When To Take Maternity Photos

A Mom’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Pregnancy Photoshoot

Hey Mama,

Congratulations on your pregnancy! Whether you’ve just seen that positive test and are eager to plan ahead, or you’re approaching your due date, I’m thrilled you’ve landed here. Sharing the journey to motherhood with fellow mamas is something I cherish deeply.

I understand that the path to pregnancy varies for everyone—some experience surprises, while others face challenges like infertility. Personally, I’ve walked both paths and connect with the love you’re already sharing with your baby.

When to Schedule Your Maternity Photoshoot

Determining when to take maternity photos can be challenging, especially for first-time moms. Here’s a breakdown to guide you:

• Pregnancy Announcement Photos: Many expectant mothers choose to announce their pregnancy between 12 and 20 weeks. Many moms notice that early challenges, like morning sickness, start to fade in the second trimester. This change brings a nice boost in energy.

This period often feels like a breath of fresh air, allowing you to enjoy your pregnancy more fully.  Creating an ideal time to capture and share your joy with loved ones.

• Maternity Photos: For most pregnancies, the ideal window for a maternity shoot is between 28 and 34 weeks. Knowing when to take maternity photos means we capture your bump at the ideal stage of pregnancy. During this time, your baby bump is beautifully rounded and prominent, making for stunning photographs. Additionally, you’re likely to feel more comfortable and energetic before the final weeks approach.
• What time of day will we do these? If you opt for a modern studio session we will book your photo session anytime in the morning to mid afternoon. This allows us to take advantage of the natural lighting. We will schedule your outdoor maternity pictures one to two hours before sunset during golden hour.

Choosing the Right Trimester to Take Your Maternity Photos

Special Considerations

• First-Time Moms: If this is your first pregnancy, you might start showing a bit later. Scheduling your maternity session between 29 and 36 weeks ensures your bump is well-rounded, capturing this special moment perfectly.
• Expecting Multiples: For those carrying twins or more, it’s advisable to plan your photoshoot earlier, around 24 to 28 weeks. Multiple pregnancies often progress faster, and scheduling earlier ensures you capture your bump before potential discomfort or early delivery.
• High-Risk Pregnancies: If your pregnancy is high-risk or you’ve had early deliveries before, it’s a good idea to schedule your maternity photoshoot a bit earlier. Aim for around 27 to 30 weeks. This way, we can capture beautiful moments while ensuring you’re comfortable and before any potential early arrivals. This approach helps ensure your safety and comfort during the photoshoot.
• Seasonal Preference: If you have a seasonal look you want to go for, we can shift things so you don’t miss the wildflower season in Estes Park or a snowy mountain maternity photo session in Boulder.
• Popular Locations: There are a lot of locations that are popular during certain seasons so planning ahead to accommodate a time where it’s not so busy will pay off.

How Can You Feel Confident During Pregnancy Photos?

I understand that pregnancy affects everyone differently. Some days, you might feel radiant and full of energy, while on others, morning sickness or discomfort can take a toll. Don’t worry mama these feelings are a natural part of this journey. Pregnancy is not always easy for every expecting mama and I will make sure we work around that.

During our maternity photoshoot, as your photographer, my goal is to ensure you’re comfortable and feel beautiful, regardless of how your pregnancy is treating you. We’ll take breaks as needed, choose poses that are gentle and flattering, and create an environment where you can relax and be yourself.

Your comfort is my priority and when you feel good you will look good. I want you to look back on these maternity portraits and remember how amazing you felt during them and the love we captured!

Booking Your Maternity Photographer

I highly recommend booking your maternity photoshoot during your second trimester, as it’s often the best time to capture the glow and excitement of your pregnancy. Early booking ensures availability and provides ample time for planning. If you’re considering newborn photos as well, many photographers offer packages that include both maternity and newborn sessions, providing a cohesive documentation of this special time.

Maternity Photoshoot Ideas

Once you’ve determined the optimal timing for your maternity photos, consider the following ideas to make your maternity photoshoot memorable:

• Maternity Family Photography: Including your partner and children can add depth and emotion to your photos. Capturing the family’s love and connection creates lasting memories. Don’t forget to bring your dogs if you would like them to be a part of this.
• Couples Maternity Photo Session: A session focused on you and your partner can highlight the intimate connection and shared excitement as you prepare to welcome your new addition.
• Outdoor Settings with Mountains or Summer Wildflowers: Utilizing natural landscapes, such as mountainous backdrops or fields of wildflowers, provides a serene and picturesque environment for your photos. These settings are especially popular during the warmer months.
• Fun and Intimate Studio Maternity Photoshoot: A studio session offers a controlled environment where lighting and props can be tailored to your vision. This setting allows for both creative and intimate portraits.
• Casual Looks: Opting for a more relaxed attire that reflects your personal style can make you feel comfortable and authentic during the shoot. Whether it’s a cozy sweater or a simple dress, the key is to wear what makes you feel your best for your pregnancy photographs.

Here is a blog post with some of my favorite maternity photo ideas that my client love as well!

What to Wear for Your Maternity Photoshoot

Choosing the right attire enhances the aesthetic of your pregnancy photoshoot:

• Form-Fitting Dresses: Maternity dresses that hug your curves can beautifully showcase your baby bump. Materials like stretchy lace or jersey are often comfortable and flattering.
• Flowing Two Piece Dresses: These dresses are a client favorite right now. You can wear them to show off your baby bump or wear them higher, giving two look options.
• Textured Fabrics and Layers: Adding textures or layers can add visual interest to your photos. Consider adding a cardigan, wrap, or sweater with texture to a sleek, form-fitting dress.
• Non-Dress Options: If dresses aren’t your preference, consider alternatives like a maternity romper, or jeans with a tank or off-shoulder sweater. These options can provide a similar vibe while making sure you feel confident and true to yourself.
• Color Choices: I recommend using neutrals, whites, and earth tones to keep the focus on your baby bump and provide a timeless look. Be cautious with heavy patterns, as they can be distracting.

By carefully selecting the timing, style, and attire for your maternity photo shoot, you can create beautiful, lasting memories that celebrate this special chapter in your life. Look at some of the maternity photoshoot dresses I provide in my client closet. Normal dresses like maxi dresses are great for day to day but not ideal for photos pregnant.

Maternity Photoshoot Price | How Much Will I Spend?

The cost of a maternity photoshoot varies based on factors such as the photographer’s experience, location, and included services. Prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Investing in a luxury maternity experience often provides personalized services, professional styling, and unique locations, resulting in high-quality, memorable images.

Scheduling Newborn Photos

Planning for newborn photography is equally important. For posed newborn photo sessions, the best age is within the first two weeks after birth, as babies are typically sleepier and more amenable to posing during this period.

Lifestyle newborn photography sessions are scheduled anytime between 1-8 weeks after delivery.

Let’s Plan My Pictures

I am here to support you from booking to your finished photos. Let’s get out there and document your beautiful baby bump together.

Feel free to reach out today and we can figure out when the best time to get maternity photos done will be for you. I look forward to working with you and planning your dream maternity photoshoot, let’s connect!