Pregnancy Announcement | Cottonwood Beach | Washougal, WA


Few moments in life are as exciting as announcing that you’re expecting a little one. Choosing the right location for your pregnancy announcement photos makes all the difference—and if you’re in the Portland or Vancouver area, Cottonwood Beach in Washougal, WA is one of the most beautiful places to capture this milestone.

Recently, I photographed a sweet couple celebrating their pregnancy announcement at Cottonwood Beach, and it was the perfect mix of joy, love, and natural beauty.


Why Cottonwood Beach is Perfect for Pregnancy Announcements

Nestled along the Columbia River, Cottonwood Beach is a hidden gem for photography sessions. It offers:

  • River views – The Columbia River creates a stunning, serene backdrop for timeless photos.
  • Sandy shores & driftwood – A relaxed, natural setting that feels both rustic and coastal.
  • Open skies – Perfect for golden hour, when the light reflects across the water for dreamy portraits.
  • Convenient location – Just minutes from downtown Washougal, and a short drive from Portland or Vancouver.

The beach’s wide-open feel makes it easy to focus on the connection between the couple while still incorporating the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.


The Session

For this pregnancy announcement shoot, we timed the session for golden hour when the sky was soft and glowing. The couple brought a letter board to share their exciting news, and we captured a mix of playful and emotional moments—walking barefoot along the shoreline, laughing together, and holding each other close with the river as their backdrop.

The joy and anticipation of welcoming a new baby made every photo feel extra special, and Cottonwood Beach gave us the perfect variety of scenery to highlight the moment.


Tips for Your Pregnancy Announcement Photos at Cottonwood Beach

Thinking about booking your own session here? A few tips to make the most of it:

  • Dress in neutrals or earth tones – These colors photograph beautifully against the sand, water, and sky.
  • Bring a prop – Ultrasound photos, baby shoes, or a letter board add a personal touch to your announcement.
  • Plan for comfort – The beach can get breezy, so bring layers to stay cozy between shots.



If you’re ready to plan your own session, I’d love to help capture this exciting chapter of your story. Reach out [here] to book your pregnancy announcement photos at Cottonwood Beach—or let’s explore another gorgeous location in Washington or Oregon together!