Capturing your pregnancy through maternity photography is a beautiful way to celebrate this special time in your life. Whether you do this solo, with your existing children or your partner, it's such a special way to honour the way your body is changing and the life that is growing within you.
Many people ask me, when is the best time to schedule a maternity session? You want to ensure your bump is beautifully visible while still feeling comfortable and mobile. Here are a few thoughts to help you consider the perfect timing for your maternity photos.
The Ideal Timeframe: 28-36 Weeks
For most Mums-to-be, the best time to schedule a maternity session is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s why:
Your Bump is Prominent – By the third trimester, your belly is beautifully round and well-defined, making for gorgeous photos. Plus you're well and truly past the "Is it a food baby? Or a baby baby?" stage.
You’re Still Comfortable – Before 36 weeks, you’re likely still feeling relatively comfortable and mobile. As the weeks progress, you may find swelling and fatigue set in, making movement and posing slightly more challenging.
Lower Risk of Early Delivery – While every pregnancy is different, some babies arrive earlier than expected. Scheduling your session before 36 weeks means you likely won’t miss the chance to capture this special time.
Considerations for Timing Your Maternity Session
Every pregnancy is unique, so consider these factors when deciding when to book your maternity session:
First Pregnancy vs. Subsequent Pregnancies – If this is your first pregnancy, your belly may take longer to “pop,” so you might want to wait until closer to 32-36 weeks. For second or later pregnancies, your bump may show earlier, making 28-32 weeks a great time for photos.
Multiples Pregnancy – If you’re expecting twins or more, your belly will likely be larger earlier. In this case, aim for 24-30 weeks to avoid discomfort in the later months.
Personal Comfort & Mobility – If you’re experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, significant swelling, or discomfort, you may want to schedule your session a bit earlier.
Seasonal & Location Considerations
Your preferred season and location can also impact the best timing for your session:
Outdoor Sessions – If you want beautiful golden-hour shots in nature, consider the season. If you’re pregnant during the Summer, you may want to schedule your session earlier in the day or a cooler month.
In-Home Sessions – If you prefer an indoor setting, timing is more flexible, and you don’t need to worry about weather conditions.
Destination Sessions – If you’re planning a babymoon or want photos in a special location, plan accordingly to align with your travel dates and physical comfort.
Maternity photography is a beautiful way to celebrate your journey to motherhood. The best time for your session ultimately depends on your unique pregnancy, comfort level, and vision for your photos. By planning ahead and choosing a time between 28 and 36 weeks, you’ll be able to enjoy the experience and capture stunning images of this incredible chapter in your life.
Are you ready to book your maternity session? Click here to get in touch today and let's plan your dream maternity shoot at a time that suits your body!
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