The Best Time To Get Maternity Photos Done

A question I get all the time from clients is when should they get their maternity photos taken. The simple answer is somewhere between 28-36 weeks or during your 7th - 8th month mark. However, everyones pregnancy is different so the info below will help you to understand more about when to book your maternity photoshoot for.

Why between 28 and 36 weeks?

At this point, your bump is prominent. So in maternity photographs, it will be clear you're pregnant. It is also before you reach that last leg of your third trimester. Usually you’ll want to avoid doing your maternity session at full term for 2 reasons:

It’s likely you will be a bit uncomfortable and tired in those last few weeks.
You could go into labour at any point and whilst that doesn't mean it’ll come on mid-photoshoot… if you do go into labour a day or two before, then the opportunity for maternity photos is gone.

As a maternity photographer, I can assure you both of those points above are important. You want to feel comfortable and be able to enjoy the session. As you near the end of your pregnancy, some poses might be harder and uncomfortable. We want to ensure ultimate comfort and mobility to get a fully and varied gallery for you. The second point is obvious! You don’t want to miss this opportunity just because of a time frame issue.

If You’re Pregnant with Twins OR Multiples

Another factor to consider is how many babies are growing in that belly of yours. Full term for twins and multiples is earlier than pregnancies with just one baby so when you're expecting multiples, the time frame will need to be adjusted slightly. It’s likely that your bump will be more prominent earlier and in tern you’ll be less comfortable. As an idea, for expectant mums with twins, I usually suggest around the 24-30 week mark. However, it will really depend on you and how you’re feeling in your pregnancy.

High-risk Pregnancies

Not every pregnancy is smooth sailing and therefore you may need to schedule your session slightly earlier. Though most high-risk pregnancies go smoothly, the second trimester is the best window to take maternity photos if you’re high-risk. Speak with your mid-wife or medical professional first if you want to take extra care.

When booking your maternity photographer, I recommend bringing up any medical related concerns. I always include an area for this in my pre-shoot questionnaire. It is really helpful for us to know, so we can keep the session as safe as possible.

If You’re Feeling Anxious

If you’re feeling anxious about your maternity photos for any reason, consider scheduling on the earlier side. This can be helpful for moms who are worried about delivering early, feel self-conscious about their changing body or being worried about the typical English weather and what it has in store. Being as comfortable and at ease as possible is key for maternity sessions. After all, when you’re growing a tiny human inside of you, it’s worth giving yourself a bit more wiggle room so you can relax, put trust in your photographer, and enjoy being present in the moment.

so When is the best time to Book Your Maternity Photographer

I recommend that my clients contact me after their 12 week scan, although some prefer to wait until their 20 week scan and that’s completely up to you. If you are expecting multiples, are feeling a little anxious in your pregnancy or are high risk, and would like a slightly earlier maternity photoshoot, it is key to book in sooner rather than later. Most photographers will try their best to accommodate late requests but this isn’t always possible.

If you have a particular photographer you’d love to work with I would reach out as soon as you feel comfortable and they can work with you to set the perfect date to capture that pregnancy glow and unforgettable excitement.

Lots of love,

Your Maternity Photographer, Natalie x