Top Boudoir & Maternity Photography Near Me San Diego

Expert Boudoir & Maternity Photography in San Diego

Enjoy an empowering experience & get stunning boudoir or maternity pictures.

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Maternity Photography

Our photographer knows the best poses for every type of pregnant body and makes moms feel amazing.

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Boudoir-Style Photography

Embrace your body and let us make you feel like a goddess by having a guided boudoir photo shoot.

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Female body is a masterpiece we immortalize

At Portraits By Z, we specialize in creating elegant, fine art boudoir and maternity photographs that celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of every woman. We bring out all the beauty you possess and encapsulate it in our photos, yours to cherish forever.


Why choose us for your boudoir & maternity pictures

Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography offers so much more than a photo session. We carefully plan and personalize this empowering experience so that you feel comfortable and gorgeous from start to finish.

  • Having a free virtual or in-person consultation;
  • Getting pampered by our hair & make-up team;
  • Working with one of the best boudoir & maternity photographers in San Diego;
  • Receiving gorgeous & high-quality pictures you’ll cherish forever.
empowering boudoir pictures in san diego

Zeynep Dogu

San Diego’s prominent boudoir & maternity photographer

Our multi-talented photographer comes from an artistic family. Zeynep, the founder of Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography, fell in love with photography, specializing in maternity and boudoir photos as she loves empowering women of all ages, stages, and backgrounds while making them feel and look gorgeous. She’ll answer all your questions, give you suggestions on interesting San Diego localities, guide you through the poses, and help you highlight your best features.

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leading boudoir photographer in san diego

Boudoir Experience

Before & After

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Get familiar with our process

Step 1

First, we'll schedule an in-person or Zoom meeting to get to know both you and your vision.

Step 2

Then, you'll visit Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography and receive professional hair and make-up styling together with an expert shoot.

Step 3

Lastly, we'll schedule a viewing session where you can hand-pick the favorite photos from your maternity or boudoir shoot.

From tips to results: Your journey with Z

At Portraits by Z, we take care of every single detail. From your wardrobe, makeup, look, feel, and vibe, to lighting, poses, scenery, and details, we guide you every step of the way until you finally have your photos in hand, immortalizing your essence.

Not sure what to wear? We have a selection of wardrobe choices which we perfectly complement with flattering makeup. Don’t know the direction you’d like your shoot to take? We have plenty of ideas to propose until we find the perfect vibe for your session. Unsure about the color vs black & white choice? We’ll do both.

We’re here to make you shine, and shine you will.

Our past clients have loved our professional approach

What an experience! After a life time of battling self image issues, pregnancy came with a whole new set of insecurities. Growing larger but knowing you need to is quite the conundrum to contest with and the back and forth between loving what is happening to me and ridiculing myself endlessly had become exhausting to say the least. So when I started to see advertisements for maternity boudoir shoots, I immediately said nope! Not for me. That’s for the thinner women. For the fitter women. The tanner women. The less tattooed women. All the women that weren’t me.

And yet I couldn’t get Zeynep’s images out of my head. Of course she had the thin and the tan but going through her feed, I also saw the heavier and the tattooed. I saw myself in her photos. I had two consult calls with Zeynep because I backed out after our first. I was still battling with the internal dance of “not me” but something about her reassuring, professional and yet goofy demeanor convinced me to give it a shot. And gave it a shot I did.

Day of the shoot she had an incredible hair and makeup lady who made me feel like a million bucks. Come time to shoot, Zeynep made sure to model the poses first which immediately puts a gal at ease. Throughout the shoot, Zeynep somehow found all the things I thought were awful about myself and complimented them. She made me feel like I belonged- like I was the type of woman who was meant to do maternity boudoir shoots.

Now the photos. I could write a novel about what the photos made me feel. Over a zoom call Zeynep showed me just shy of 100 different incredible photos of myself and I truly couldn’t believe my eyes. That wasn’t me. There just was no way… and yet there I was. A woman who very much belonged in front of a camera and Zeynep made that happen. She gave me the poses, she gave me the reassurance, she gave me the hair and the makeup and in the end she gave me photos that made me cry. Photos that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Photos that made me see myself in a whole new light.

She made me one of those women who were meant to do maternity boudoir photoshoots and because of that, I couldn’t recommend her services more.

Ashley Spurgeon

My husband booked my photoshoot as a surprise anniversary gift while we were on vacation in San Diego. So glad he went with Zeynep! She made me feel so comfortable and confident before and during the shoot. And gave excellent advice on how to pose, since this isn’t something I’ve done before. She was helpful if you needed help finding outfits before the shoot, was quick to respond through text. Her studio was easy to get to as well. Would highly recommend if you’re in the San Diego area, whether you’re visiting or live there.

Amber Battle

Every woman should experience being photographed that truly brings out her essence and natural beauty. My desire to celebrate myself is how I found Portraits By Z and it was such a wonderful experience. There is true beauty in every person regardless of color, shape, size, and age. Z really has a passion and commitment to help women enhance the beauty that we all already have within, and, she is truly an EXCELLENT AND PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER! I enjoyed my entire photoshoot. What makes my experience even more wonderful is how Z is relaxed, calm, and inherently creative…. I admire her wit and work style giving boudoir photography a means to justify that all women are indeed beautiful. Thank you Z! You are a diamond in the world of photography!!!! I wish you continued blessings and more success!!!!

Lorna Mayo

Zeynep was sensational to work with from the beginning to the end. She is sweet, fun and professional. She walked me through each and every pose. The quality of the photos are amazing. She made me feel confident and beautiful. Amazing experience!!!! Highly recommend Z!!!!!

Pam Lara

I always wanted to do a boudoir shoot but was always nervous. I stumbled on some beautiful pics from Z and thought this would be perfect as a gift for my husband’s bday. I came in unsure how to pose but Z guided me through everything. There were times I thought I’m probably not doing this right, but when I saw the pictures…I was shocked! Z made me look like a professional! She was just amazing through it all and was sooo patient. If you’re looking to do one, go to Z and trust the process! You won’t be disappointed! Thank you, Z!!

Bianca Baquirin

An absolutely amazing experience! As a first timer, she made me feel so comfortable and got so many fantastic pictures. 100% reccommend!

Cassandra Grace

Search no further for your next boudoir photo needs. Z was a joy to work with! She makes you feel comfortable, beautiful, and gives very good tips on how to look your best. Perfect for beginners and experienced people alike!

Jecin Chen

Portraits by Z is so AMAZING!!! This is my 8th shoot with her and every time she inspires, thrills and surprises me with what I get!! I cherish the images and experiences so much and I always leave feeling beautiful!

Kaitlynn Williams

Could not recommend her enough!!! Honestly the entire experience was super enjoyable, from the very first consult till the end, Zeynep was incredible. During the shoot she made me feel so confident, she posed me nicely, and it was just overall a fun time. And the photos WOW she did SOOO good i was so obsessed with all my photos. 20/10 experience & recommend Z for your shoot. You won’t regret how sexy your boudoir photos come out.

Vanessa

Z is amazing! I can’t say enough! She made me feel beautiful, comfortable and we laughed during the shoot! The proofs are gorgeous beyond my expectations and I’m looking forward to receiving the final product!

Erin Bynum

Zeynep was such a pleasure to work with! The professionalism and fun energy made this experience worth it! Pictures come out so beautiful and Zeynep was easy to contact with any questions. Would totally recommend to a friend!

Gabrielle Jennings

I had an amazing experience with Z! She is so sweet and fun to talk to on top of her being so professional. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience for my first ever photo shoot. So happy that I came across her website and scheduled with her.

Sophia C

Zeynep made the whole process so enjoyable and comfortable. I forgot sometimes that I was even naked. The end result was absolutely AMAZING.

Katie Marquez

Portraits by Z is an amazing woman, very professional and welcoming. She did a wonderful job and I love all my photos . I am glad I took this photos , reach out to her and you will never regret you did. Thank you so much portrait by Z

Stella Awittor

Great experience from beginning to end

Z is very professional, caring and enthusiastic about her work.

Our photos came out great, she supplies outfits /different background sets and she will work with you to ensure your vision is met.

Crystal Horton-Taylor

Zeynep’s work is pure art. It is timeless. It doesn’t matter when you are looking back at these images, even in the late 80s and 90s, your current chapter is forever documented in the most tasteful, elegant, and stunning way. I highly recommend Portraits by Z!

Julia Badei

I had a very wonderful experience with Z and I can’t recommend her enough. Not only was the studio clean and inviting but Z and her team were absolutely stellar. Her level of skill and professionalism are unmatched and my photos ended up so beautiful that I could hardly believe it was me. If you’re going to book a boudoir or maternity shoot you should definitely book with her!

Isabella Howry

10/10 recommend 👌🏾 Portraits By Z. I was so comfortable during my session. Zeynep coached me through all the poses and my pictures came out amazing!

Korral Taylor

I recently had the most amazing boudoir shoot with Portraits by Z, and I can’t recommend her enough! From the moment I walked into the studio, I felt welcomed and at ease. Zeynep is an absolute professional and truly has a gift for making you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

The session was both fun and empowering, and Zeynep’s attention to detail was incredible. She guided me through each pose with patience and encouragement, ensuring that every shot captured my best angles. The lighting and set design were perfect, creating a stunning and intimate atmosphere.

When I received the final photos, I was blown away. The quality and artistry exceeded my expectations, and each image was a beautiful reflection of the experience. Zeynep’s talent for capturing raw, authentic beauty is truly unparalleled.

If you’re considering a boudoir shoot, do yourself a favor and book with Portraits by Z. You won’t be disappointed! This experience was a 5-star, unforgettable journey of self-love and empowerment. Thank you, Zeynep, for creating such a memorable experience!

Ashley Younce

Wonderful experience and incredibly happy with the quality of the photos! I did a boudoir maternity shoot with my husband and felt at ease with the poses and comfortable at the studio. Very professional, artful, creative, and responsive to all questions. Highly recommend!

Tiffany Hartner

I found Zeynep online after doing a search for boudoir photographers who have worked with plus sized women in the past. She was the first result from the search. From the initial conversation to the shooting process to the discussions afterwards to view and purchase images/packets, everything was incredibly comfortable and easy. I never in a million years thought my images would turn out as beautiful as they were! Z was an absolute pleasure to work with and could not have made this any easier. I couldn’t recommend her any more! It was an amazing experience.

Kim Van Nguyen

She did an amazing job with my shoot and made me feel comfortable and confident. The editing is also very beautiful.

Sarah Wysocki

I had a wonderful experience shooting with Z! I was looking for someone to take a fun and memorable boudoir shoot for my 25th birthday, and Z was so helpful in answering questions and making suggestions for my photo viewing when it came to choosing my photos for my boudoir album. I highly recommend at least doing the pinup collection as it feels like the perfect package. The reason I chose her over other options was because edits seemed very professional and I had confidence my photos would turn out stunning!! Would definitely choose her again if I had the opportunity to do it over.

Danielle Lord

Z was fantastic to work with! Made the process seemless and easy. Of course, doing this for the first time feels a little bit awkward, but Z guided me throughout the experience!

Pictures came out great as well.

10/10 would recommend. ❤️

Shelley Badayos

Working with Zeynep was a bliss from beginning to end. I really enjoyed her personality and she made me feel very comfortable. She’s has a great sense of humor and is very down to earth. I think all these qualities are so important when doing a boudoir shoot since it will impact how comfortable you look on your photos. I highly recommend.

Angela George

Such a fun and amazing experience! Love the results. I was super nervous since it was going to be my first time and I never liked having my pictures taken but it was made easy by Zeyneb being there to help from the beginning to end.

Lizbeth Hernandez Vazquez

All I am going to say, is she is AMAZING!!! She took my pictures and made me look astounding in my pictures. All super natural she helped me a lot possing for my pictures making me feel comfortable. She also give me my pictures super fast and I would like to recommend her to everybody. To make beautiful memories of your body. I give her five stars🌟

Tanya Terrell

Zeynep is wonderful! I felt comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire process. I sincerely appreciated her instructions regarding posing as they were clear and easy to understand. I had so much fun during the shoot and after while picking my favorite photos. Thank you Zeynep!

Gia V

10/10 Chef’s Kiss 💋 is what I would rate my experience with Portraits by Z! She is such a warm and welcoming woman and made me feel comfortable and we laughed the whole time as I attempted to pose and eventually got it! (Never did a photoshoot of any kind before haha). She was very accommodating to my needs with water and snacks and to how I was feeling about outfits which I loved. 🥰 when I was shown the soft edit of my shoot I was about speechless! I never knew I could be that beautiful, and SHE made me see that!! Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart!! 💜

Heather Fiorentino

Zeynep is amazing! I did a boudoir shoot with her and have never felt more confident or comfortable. The whole process was so much fun from start to finish. Loved the hair and makeup! She was great at instructing me on how to pose (especially my hands). The finished product is so amazing and I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone!

Renee Payne

Amazing work, Portraits by Z makes you feel comfortable and confident during your session.

Alyssa Ulloa

Zeynep made my whole experience so incredible!! She made me feel so comfortable and beautiful. She provided great direction and is so talented. The photos are absolutely gorgeous! Highly recommend!

Brittany Paulk

I am so happy I did a maternity shoot with Zeynep! She made me feel so comfortable and the pictures came out beautiful. I’ve done a boudoir shoot before and it felt so rushed. Zeynep did not rush at all. She took her time to focus on the details. And I loved that my hair and makeup was done right in studio. I highly recommend Zeynep!

Corrin Phillip

I really didn’t know what to expect but I knew this was something I wanted to do for my 50th birthday. Z walked me through every step of the way on what to do to be prepared, all the way down to what to wear (or not wear) when I arrived. Her studio is warm and cozy, the hair and makeup artist made me look beautiful, and Z made me feel so comfortable. I’m so glad I used her services and the pictures turned out better than I could have imagined!!

Maggie Zarick

I had the best time & most amazing experience!! This was my first time doing anything like this. Even if you go in without any prior knowledge of photo shoots & how to pose, Z shows you how & makes you feel beautiful!!! She has an artist do your hair & makeup & then the shoot takes about 3-4 hours. Definitely worth the experience & price. She also has payment plans!!! & to top it off, my photos are the best thing I’ve ever seen!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much, Z!!!!😍

Marie Ayala

What an amazing boudoir experience! Zeynup takes care of everything! You will look and feel amazing during the entire shoot! I highly recommend Portraits By Z, she made everything comfortable, fun and the images are gorgeous! This far exceeded my expectations!

Sharon Ferguson

Zeynep is a queen and she knows what she’s doing. I think I happened to come across her on instagram and I feel so lucky that I did. She was so helpful before and during the process, knows how to tell you to pose to make your body look incredible, and takes incredible photographs. I could not be more excited about my collection. Would recommend her to anyone!

Jessie Masch

I was very nervous to go into this experience as it was my first time and I found Z through Yelp. I spoke to her and she talked me through the process and then the day of my shoot she was so professional and friendly. I felt so comfortable through the whole experience that time just flew by. We then scheduled our viewing and I loved my images – this only made it harder to pick my favorites! I can’t wait to share the final album with my husband.

Damaris Chavez

Best experience ever! Originally had the photoshoot so I could gift my fiance something special, but by the end of the shoot, it felt more like a gift to myself. Zeynep made me so comfortable from beginning to end…we were laughing and having a great time – 10/10 recommend. And then when we reviewed the photos – WOW. She’s a talented photographer and overall one of the sweetest humans I’ve ever met. Hope to book another shoot with her ♥️

Sarah Park

Zeynep was amazing, she immediately made me feel at ease both with her and myself, which made my whole experience a good one! She made me feel empowered and confident throughout my shoot, and I still feel that way when I see my pictures!

Serena Kaji

This was an amazing experience! She was so friendly and made me very comfortable through the photo shoot and was always very communicative before and after each process. Picking the photos was a breeze and she offered insight when I was stuck. Absolutely a remarkable experience all the way through! Thank you so much ❤️❤️

Jackie DeHaven

I walked in there super nervous

But the photographer made me feel so comfortable in my own skin! I came out of there feeling empowered! And beautiful. It was an experience I will never forget. Z the photographer does an amazing job offering support and tips to prepare before the shoot!! That was super helpful.

Stephanie Rodriguez (StephiiRocks)

I’m so glad I chose Z when I decided to gift myself a boudoir photo shoot this last fall. It was a big deal to me, and an investment that I didn’t take lightly. Her studio is clean, sleek, and sexy, and it really contributed to the creation of a stunning photo collection for my memories.

Z is great at communicating throughout the process, and prompt to answer any questions. Also, when I had scheduling issues come up she was understanding and accommodating. She has a wonderful, creative, and warm energy and was a pleasure to work with. I LOVE my photos, and I highly recommend choosing Z for a shoot that will capture your beauty for years to come!

Chelsea Meier

Absolutely recommend! Z is very professional and has a true eye for beauty. She works very quickly to get you what you need, and during the shoot she was very accommodating to my vision of my maternity shoot. After the shoot is over, she is super efficient with getting things back to you quickly. I will use her again.

Jerryel McWilliams

10/10 recommend! Z is super empowering and make you feel so beautiful and comfortable. The process was such a wonderful experience from the make up with andrea to the photo shoot with Z. If you’re feeling a little self conscious about your body image, this is perfect for you. You will come out feeling more confident with yourself and your body image. The product of the photo session is incredible as well. I fell in love with my photos! Great quality, great energy, great vibes! An incredible experience all around!! If you had any doubts i hope my review settled your mind. If it didn’t then go out there and step out of your comfort zone. You will feel super comfortable i promise!

Jenny Torres

Z was so amazing! This was my first time taking intimate pictures and she made me feel so comfortable and beautiful! I loved Z and the gorgeous photos she took. 🥰

Autumn Hoffman

I had a wonderful time at my shoot with Z! She helped guide me in all my poses, made me feel comfortable and best of all got some great photos out of it!!! Thank you Z for such a great experience!

Sarah Quijada

I had a great experience doing my maternity shoot with Z! She was great and I felt comfortable the whole time. She’s amazing at what she does and all my pictures turned out beautiful! I couldn’t be any happier with the results.

Kayla Burmeister

I came to choose Zeynep for my recent maternity photo shoot after scouring the internet for local photographers. Whilst many I saw produce equally beautiful images,, as an artist myself I saw Zeynep also had an added artistic element to her photography. This added an intimate touch celebrating the female form, which appealed to me. So after taking the plunge to go with her, I was not disappointed. The photo shoot was fun from start to finish. Beautiful results which captured the sacred time of pregnancy in pictures. The beautifully matted prints, will provide joy for generations to come and not least for my daughter of how much I treasured having her. The smiles caught on camera will say it all. Last but not least, Zeynep was a pleasure and easy to work with as she was real, down to earth and with a great sense of humour. So her personality is a big selling point aside from her obvious talent. I would highly recommend her.

Elaine Whittle

Zeynep is absolutely amazing!! I booked her for a maternity shoot and the photos came out even better than I imagined! My friends and family were simply obsessed. She has an incredible eye and makes you feel SO comfortable throughout the shoot. I cannot thank her enough for capturing such a special time in my life so perfectly 🙂

Mariam Hashimi

I had the BEST experience! Zeynep made my entire boudoir experience fun and enjoyable. She had amazing ideas, told me how to pose, where to look and kept complimenting me throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for someone who ensures that your experience is comfortable – she is the one for you! Her communication was amazing, the picture results were absolutely beautiful and she made sure that my order was sent as soon as possible! I will 100% return!

Dion Kirkland

I came across Portraits by Z on instagram and I was just blown away by how elegant all of her photos are. This is my first baby and I really wanted to do something special to remember this moment in my life and Zeynep did all that and more. From booking a phone appointment where she throughly explains the process, walking in to her beautiful studio, the make up artist, to her hand picked wardrobe, her patience with me, her guidance … everything was just amazing and I felt so comfortable. I truly cannot explain in words how thankful I am and how beautiful these photos came out! You can definitely see she has such a passion for what she does! I am eternally grateful!

Devonaye Felton

Zeynep is an amazing photographer that truly sees the beauty in the female body. Her photos are extremely artistic and beautifully shot. She made me feel so comfortable during the entire process. She is a joy to be around and extremely professional. I would recommend her to anyone who wants gorgeous maternity or boudoir photos.

Valencia Youkhanna

I was fortunate enough to experience a boudoir photoshoot with Zeynep at her studio here in San Diego. The pictures came out stunning, but more so than that, the entire experience was amazing. I’m a plus size woman (size 14/16) with a very large bust. She made me feel incredibly beautiful and put so much thought and effort into how to best pose my body. She was able to accentuate my natural curves and beauty without making me feel self-conscious about what others may view as “imperfections” (i.e. double chin, rolls, etc). She was kind, patient, and funny. I have always been intimidated by the thought of a boudoir session and my only wish now is that I’d done it sooner. I can’t imagine a better photographer to make you feel both sexy AND comfortable. Thank you for everything, Z.

Tina Tsutsui

Zeynep is the best photographer! She made me feel so comfortable and was very helpful in showing me how to pose (I had never done a photoshoot before). The images turned out more beautiful than I could’ve imagined. I highly recommend her.

Abbie Gammill

Had an amazing time with Z, she’s super welcoming and did an amazing job with our photos! So happy with our pictures!! And she’s such a sweet person, her MUA did an amazing job as well!!

Karla Estrada

My husband and I absolutely loved working with Z. She was not only a great photographer but a really fun person to spend the day with. I highly recommend her for your maternity or boudoir photos. She is dedicated to her art and craft.

During the entire shoot she went out of her way to guide and make us feel comfortable and safe especially on the beach. Book your shoot today!

Nicole Cangemi

My experience with Z was AMAZING! She made me feel like a super model. Gorgeous pictures! Highly recommend!

Candis Corsaro

It is my first time doing Maternity Shoot. at first I am not super confident how to pose since I don’t have any experience with Professional Photographer. But Z makes it really fun and exciting. and I feel so comfortable with her. Me and my Husband did really have a good time with her. and all my pictures turns all amazing!! I love all of it! she did bring out the best of me. my Maternity shoot with her is one of the best memories!

M A R I A

This was my first time doing a professional maternity shoot of this capacity and I am so glad I had the opportunity to do it here. All the pictures came out so beautiful! I had a wonderful time during the shoot and she really took her time to direct me and get the perfect shot.

I also loved that she had great hair and outfit ideas all planned out. I felt extremely comfortable during the entire shoot, which is rare for an awkward individual like me who hates all the attention on herself. She really knows what she is doing and I will definitely be a returning customer.

Liz Carrillo

I wanted to suprise my husband for a unique gift in our 10 year anniversary with a boudoir photographs and just had a session with Zeynep. I never could imagine the results would be this amazing! She prepared me a gift box with photos and my husband was absolutely speechless when I gave it to him!

Sema Oztas

I had an amazing boudoir photo shoot with Zeynep as a birthday gift for myself and couldn’t be happier with the results. The experience was priceless! They did my hair and make up while I was sipping my wine. I was guided throughout the shoot and felt very comfortable. The album I received it an absolutely stunning keepsake. I definitely recommend Portraits by z to anyone considering boudoir portraits.

Ern Ern

I had tears in my eyes when she sent me a sneak peak of my maternity photo perfectly on Mother’s Day. Had a great time at this photo shoot, she was easy to work with, had great outfit, hair, makeup suggestions. She made it easy to come out of my comfort zone for some maternity nudes.

She really took her time to capture some great maternity photos, including of my family. She was patient with my toddler.

She partners with the most wonderful hair & makeup artist, I definitely recommend having it done there since they are better able to coordinate together to make the photos come out so amazingly.

Stephanie Cheung

Z helped me on a personal project that I was working on a few months back. The project centered around growth and maturity. Both her and her studio were warm and inviting. I truly appreciated her generosity, attention to detail, and overall sense to serve my needs. Thank you Z! 🙏🏾

Mariella Hayes

Thank you Z, you did an amazing job on my photoshoot for my 33rd bday 🤎🤍💋

Ingrid Carter

Boudoir photos…out of my element, for sure but Zeynep was awesome to work with and made the whole experience easy and fun. My husband was thrilled with this gift for our anniversary, Thanks Z!

MC Mackinen

When we saw her work me and my wife were truly impressed, her photos was amazing! We wanted to shoot my wife’s maternity pictures. She is so professional she guided my wife through photo shoot.We also enjoyed a lot we had fun in her studio one of the best experience in our life.The pictures was stunning. No doubt Zeynep Portraits By Z is the best, Hope to see you in my next child!

Hasan Çetin

The only place I trust my wife with boudoir photography, I was gifted the most elegant box with many sensuous surprises inside! I couldn’t be happier!!!

Bruce Cheney

My experience with photographer Zeynep Dogu was absolutely fantastic! I was impressed by her portfolio and decided to have her take my maternity photos. The whole process exceeded my expectations! She is the consummate professional and makes you feel comfortable even when you’re wearing next to nothing! Turnaround time for the photos and finished product was quick and everything is flawless. I highly recommend Portraits by Z if you’re considering a photo shoot! Zeynep will make you look and feel amazing! Thank you so much for everything!

Pomaya Wyatt

I had an absolutely amazing experience with Zeynep! When we saw her work me and my husband were truly impressed and knew she was the one who would we wanted to shoot our maternity pictures. She truly does an amazing job. We are beyond amazed by the outcome of our shoot. Would 10/10 recommend!

Jasmin Ulloa

It’s amazing studio where you can feeling comfortable. The atmosphere allows you to relax. Professional photographer.

Olena Khanasyk

I was looking for a photographer to take my pregnancy pictures and as soon I saw Zeynep’s work I fell in love with it!!!

When I reach out to her, she was super fast to reply an easy to book!!!

When Zeynep took my maternity pictures was so difficult to choose what pictures I wanted because all of them were stunning ❤️

If you are looking for maternity , boudoir or family pictures I highly recommend Zeynep 😉

Andrea Cardona

This brand is number 1 as a photographer. I strongly recommend Amazing shots and super experience. She is also so calm and very patience 🌺

Muge Bbb

What an amazing experience with an extremely talented photographer! I have taken fashion photos in the past.. This was my first boudoir shoot and she made me feel so comfortable and beautiful during the shoot. Picture turnaround was fast and the results were beyond amazing ..I would recommend Z

Dejourne Henry

Zeynep is very professional photographer. Her photos, her vision are of the highest level. She is very attentive to details and you can see every detail as the best detail in your photos. I loved working with her. Every photo is like a masterpiece. I really love all her photos.

Oksana Piddubna

I had a maternity shots with By Z. She is amazing very professional and creative. We had 2 sessions -with baby and without baby- She is really care baby as well while shooting session. I definetly advice her. 🤶🎀

Minik Dusler

Portraits By Z has been the best photography experience of my life. Zeynep is exceptionally talented, and she has made me feel fantastic with every detail she had prepared for our session. The atmosphere when I walked into her studio, the backdrop, the dresses, the way she guided me through our shoot and the beautiful pictures she took, and the mesmerizing prints she worked on all have added considerably to my experience. I highly recommend this business to all ladies out there. Thank you, Zeynep.

Devrim Kadirbeyoglu

Super happy with my 50 years fotos

Shoot, I have been coming here for 6 years she did two maternity photos and newborn photos for me. I don’t mind driving from LA for the photo session. Very professional and studio has great ambience.

Carmen Herrera

Her pictures are Magic! Z has photographed me for years. She always gets the perfect shot, make me feel beautiful and does it with a smile on her face. A kind soul that really shows in her pictures! If you are looking to be photographed then look no more! She is the one!

Shiva D

It was an exceptional boudoir session with Zeynep.I had a great time in her studio space, accessories and her professional approach was mesmerizing.Thank you Zeynep for the experience.

Beliz Iristay

We had maternity photos and newborn/family photos done by Z. They came out beautiful. We highly recommend Z.

Daniel Williams

I had a choice of about 4 photographers for my maternity studio shoot and decided on Zeynep. It was the best decision and I loved working with her! From the beginning, Zeynep went the extra mile to first of all get to know me and what my vision is for the photos. I also appreciated that she organised hair and makeup and that it’s also complimentary, taking place in her lovely studio which was fun and part of the whole experience (rather than getting it done at home). She clearly loves her work and I felt comfortable shooting with her from the very beginning (very important for a naked maternity shoot, the chemistry has to work). Zeynep was well prepared for the shoot and had all the poses and gown planned out that we wanted to use so we could work as efficiently as possible. My husband also joined for a couple of shots and that was uncomplicated and didn’t take much of his time. Zeynep presented the final product to me with a quick turnaround and the outcome is stunning and just was I had envisaged! Her work is beautiful. I highly recommend working with her and hope you’ll enjoy the experience as much as I did. I’ll treasure these photos for ever.

Lorraine Huber

I’m so happy we met and I’m so satisfied with the results. Pictures and videos are just amazing. Thank you, Zeynep, for your beautiful view of me, your creativity and whole work. I can’t choose my favorite pic, they all fantastic. I could recommend to everyone and I’m sure you’ll grateful and wanna back again and again…so am I

Katerina Ivchenko

Absolutely amazing photographer! So easy to work with and stunning results. We will definitely work with her again in the near future!

Evan Siebuhr

I have worked with Zeynep on many occasions, my bridal shower party, my portraits over the years with my husband etc. She is such a joy to work with. I am generally not that great at posing, not knowing what to do with my hands etc is such a hassle for me. But Zeynep knows her job so well, each time I pose for her, she turns it into a very enjoyable experience with amazingly good shots! I almost want to pose for her whenever I feel down because she always captures the best version of you which makes you feel so good about yourself! Her package also includes hair and make up, therefore makes it so easy. She gives all the details in advance so you are clear what to bring with you to the studio or not. The other good thing about what she offers is the quality of her products. You can choose to have the prints in a very high quality gift box which makes it so special and a very thoughtful gift for your husband or groom. I will definitely continue going back to Zeynep for years to come for the best photo shoot versions of myself!

Idil Tribble

We absolutely loved working with Zeynep. When we saw her portfolio, we were impressed with her work and loved the unique detailed shots. She was very flexible, working around our schedule for the shoot date. It is not easy for me to act naturally while taken photos but she made us feeling comfortable and relaxed. She was very patient and knows how to make you feel at home. She was able to give great directions when needed and shot all the best simple moments where we shined! When we received the full portfolio – all in color and in black and white, we were blown away. We’ve already recommended her to our friends . Would definitely recommend to everyone! Thank you Zeynep.

Melike Bell

I love working with Z! We’ve done 2 shoots, both were so creative and fun. The pictures turned out absolutely stunning. She has an amazing eye for capturing her subjects. I look forward to work with her again in the future!

Amber Mac

We had the best experience with Zeynep for pre-wedding photos – she was professional, personable, and had a plan for our sessions. Her studio is adorable, with excellent natural light. We’re delighted with the final prints! I’m definitely going back soon for a boudoir shoot 🙂

Lauren Chen

This lovely lady belongs in front of the camera as much as she does behind it!

Her relaxed and creative demeanor makes it easy to be comfortable on and off the camera. There is an obvious passion for what she does.

Image turn around is extremely fast! The quality is absolutely stunning!

The studio is comfortable and she has props and wardrobe to compliment yours.

Looking forward to shooting with her again soon!

Cleo Doran

I had a boudoir session with Zeynep and couldn’t be happier with how my images turned out. She made me feel so comfortable in-front of the camera. And the keepsake print box she delivered is priceless.

Ness Aral

I had the pleasure of working with the lovely Zeynup over the last 3 years. Her work is incredible she captured me in ways I never thought possible or even saw myself! She was timely with getting us the photos and everything she promised exceeded our expectations. It was an all around awesome experience. If you have a chance to work with “Portraits by Z” please do it you will be beyond happy! And you will feel like a million bucks she makes you look like it! Thank you again great luck in your new biz I am watching you…

Maura McCormick

She made some amazing memories for us through her beautiful photography.

Jane K. Snow

Zeynep is one of those rare artists you find today who are tied to their craft and incredibly passionate about it. I was lucky to find her when I did because one day, she will be booked so far out that it will be impossible to get on her calendar. Beyonce’s maternity shoot is nothing compared to Zeynep’s shoots with a number of average women – she makes us all look beautiful and does minimal photoshop on the actual person itself. Her focus is on tapping into your inner beauty and getting her camera to capture that. I was blown away by her enthusiasm and patience. She spent several hours patiently trying different outfits that I had brought with me, and wasn’t the type of person who kept checking her phone for time. As I said, this shows passion to her craft. This is unusual in today’s world, and I really appreciate her commitment. She made me comfortable through all my shots, and worked with me and my husband after the shoot to make sure we were absolutely satisfied with the images we were ordering. At the end of the day, I felt like I not only obtained some fantastic images that me and my family will cherish for life, but also a lifelong friendship with a humble person like Zeynep.

Pooja Iyer

I have followed Plus One Photography for a while and admired her work… when I found out I was pregnant I knew right away who I wanted to do my maternity shoot… Plus One Photography… I had a fabulous experience, I felt comfortable, and confident through out my whole maternity shoot. I would highly recommend Plus One Photography to expecting families.

Melinda Sarwacinski

I had my first maternity photo shoot with Zeynep when I was 7months pregnant with my first baby. I was initially drawn to her work- the dreamy and magical feel of her photos and the session didn’t disappoint! For the session, it was in her studio and then at the outdoor location of my choice; the beach. Her eye for art and creativity was very evident. I felt 100% comfortable during the shoot and she even helps you pose and makes sure that you look your best! Upon receiving the photos, I was absolutely blown away at how magical and beautiful they were. She captured a delicate, special, and heartfelt moment in my life that I won’t soon forget. If you’re looking for your moment to transcend time and art, look no further.

Anniekim Stewart

We absolutely LOVE Plus One Photography!!! We have been repeat happy clients, because the quality is like none other. Initially, we did our maternity photo session because I fell in-love with the gallery, and wanted to recreate those same dreamy (sexy/magical) images. Zeynep was so patient with helping me with wardrobe changes, getting us to pose just right, and capturing the right timing/lighting. We got sooo many compliments, that I decided to get newborn photos (which are adorable & whimsical). A year later, we wanted one year/family photos to place on the adjacent wall in our livingroom. Zeynep did so well with my daughter, and was somehow was able to manage capturing the sweetest moments (despite her being fussy that day). These pictures I’m posting don’t give justice to the quality of the photos. These are wonderful family heirlooms now, and to cherish forever! HIGHLY RECOMMEND Plus One Photography- best investment ever!

Harold Rose

First of all, she’s an amazing person! She is very kind and considerate. Her talent is SUPERB! Before we decided to book her, we meet her in person and she explained everything we need to know. She was honest and and very professional. Transaction was smooth. We just had our photos with the album and I was blown away! The quality of the product is EXCELLENT! We are very impressed and 101% satisfied. Pictures were amazing despite of the weather at the time of the shooting, she manage to make it beautiful. If there are more star to give her i will! One of the best experience I had ! I definitely recommend her.

Jocielene Carpena

I have worked with Zeynep on several occasions for obvious reasons. I absolutely love the creativity and quality of her photos. Every time we worked together she was more than accommodating and willing to hear any ideas I had as well. I always put my trust in the fact that my pictures would be one of a kind and she never disappointed!

Tabitha Powell

It was such a pleasure to work with Zeynep! She is very professional and really cares about the quality of her work. Thank you for the memorable and beautiful pics!

Na J

Zeynep is the best photographer my family have ever met. Not only her photograph skills but also her interaction with clients are remarkable. She made us feel comfortable during the session. Her work perfectly captured all our wonderful memory in San Diego. I put her work most favorite place in my room and everybody can see it and talk about it. My family always talk that we hope to have a session with her again in the future.

Yohei Yamaguchi

I enjoyed my session with Zeynep. She is a fantastic photographer and I am glad that I found her.

Joy Nesem Mergen
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This is where your journey in maternity & boudoir photography starts

Take the time to complete the form and set up a free consultation with Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography where you’ll familiarize yourself with our process. Also, feel completely free to share your wishes, expectations, and desires and we’ll ensure to fulfill your vision to its fullest potential.

FAQ

Why should I have a boudoir photo shoot? 

You don’t need a specific reason to treat yourself to a professional boudoir photography session in San Diego. As women, we undergo many life changes, be it marriages, having kids, or divorces, and through it all, we can sometimes lose ourselves and our own identities. A boudoir photo session and the beautiful images resulting from it can be an immensely empowering experience, allowing you to treat yourself to a celebration of everything that you are.

You may want to get your amazing shots taken to surprise your significant other for an anniversary, birthday, or Valentine’s Day. Many women also book a bridal boudoir shoot. Finally, you can just do it for yourself, have a luxury experience and a well-deserved me-time, and remind yourself of your beauty and sensuality.

Remember, these sessions are all about You and our San Diego maternity photographer does an amazing job of capturing the very essence of your being.

What should I wear for a boudoir-style photography session? 

You have different outfit options depending on what you like and the reasons behind having a boudoir photo session.

Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography includes wardrobe access in our indoor and outdoor sessions, so you may take your pick from stunning lingerie pieces, corsets, fabrics, and props to make that perfect shot possible and your photos truly special.

What if I don’t know how to pose? 

You don’t have to be a professional model to have a boudoir or maternity photo shoot.

You’ll have the leading boudoir and maternity photographer in San Diego County guiding you through the session, suggesting poses, and helping you find the most flattering angles that showcase your unique beauty.

What type of maternity photo shoots do you offer? 

There are so many styles you can go for in your maternity shoot that enable you to immortalize these precious moments.

You can have a fine art nude or semi-nude photo shoot depending on what you’re comfortable with. Also, take a look at our portfolio to get some inspiration, as we did many shoots in various locations throughout San Diego, including underwater, beach, park, and studio. Don’t hesitate to book a free consultation and ask our amazing maternity photographer for suggestions.

When can I expect to get my maternity photos? 

If you live in San Diego or in Southern California, you can expect to get your professional maternity pictures within 2 to 3 weeks.

We’ll call you for viewing either in person or via Zoom so that you can take a look at your photos. You can also pick your favorites and have us design wall art for you.

How can I prepare for my maternity or boudoir shoot? 

Our team from San Diego will take care of your makeup, hair, and wardrobe choices, so all you have to do before the session is relax.

Make sure you get enough sleep and drink plenty of water to feel and look your best on shoot day. Don’t worry about preparing poses as our award winning photographer knows exactly what to do and will guide you every step of the way.

How should I choose the best boudoir or maternity photographer for myself? 

It can be difficult to find a reliable San Diego maternity or boudoir photographer as you want to feel comfortable during such an intimate experience and get the most beautiful photos possible.

What you want to look for is:

  • Positive reviews and testimonials of offered photography services;
  • A portfolio of previous physical and or digital images so you know what to expect;
  • A locally owned studio, so you won’t have to travel far in your delicate condition;
  • Consultations with San Diego photographer to get answers to your questions and plan your shoot.

Are maternity photo shoots worth it? 

Absolutely! Having timeless images taken is a wonderful way to celebrate and capture the beauty of pregnancy, as well as the aura of joy that surrounds it!

Here are just several reasons why they are worth considering:

  • Timeless memories: Pregnancy is a unique and transformative journey in a woman’s life. San Diego maternity photography pros do allow you to document these special moments and create lasting memories that you can look back on with fondness for years to come.
  • Embrace body positivity: Pregnancy brings about changes in a woman’s body, and having photos taken by a professional photographer provides an opportunity to embrace and celebrate those changes. They can help you feel confident, beautiful, and empowered during this amazing phase of life.
  • Bonding experience: Photo session can involve your partner or family members, making it a memorable bonding experience. It allows you to capture images of the love, joy, and anticipation shared with your loved ones as you await the arrival of your little one.
  • Professional quality: Hiring one of the finest experts in maternity photography San Diego can offer ensures that you receive top-quality photographs that truly capture the essence of You. Professionals have the expertise to pose, light, and frame the shots in a way that highlights your beauty and the unique aspects of your pregnancy.
  • Creative expression: Maternity sessions provide an artistic outlet to express your personal style and preferences. You can choose different settings and San Diego locales, artificial or natural light, an array of outfits, and props to create a visually stunning and meaningful collection of photographs.

Ultimately, San Diego maternity shoots offer a chance to celebrate and honor the incredible journey that is pregnancy. They allow you to capture the beauty, joy, and love surrounding this special time in your life.

How many weeks pregnant is best for maternity photos? 

The ideal timing for a maternity photoshoot is typically between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.

During this period, your belly is usually round and prominent, and you’re still relatively comfortable before the final weeks of pregnancy. However, it’s important to note that every woman’s body and pregnancy are unique, so you should discuss with your photographer in San Diego to find the optimal timing for your specific situation, based on your personal preferences and circumstances.

How long should a maternity photoshoot be? 

The duration of a maternity photoshoot can vary depending on various factors, including the location in San Diego, the number of outfit changes, and the specific shots you want to capture.

On average, a maternity session typically lasts around one to two hours. This timeframe allows for a variety of poses, settings, and wardrobe changes while ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the session.

It’s essential to communicate with your San Diego photographer beforehand to discuss your vision, preferences, and any time constraints you may have. They can help plan the duration accordingly to ensure a successful and enjoyable photoshoot that captures the very essence of your beauty during this amazing period of your life.

Can I take my own maternity photos? 

While it is technically possible to take your own maternity pictures, hiring a professional maternity photographer in San Diego offers numerous advantages that can greatly enhance the quality and overall experience, the most important being:

  • Expertise & experience: Professional maternity photographers specialize in capturing the beauty and essence of pregnancy. They have the technical skills, knowledge of lighting, composition, and posing techniques to create stunning images that bring out the best in you and your surroundings, resulting in high-quality photos that you may not be able to achieve on your own.
  • Artistic Vision: A creative eye and unique perspective enable pros to suggest memorable San Diego locations, props, and poses that complement your vision and create a cohesive and visually appealing collection of images. Their ability to capture emotion and connection in the photographs can add an extra layer of depth and meaning to your maternity memories.
  • Professional Equipment: Photography specialists use high-quality camera gear, lenses, and lighting equipment to produce professional-grade images. Their equipment allows them to capture sharp, detailed, and well-exposed photos in various lighting conditions.
  • Posing Guidance: One of the main challenges is posing. Pros have experience in guiding you to pose in flattering ways that highlight your baby bump and create a visually pleasing composition. Plus, they can offer suggestions and direct you throughout the shoot, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
  • Time and Convenience: Planning and executing a photo shoot can be incredibly time-consuming and demanding. However, reputable studios in San Diego take all of the logistics upon themselves, including location scouting, scheduling, and any necessary permits, leaving you free to enjoy the experience and be fully present during the shoot.

Who should I hire for maternity or boudoir photography in the San Diego area? 

Portraits by Z | San Diego Boudoir & Maternity Photography ticks all the boxes! Whether you want to commemorate your pregnancy, surprise your significant other, pamper yourself, or want a timeless decoration for your home, you can rely on our expertise.

Zeynep, our seasoned maternity and boudoir photographer, is at your disposal. Feel free to ask questions, get suggestions, and say what you want from the shoot, and we’ll be happy to meet and exceed your expectations.

Give us a call today and book your online or in-person consultation in La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, and across the San Diego area!

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