If you’re wondering when to schedule your maternity session, you’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions I get from expectant moms, and it’s a great one. After all, you want to capture your pregnancy at just the right time—when your belly is beautifully round, but you’re still feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about timing your maternity session, from when to book your photographer to the best time of day for gorgeous, glowing photos.

When to Book a Maternity Photographer?

Before we talk about the best time to take your maternity photos, let’s back up a step—when to schedule your maternity session with your photographer?

• It’s never too early! Most photographers book up months in advance, and maternity sessions are no exception.
• If you have a specific season, location, or date in mind, securing your session early ensures availability.
• Many photographers (including myself) only take on a limited number of sessions per month to provide the best experience for each client.

To be safe, I recommend booking your maternity session in the second trimester, around 18–22 weeks, to make sure you get a spot on the calendar.

When to Schedule Your Maternity Session

The ideal time for maternity photos is typically between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s why:

✔ Your baby bump is beautifully round and visible.

✔ You’re still comfortable enough to move and pose.

✔ It’s early enough to plan ahead in case of an early delivery.

Special Considerations

• Expecting twins or multiples? Consider scheduling your session earlier, around 26–30 weeks, since you may deliver early or feel less comfortable later in pregnancy.
• High-risk pregnancy or possible bed rest? If you anticipate complications, it’s always best to book on the earlier side so you don’t miss out on capturing this special time. When to schedule your maternity session can become more complicated with these special circumstances, so early planning is key.

Consider Your Family’s Schedule

When to schedule your maternity session should also consider the schedules of all family members who will be included.

• Work Schedules: If your partner has time off coming up (or if they’re about to get busier at work), schedule your session when they’re available.
• Sibling Schedules: If you’re including older siblings, plan around their nap times, bedtimes, or school schedules to keep the session relaxed.
• Comfort & Energy Levels: Every pregnancy is different—if you’re feeling great early on, there’s no harm in scheduling a bit sooner!

Flexibility & Backup Plans for Maternity Photoshoots

Life happens, and I want your session to be stress-free and enjoyable! Here’s how I handle common scheduling concerns:

 Bad Weather? If your outdoor session gets rained out, we’ll simply reschedule.

 Feeling Unwell? If you’re not feeling your best, let’s find a new date that works for you.

 Last-Minute Changes? I always build in a little flexibility to ensure you have the best experience possible.

When you book with me, we’ll go over all of this ahead of time so you feel confident and prepared no matter what comes up.

How Long Does a Maternity Session Take?

Maternity sessions typically take about an hour to an hour and a half.

• Love taking your time? We’ll make sure to capture a variety of poses and settings so you have plenty of images to choose from.
• Prefer a quick and simple session? I know how to work efficiently so you’re not on your feet too long.

Either way, my goal is to make your session feel effortless, fun, and relaxed!

Best Time of Day for Maternity Portraits

The time of day can make a huge difference in how your photos look. Here’s what to consider when scheduling:

Outdoor Maternity Sessions

• Golden Hour (sunrise or sunset) – This is the most flattering time of day, with soft, dreamy light that creates a warm glow.
• Midday sessions can be tricky – Harsh light and shadows can be difficult to work with, but I can always help find a shaded area if needed.

Studio Maternity Sessions

• More flexible timing! Since I control the lighting in the studio, we can shoot at any time of day.
• No weather worries. If you prefer a cozy indoor setting, studio sessions provide a great option year-round.

Considering Nap & Meal Times

• If you’re including toddlers or young kids, it’s best to plan around their nap and meal schedules to keep everyone happy and engaged.

The best time to schedule your maternity session is between 28 and 34 weeks, but ultimately, the right time is whenever you feel your best! Booking early ensures you have the perfect date and location, and I always build in flexibility so your experience is relaxed and enjoyable. When to schedule your maternity session is a question that requires consideration of many factors, and I’m here to help you navigate them all.

Ready to book your maternity session? Contact me today to secure your spot—I’d love to help you capture this incredible chapter of your life!

Looking for more tips? Check out this post on what to wear for your newborn session to help you plan the perfect look or checkout my Pinterest Board.