There’s something magical about the way Ojai glows at golden hour. The soft light filtered through the oak trees, hawks flying overhead, and the Topatopa Mountains glowing in the distance, all of it came together perfectly for this bohemian cowgirl maternity photoshoot in the Ojai Valley River Preserve.

This mama-to-be embodied strength and playfulness as she walked and posed in her cowgirl boots and hat on a dusty sunlit trail with the beautiful white horse, Mr Ed, by her side. Dressed in a flowing lace skirt, cropped white top, a wide-brimmed hat, and cowgirl boots, her boho style complemented the earthy natural tones of the surrounding hills, creating a scene that felt like a dream. This is a reminder that what you wear to your session can make or break the overall look and feel to your photoshoot. This styling was a collab between the mama and myself to make sure everything was perfect.

I had been dreaming of incorporating a horse into a maternity session for a long time, and I jumped at the opportunity to include this beautiful guy. Mr. Ed brought a sense of calm, grace, and a little bit of magic. The connection between them was so genuine (he’s hard not to love), and it felt like we were capturing not just maternity photos, but a celebration of feminine power, peace, and wild beauty.

Maternity sessions like this remind me just how sacred this time is. It’s more than a growing belly, it’s a transformation into motherhood. And when that transformation is captured in a place as breathtaking as Ojai, surrounded by golden light and nature, it becomes something timeless.

If you live in the Ventura County or Santa Barbara area - or you're planning a babymoon to Ojai and considering taking maternity portraits while you're here - please reach out! I’d love to help you honor this chapter in a way that feels as magical and meaningful as the journey you're on.

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