Pregnancy’s weird like that; some days drag on forever, but then somehow the months fly. One minute you’re counting little kicks… and the next, you’re folding onesies and stuffing a hospital bag.
One of the questions I get asked the most is:
“When is the best time for maternity photos?”
After doing this for years, both as a photographer and a mom of three, I’ve found there’s this window that just feels right. Not because everything’s perfect; because let’s be real, it rarely is. But it’s usually when you still feel like you, and there’s just something about this stretch of time that’s worth holding onto.
So how do you know when that is? Let’s talk it through.
The Ideal Time for Maternity Photoshoot
This might vary depending on who you’re working with, but for my clients, I usually recommend somewhere between 28 and 32 weeks.
Around then, your bump is usually visible; but you’re not deep into that third-trimester heaviness yet. The early stuff (nausea, exhaustion, all of it) has mostly passed, and you’ve still got a bit of energy to move around and enjoy the session, at least more than you will a few weeks later.
It’s not a hard rule or anything. But in my experience, that’s the window where you still feel like you; just with a baby bump front and center. And that’s exactly what we want to remember.
If This Isn’t Your First Pregnancy (Or You’re Expecting Multiples)
Here’s the thing: not every pregnancy follows the same timeline. And that’s especially true if this isn’t your first rodeo.
If you’ve done this before, chances are your bump showed up earlier this time. You might also feel like your energy dips faster (because… toddlers). In those cases, I usually recommend booking your maternity photos a little earlier, somewhere between 26 and 30 weeks tends to work really well.
And if you’re expecting twins or more? I’d definitely aim sooner, around 24 to 28 weeks, just so you’re not trying to stand and walk around for too long when your body’s already doing so much.
The most important thing is: Go with what feels right. Some mamas are ready early, and some want to wait it out. We’ll make it work either way.
What About The Seasons?
Since we actually get seasons here in Northern Virginia, the time of year can play a big role in how your maternity photos feel. The best time for pregnancy photo shoot might be when your bump is just right; and when your favorite kind of weather or scenery lines up. Here’s what each season tends to bring:
Spring
Everything starts to bloom, and the light is soft and dreamy. If you’re looking for something simple and sweet, spring minis work really well for maternity too. You don’t need a full session to capture the magic.
Summer
It’s warm, it’s golden, and the sunsets hit different. We usually stick to early mornings or just before sunset to try to beat the heat and get that gorgeous glow. And if you’re hoping for flowers, it’s still possible! A few spots here in Northern VA hold onto those summer blooms a little longer. But even if it’s just wide-open fields or all the green; trust me, it’ll still be beautiful.
If you’ve got little ones, though, just something to keep in mind: sunset runs later this time of year, so we may end up working around the heat a bit to avoid clashing with bedtime.
Fall
Cooler temps, golden light, and all the cozy vibes. It’s definitely one of the most popular times for photos and for good reason.
If you’re thinking about a full session, or even using a fall mini for your maternity photos, just know: our fall dates usually start booking up in early summer. It sneaks up fast.
Winter
Winter can be surprisingly beautiful: quiet, calm, and full of soft light. If indoor feels more your speed, studio or in-home sessions are perfect this time of year.
But if you’d rather be outside, that works too. As long as you’re bundled up, outdoor sessions can still be absolutely stunning (and honestly, sometimes that crisp winter air just adds to the magic).
It doesn’t matter what the season is; we’ll plan around you. However you’re feeling, whatever you’re juggling… we’ll make it work. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Let’s Hold Onto This Season
This chapter goes quick. One day you’re just figuring things out… and before you know it, you’re washing baby clothes and making room for all the tiny things.
If you’re between 24 and 34 weeks, it’s a good time to start thinking about photos. Not in a stressful way; just figuring out what feels right. Maybe it’s a full session. Maybe it’s one of the fall or spring minis.
And if you happen to be in Northern Virginia and still looking for a maternity photographer, I’m here. No pressure at all. But if it feels like the right fit, we’ll keep things easy and make something really special out of this season.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:
Why Professional Maternity Photos Are Important?
What Makes A Photographer Family-Friendly?
Chilly Garden Maternity Photos
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‘Til next time,
Belle
