When is the Best Time for Maternity Photos?
This is the most often asked question by soon to be moms! Maternity pictures are a beautiful way to capture your pregnancy. But when is the best time to schedule them?
The short answer is typically during the third trimester, between 30 and 36 weeks. If this is your first pregnancy, you will want to book later in the window. Moms typically start showing earlier if they’ve already been pregnant before, so we recommend scheduling earlier in this case – around 24 to 28 weeks is ideal. This is when your beautiful baby bump will have nice round shape, and you’ll be able to capture this special moment comfortably.
Also keep in mind that not all pregnancies are the same and professional maternity photos can be taken at any time during your pregnancy. Make sure to read our helpful tips below!
When to take maternity photos if you’re expecting twins or triplets
If you’re having twins or triplets, we recommend scheduling your pregnancy photo session in the second trimester, around 22 to 26 weeks. This will ensure that you have enough time to get a good range of photos with your growing babies. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your appointment – schedule your maternity shoot early! Most photographers are book up several weeks in advance.
Is 25 weeks too soon for a maternity photo shoot?
25 weeks could be considered too soon for a maternity photo session because the changes in your body may not be as noticeable yet. Some mothers are sufficiently pregnant to have their maternity photographs done around 25 weeks while others are not.
Although it’s preferable to wait until your baby bump is more clearly defined, there are tricks you can use to help your belly stand out in pictures if you have to schedule your maternity photoshoot earlier.
A few reasons why some mothers choose to hold a maternity photo session earlier than 26 weeks
Most ladies like to get their photos done between 26 and 34 weeks into the pregnancy but not every mom-to-be is the same, and some choose to hold a maternity session earlier than 26 weeks.
Some reasons for this include wanting to document their pregnancy early on, feeling more comfortable in their own skin earlier on in the pregnancy, or simply because they want to get it done sooner! Other reasons some mothers opt for having their maternity photo sessions earlier than 26 weeks can include:
If you are carrying more than one!
Some mothers choose to get maternity photos done earlier if they are carrying more than one baby. Posing might get more uncomfortable if carring twins or triplets and waiting too long or booking the session close to the due date.
High risk pregnancies
Some mothers choose to get their maternity photo session done earlier if their pregnancy is high risk. If you are pregnant and are considered to be in a high-risk category, for example at risk of being on bed rest or delivering earlier, it is always best to consult with your doctor before scheduling any type of maternity photo session.
With their guidance and approval, you can proceed to book your photo shoot with a professional photographer.
You need pregnancy photos for announcements
Maternity photo sessions make a great way to announce your new arrival! They capture the joy and excitement of this special time in your life, making them the perfect way to share your news. Pregnancy photos can be used for social media posts, baby announcements, or even framed prints around the house.
You need maternity photos for the baby shower or wedding invitations
Some people might want to take maternity photos to put on the invitations they send out for their baby shower invitations. Showing off your beautiful growing baby bump in gorgeous photographs can be a great way to announce your pregnancy to friends and family.
Additionally, if the mother-to-be and her partner are getting married soon, they might want to get a few maternity photos taken for the wedding invitations.
Not every mom to be is the same!
No matter what photographers recommend, not every pregnant woman is the same when it comes to choosing when to get their maternity photos taken.
Every woman is different and her body changes differently due to hormones, lifestyle, activity level, and more. Some women may feel most comfortable taking their maternity photos early in their pregnancy, while others choose to wait until later when they are showing more.
Whatever the reason, there is no wrong time for maternity pictures – if you find that you feel more comfortable at a certain stage in your pregnancy, and the photographer is available earlier than 26 weeks, then go for it! Maternity photos can be taken at any stage of the pregnancy, so don’t feel pressured to wait until the last minute.
Is 36 weeks too late for a maternity shoot?
The best time to take maternity photos is usually between 32-36 weeks, when the baby has grown to a size that shows in the photo and before labor begins.
While most mothers wait until their third trimester to take their photos, some can argue 36 weeks is little close to your due date. This all depends on your comfort level! Keep in mind that the further along you will be, the more difficult it might be to pose.
What is the best time to book my maternity photographer?
Make sure to book maternity photos early! Most clients book 10-16 weeks before their desired photo shoot date. At our studio, we are booked 3 months in advance.
You will want to book maternity pictures at least 12 weeks early, especially if you are expecting multiples or have a high risk pregnancy. Booking early also makes it easy to discuss maternity photo ideas with your photographer and eliminate the stress of not having your photographer be available in your last trimester, before your baby arrives.
Oxana Alex is a an experienced maternity photographer, specialized in fine art and maternity photography sessions. Schedule your shoot at our Los Angeles photography studio today.
Here are a few tips for booking maternity photos:
- Book your maternity session in the third trimester, between 26 and 34 weeks.
- Schedule earlier if you are not expecting your first baby (24 to 28 weeks is ideal).
- If you are expecting twins or triplets, book your maternity session between 24-28 weeks.
- Taking maternity photos too early can make it harder to see the baby bump.
- Taking maternity photos to late can be uncomfortable when posing.
- Schedule your photographer as soon as you can. We get booked 3 months in advance.
- No 2 moms are the same, listen to your body and what works for you.
What to Wear for a Maternity Photoshoot
When choosing what to wear for your maternity photoshoot, comfort and style should be top priorities. You want to look beautiful while still feeling comfortable.
Consider colors and textures that will flatter your figure and make you feel beautiful. From tight fitting clothing to flowy dresses, slinky tops, or even a white shirt and jeans. All are great choices for taking photos. Consider accessories such as necklaces, scarves, and hats to add an extra touch of personality to your photos.
At our studio, we include designer wardrobe with our maternity photoshoots for your session so you can never run out of maternity outfit ideas! You will have plenty to choose from.
The Best Pregnancy Photo Shoot Poses
Maternity photos come in a variety of styles. To get the most out of your maternity photoshoot, and also look great and in photos, consider incorporating some classic pregnancy poses into your session.
The Classic Sultry Pose
This one is a timeless classic for pregnancy photoshoots! Have the mother-to-be place one hand on her hip and the other behind her head. This will create a beautiful line with the body and accentuate her baby bump.
The Close Up
For an intimate and personal touch, have the mother-to-be pose for a close up shot with her hands on her belly. One of the most popular maternity poses for mom and a great way to capture the emotion and beauty of this special time in her life.
The Arm Around
Another classic pose is to have the mother-to-be place her arm around her baby bump. This will create a beautiful silhouette as it emphasizes the curves of her body and the roundness of her belly.
The Couple Shot
To add an extra special touch, consider having your partner join in the pictures! A classic pose here is to have the couple hold hands while they look lovingly into each other’s eyes.
No matter what poses you choose for your pregnancy photoshoot, make sure you have fun with it and take plenty of time to capture these beautiful moments with your growing baby!
The Best Location for a Maternity Session
When choosing a location for your maternity session, it’s important to think about the type of vibe you want in your photos. Do you want studio photos or an outdoor session?
We recommend taking pictures with your chosen photographer in a studio setting because the benefits to getting your maternity photos professionally done in studio are many. First, the studio offers more control of the lighting and environment, allowing the photographer to create a truly unique and beautiful look for your photos during your scheduled time frame.
Most women can agree that driving around to find the right location can be tiring, especially in the later months. Whether you’re a first time mom or this is your second or third time, capturing the incredible changes your body is going thru with a maternity photo session should be a fun experience, not a stressful one.
The studio also provides more comfort than an outdoor session. You won’t have to worry about other people interrupting your shoot. Additionally, studio sessions often come with additional props and backdrops that can add a personal touch to your photos.
By booking an in studio maternity photoshoot, you can also be sure to capture the beauty and joy of your growing baby in a special, private setting!
See reviews from our past clients here.
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by filing the contact form, sending an email to [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
