When to Take Maternity Photos: The Complete Guide to Planning Your Maternity Session
Pregnancy is one of the most emotional, transformative seasons of your life.
For some families, it’s a long-awaited celebration after months or years of hoping. For others, it might feel like you’ve been pregnant forever and you’re officially counting down the days until you can see your feet again.
But here’s the truth I’ve learned as both a mom and a photographer:
Pregnancy passes faster than you think.
One day you’re exhausted, uncomfortable, and ready to be done — and the next, you’re looking back and missing it in a way only mothers truly understand.
I don’t have professional maternity photos from my own pregnancies, and it’s something I genuinely regret. That experience is exactly why I offer maternity sessions today — so you have timeless, beautiful images documenting the beginning of your baby’s story.
Because this season deserves to be remembered, not rushed past.
When Should You Book Maternity Photos? (Best Timing for Pregnancy Pictures)
One of the most common questions I get is:
“When is the best time to take maternity photos?”
The ideal window for maternity photography is between 27–36 weeks of pregnancy.
Here’s why this timeframe works best:
Your baby bump is beautifully round and noticeable
You’re usually still comfortable enough to move and pose easily
Energy levels tend to be higher than late third trimester
You avoid the risk of baby arriving before your session
Waiting too close to your due date can be risky — babies love to arrive on their own schedule. Booking earlier ensures you don’t accidentally miss documenting this stage altogether.
Pro tip: Most clients reserve their maternity session during the second trimester to guarantee availability.
What to Wear for Your Maternity Session
Choosing outfits is often the biggest source of stress — but it doesn’t have to be.
I’ve created a complete guide that walks you through everything from flattering dress styles to color palettes that photograph beautifully in studio lighting.
Read the full guide here: What to Wear to Your Studio Maternity Session
And of course, I’m always happy to help you plan outfits so you feel confident and comfortable.
Who Should Be Included in Maternity Photos?
Yes — maternity sessions are about celebrating you.
But they’re also about documenting your family before everything changes.
I encourage clients to include:
Your partner or spouse
Older siblings
Anyone who is part of your growing family story
These images become incredibly meaningful later. They capture the anticipation, connection, and excitement before you officially become parents (or parents again).
Many couples tell me afterward that their maternity session felt less like a photoshoot and more like a meaningful pause together before life becomes beautifully busy.
Why Maternity Photos Are Worth It
You may not feel glamorous every day during pregnancy.
You might feel tired. Swollen. Emotional. Completely over it.
But years from now, your child will see these photographs and realize:
That’s where my story began.
Maternity photos freeze a brief moment — the waiting, the hope, the quiet excitement before you finally meet the baby you already love so much.
And someday, you’ll be grateful you stepped in front of the camera.
When you schedule a maternity AND newborn session with me, I offer a special discounted price at the time of booking. You can read more about what I offer on my pricing page. I’m also happy to answer any questions you might have!