your journey—how you feel, how you’ve changed, and the love that surrounds you. This isn’t just about physical beauty, but about the love, connection, and anticipation that you carry within.
Maternity photography aren’t just for today—they’re for tomorrow. These images are timeless keepsakes that you and your family will treasure forever. As you look back at them, you’ll see not just a beautiful belly, but the love and connection that were there even before your baby arrived. This is a legacy of motherhood, a reminder of the strength, vulnerability, and joy that you experienced during this extraordinary time.
To complement these heartfelt images, I offer a carefully curated collection of high-end products designed to transform your memories into tangible works of art. From heirloom albums to exquisite prints, each piece is expertly crafted to blend elegance with functionality, ensuring your memories are preserved with unparalleled quality and style.
These exclusive products, available only through professional photographers, are the result of years of meticulous research. I’ve partnered with the finest art labs in the country to bring you the best, creating keepsakes that will not only adorn your space beautifully but also become cherished heirlooms for generations to come.
The best time to schedule your maternity photography session is around 30 to 36 weeks, when the tummy is nice and round. Based on my experience and feedback from clients, 31 to 33 weeks often works well, though it may vary for everyone. It is highly recommended to book your maternity photoshoot right after your 20 week scan.
Yes, I offer special milestone packages for that. Please visit this page or contact me to inquire about more details.
Absolutely! Including your partner and other children can make the session more personal and special.
My maternity photography sessions in San Diego take place outdoors during the golden hour, which is the last hour before sunset, to capture that beautiful, soft golden light. I love scheduling sessions during this time to ensure we capture the best moments. However, if your children usually go to bed around sunset, we can schedule the session for midday. Just keep in mind that the lighting will be different from the soft golden light of sunset.
It depends on each family but usually there will be 60 or more images in your gallery.
Yes, I do. Please contact me for more information.
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Email | hello@yukaschad.com
Text me | (619)450-9242
#1142 4240 Kearny Mesa Rd STE 120
San Diego, CA 92111
Serving San Diego, Orange County and LA.
© COPYRIGHT YUKA SCHAD PHOTOGRAPHY 2025
© COPYRIGHT YUKA SCHAD PHOTOGRAPHY 2025
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• Website design by yuka schad design
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