Guide to Planning Your Maternity Photography Session
Maternity sessions are often dream sessions. Not only do I get to document a very special time in a woman's life, but these types of sessions allow me to really explore my creativity. No two maternity sessions with me are the same, as I come into each one open and focused on capturing each beautiful mama-to-be as authentically and as true to who she is as possible.
When is the best time for maternity photos?
Whether you’ve landed here because you’re wondering when is too early for maternity photos or if you’re just looking for maternity photo ideas, the first step is figuring out when to take maternity photos during your pregnancy. Generally speaking, photographers recommend taking your maternity photos between 24 to 34 weeks.
The two main considerations to think about before deciding when to take maternity photos are: when you’ll have a visibly pregnant belly (if you want that to be a focus of the session) and your health (are you high-risk or likely to have doctor-ordered bedrest or deliver early?).
Timing Recommendations by Pregnancy Type
Often, these factors have to do with whether you’re a first time mom and how many babies you’re carrying. Here is a summary of the recommended timing:
| Pregnancy Type | Recommended Window |
|---|---|
| First time moms | 28-34 weeks |
| Moms of multiples or high-risk | 24-32 weeks |
| Second+ time moms | 26-34 weeks |
For first-time moms, photographers typically recommend taking maternity photos between 28-34 weeks. You’ll be able to wait long enough to have a visible bump for photos, and getting it done before 34 weeks you’ll hopefully ensure photos are done before you’re too uncomfortable to be on your feet for an hour. Moms who have been pregnant before often start to show earlier, so they can usually get maternity photos done a few weeks earlier than their first-time counterparts.
Understanding Early and Late Sessions
Anytime in the first trimester is probably too early to take maternity photos because you want your bump to actually show in your pregnancy portraits. If you aren’t particular about obvious-bump portraits and just want to document this time in your family, then anytime you feel well enough for photos would be fine. However, if you’re dreaming of images where you can clearly tell you’re pregnant, first time moms should schedule maternity photos at 28 weeks or later.
Is it ever too late for maternity pictures? The main thing it comes down to is your comfort level. Do you want to be on your feet taking photos for an hour at 39 weeks pregnant? While it isn’t too late for pregnancy portraits until your baby’s finally earthside, I’d plan ahead and get scheduled as soon as you know you’d like images to document your pregnancy.
Booking Your Maternity Photoshoot
Most maternity photographers book between one to six months out, but it varies. In general, reach out to your photographer after your 20 week scan. However, if you’re hoping to do your photos during the busy portrait season (typically August through late October), reach out to your photographer even sooner. This is especially true if you have a busy schedule yourself, or aren’t able to take time off of work for a weekday session.
The Experience of the Session
I was blown away by the vulnerability and ability to "just be" at our session. We felt so comfortable and natural with her around and she captured the most perfect moments. Late summer sunshine can illuminate a beautiful friend's soul and glitter over the lake's surface, creating an unforgettable experience and beautiful photos.