When’s the Best Time to Book Your Maternity Photos?
Ah, pregnancy—the magical time when your body becomes a superhero, growing a whole new human being. It's incredible, exhausting, and let’s be honest, sometimes a little uncomfortable (hello, swollen feet). But it’s also a fleeting chapter worth capturing, which is why maternity photos are such a wonderful way to document this special time. So, when is the best time to schedule your maternity session? Let’s dive into the baby-bump timeline, with a sprinkle of fun and some real talk.
The Golden Window - 30-36 Weeks
Most photographers agree that the sweet spot for maternity photos is between 30 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. By this time, your baby bump has a beautiful, round shape that just screams “pregnancy glow” (even if it’s really just sweat from trying to get your shoes on). You’re far enough along that your bump is unmistakable, but not so far that you’re praying for someone to wheel you to the shoot. It's a balance—bump + comfort = perfect timing.
What About Twins or Multiples?
If you’re carrying twins (or more!), you might want to bump up (pun intended) your session to 24-30 weeks.
Why? Because your bump tends to show up to the party a little earlier, and by the third trimester, you might be feeling more like “Netflix and naps” than “let’s do a photoshoot.” And hey, that’s totally okay—multiple babies deserve multiple breaks!
High-Risk Pregnancies or Unique Circumstances
If you have a high-risk pregnancy or other unique circumstances, it’s best to chat with your doctor and photographer early. Safety always comes first, and your photographer can help plan a session that works for your comfort and timeline.
Book Early—Like, Second Trimester Early
Photographers’ calendars fill up fast, especially for maternity sessions (those golden-hour slots don’t book themselves). It’s a good idea to book your session during your second trimester to lock in your date and give yourself plenty of time to plan outfits, location, and, of course, perfecting your “smiling while glowing” face.
Why Maternity Photos Are Worth It
Let’s be real, pregnancy isn’t always glamorous. There are days when you feel more like a waddling penguin or shamoo the whale than a glowing goddess. But maternity photos? They freeze the magic in time. They remind you of the journey, the strength of your body, and the excitement of waiting to meet your baby. Plus, one day, when your kid is a teenager rolling their eyes at you, you can show them those photos and say, “See? You were worth it.”
A Few Quick Tips for the Perfect Shoot
Comfort is key - Pick outfits that flatter your bump but still let you breathe (trust us, this isn’t the time to squeeze into something tight).
Timing is everything - Avoid scheduling your shoot too late—you’ll thank yourself when you’re not waddling through the park at 38 weeks.
Make it fun - Bring your partner, older kids, or even the family dog to make the session more personal. Bonus points if your dog behaves better than your toddler.
The best time to book your maternity photos is early, and the best time to schedule your session is when your bump is beautifully round but you’re still feeling (somewhat) like yourself. So, mark that calendar, reach out to your photographer, and get ready to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
And remember—pregnancy is a wild, wonderful ride. Maternity photos are your chance to hit the pause button, celebrate your journey, and look absolutely fabulous doing it. You’ve got this, Momma!