Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey that transforms not only your body but also your heart and soul. While the nine months may feel long at times, they pass by in the blink of an eye. The kicks, the baby hiccups, the way your body adapts to nurture new life are moments that are fleeting, which is why maternity photography is so special.
By capturing this chapter of your life, you are giving yourself a gift that will allow you to look back on this beautiful season of life with awe, gratitude, and love. But if you’ve found yourself wondering, “When is the best time to take maternity photos?”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I hear from expecting mothers in Baltimore. In this guide, I’ll help you determine the ideal timeframe for your maternity session and how to plan ahead.
When Should You Schedule Your Maternity Session?
The best time to schedule your maternity session is as soon as you know your due date. Maternity photography slots fill up quickly, and securing your session early guarantees availability and flexibility.
The Best Time is When YOU Feel Your Best
For most pregnancies, the ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is between 28 and 34 weeks. This is typically during the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy, when your baby bump is beautifully rounded, but you still feel comfortable and mobile. However, every pregnancy is different, and it’s important to consider your unique experience when planning your session.
When Should First-Time Moms Book Their Maternity Session?
If this is your first pregnancy, you may not “pop” until later in your third trimester. Many first-time moms notice that their baby bump becomes more pronounced around 30 to 34 weeks, making this the perfect time to schedule a session. This allows us to capture the fullness of your belly while ensuring you still feel at ease.
Have You Been Pregnant Before? Here’s What to Consider
If you have been pregnant before, your body may adjust more quickly, and your bump may become visible earlier. In this case, I recommend booking your maternity session as early as 28 weeks to capture the most flattering stage of your pregnancy before the final weeks bring added discomfort.
What If You’re Expecting Multiples or Have a High-Risk Pregnancy?
For those carrying twins or multiples or who have a high-risk pregnancy, I suggest scheduling your session between 24 and 30 weeks. Carrying multiples often means a larger belly earlier on, and by the later weeks, physical discomfort may increase. Scheduling your maternity shoot earlier guarantees you feel your best and can fully enjoy the experience.
Can You Wait Until 36 Weeks for Maternity Photos?
Some moms-to-be worry about waiting too long. While it’s possible to schedule maternity sessions up until 36 weeks, I don’t recommend waiting that late. Your comfort is essential, and we want to make sure you feel relaxed, confident, and able to enjoy your photoshoot without any added stress.
Why 28-34 Weeks is the Sweet Spot for Maternity Photos
1. Your Baby Bump is Fully Defined
By the third trimester, your belly has that gorgeous, well-rounded shape that looks incredible in photos. Earlier in pregnancy, your bump may not be as pronounced, and waiting too long could mean you’re feeling more fatigued.
2. You’ll Feel Comfortable & Confident
During this timeframe, most women still have good energy levels and can move comfortably. By the last few weeks of pregnancy, simple movements like standing for long periods or getting up and down may feel more challenging.
3. More Flexibility for Rescheduling
Pregnancy can be unpredictable, and so can the weather! Booking between 28-34 weeks gives us flexibility in case we need to adjust for weather conditions, illness, or any unexpected pregnancy-related discomforts.
When to Book Your Maternity Session
Maternity sessions are in high demand, and I recommend booking as soon as you reach your second trimester. Ideally, you should secure your date by your 12th or 16th week to ensure availability.
Here’s a general timeline for when to book based on your pregnancy stage:
First Trimester (0-12 Weeks): Research photographers and book your session.
Second Trimester (13-27 Weeks): Finalize session details and choose your location/style.
Third Trimester (28-36 Weeks): Your maternity photoshoot takes place!
If you’re past 34 weeks and still want a session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I do my best to accommodate last-minute bookings when possible.
Let’s Capture This Special Time Together!
Pregnancy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and maternity photography allows you to celebrate it in a meaningful way. Whether this is your first baby or your last, your journey is unique and deserves to be beautifully captured.
I’m here to make your maternity session a memorable, comfortable, and empowering experience.
If you’re expecting and thinking about booking a maternity session, don’t wait! Reach out today, and let’s create something truly special together.
Comments