As a photographer specializing in capturing the beauty of pregnancy, I’m often asked by expectant mothers: "When is the best time to take maternity photos?" While the answer may seem straightforward — usually between 28-35 weeks of pregnancy — there’s much more to consider when choosing the perfect moment for your maternity shoot. Every pregnancy is unique, and various factors can influence the timing of your session. Here’s a deeper look into when to schedule your maternity photos to ensure you get the stunning, memorable images you're dreaming of.
The 28-35 Week Window
Generally, the best time to book your maternity photo session is between 28 and 35 weeks of pregnancy. This timeframe strikes a perfect balance between showing off your beautiful baby bump and avoiding any discomfort. Here’s why: Baby Bump is Well-Defined: Around 28-35 weeks, your baby bump is usually prominent, showing off that gorgeous pregnancy glow. The bump is round and visible but not too large, which creates a lovely, flattering silhouette for your photos. Comfort Level: By this point, most women are still comfortable enough to move around and pose for the shoot. As the pregnancy progresses past the 36-week mark, some women begin to feel more physically uncomfortable or fatigued, which can impact their ability to fully enjoy the session. That said, there are always exceptions, and the key is to capture you at a time when you feel your best and are still enjoying the process!
How Do You Feel?
It’s important to listen to your body and take your personal comfort into consideration. For some women, 30-32 weeks may feel like the right time—when they have the most energy and feel their best. For others, they may prefer to wait a bit longer, aiming for the later part of their pregnancy to ensure they have that full, round belly in the photos. The best maternity photos will reflect your confidence and joy, so choosing a time when you feel good—physically and emotionally—is crucial. If you’re feeling bloated, tired, or have other pregnancy-related discomforts, it might be worth considering a session earlier in the window, before those symptoms intensify.
Twins or Multiple Babies?
If you’re expecting multiples, you might find that your bump grows much earlier than it would in a singleton pregnancy. Many mothers expecting twins or triplets find that they are ready to capture their maternity photos closer to 28-32 weeks. At this point, your bump will be more prominent, and you'll have that wonderful glow—plus, your body may start to feel the physical demands of carrying multiples sooner, making it wise to schedule your session earlier in your pregnancy.
Schedule Early, Plan Ahead
It’s essential to book your maternity session early—usually around the second trimester—to ensure availability. Pregnancy can be unpredictable, and you want to give yourself time to plan and prepare for the shoot. This allows you to choose the best time based on your comfort, lifestyle, and any potential complications. It's also important to note that some photographers, especially those who specialize in maternity and newborn photography, book up quickly. Scheduling early means you won’t feel rushed or stressed as your due date approaches.
Don’t Forget About Your Newborn Photos
When planning your maternity session, keep in mind that you might also want to consider scheduling your newborn session in advance. Many photographers offer packages that allow you to capture both the pregnancy and newborn stages, providing a beautiful way to document this life-changing journey. If you’re planning to capture both milestones with the same photographer, coordinating the timing between your maternity and newborn photos can create a seamless experience, and allow you to schedule both sessions with ample time to enjoy them.
The Right Time is When You Feel Your Best
Ultimately, the best time for maternity photos is when you feel the most beautiful, confident, and comfortable. While the 28-35 week window is generally ideal, every pregnancy is different. The perfect time for your session is one that fits your body’s rhythm, your emotions, and your style. Trust yourself and your photographer to help capture this unforgettable moment in a way that reflects your journey and the excitement of the new life you’re bringing into the world. If you’re still unsure about the best time for your maternity shoot, I’m happy to guide you through the process and help you select a day that will result in stunning, memorable images. Your pregnancy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the right timing will allow you to celebrate this chapter in the most beautiful way possible..