When To Take Maternity Photos

A Mom’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Pregnancy Photoshoot

Whether you’re already pregnant (yay, congratulations!) or planning for that positive test, I’m so glad you’ve found your way here.

Pregnancy is an exciting, fleeting moment in your life. Maternity photos give you a chance to celebrate this chapter. It’s a time to create lasting memories you can look back on with your little one someday.

Maternity photos are more than just pictures. They capture love, anticipation, and excitement. Whether it’s a fun print in the nursery or the last photos you take as a couple, these images hold special meaning. They mark a moment before your world changes forever.

Why Maternity Photos Matter

You might be wondering, “Why should I invest in maternity photos?” After all, pregnancy is a busy, sometimes chaotic time. But that’s exactly why maternity photos are so important.

This moment is something you’ll want to look back on.

Someday, you’ll share these photos with your child, telling them the story of how they came into the world.

It could be a fun print in the nursery. Or it might be a memory of your last moments as a couple. These moments are captured in beautiful maternity pictures before your little one arrives.

For first-time moms, maternity photos are also a celebration of your journey—the last time it will be just the two of you.

Capturing this moment gives you something to remember the strength, beauty, and excitement of pregnancy.

It’s a way to remember how special this time was, even when it feels like the days are flying by.

When is the Best Time for Maternity Photos?

The best time to take maternity photos is typically between 28 and 34 weeks. During this time, your bump is noticeable, and you still have the energy and comfort to enjoy the session. It’s the perfect window to celebrate this exciting time when you’re glowing but not feeling too worn out.

This is the time when your pregnancy is at its most visible and when the photos will truly reflect how beautiful this journey is.

If you’re wondering when to take maternity photos, there are a few things to keep in mind based on your unique pregnancy:

• First-time moms might show a little later, so your 28-34 week window might be closer to 30 weeks. This also gives us room to shift dates if needed and not be too close to your due date.
• If you’re expecting multiples or it’s your second (or third) pregnancy, you may show earlier, with a more pronounced bump. In these cases, booking your session a little earlier—around 26-30 weeks—might be ideal.

Weather considerations are also something to plan for, especially in Colorado.

If you plan an outdoor maternity photo shoot in winter or early spring, allow extra time in your schedule. Weather can delay shoots, so having extra time built in will ensure you’re not rushed and can still capture beautiful memories.

As a maternity photographer in Colorado, I have seen how timing can change the outcome of a session. Booking your session with a bit of flexibility ensures we have the perfect moment to capture you and your bump, no matter the season.

Studio or Outdoor Maternity Photos: What’s Right for You?

When choosing a location for your pregnancy photoshoot, you have two great options: studio or outdoor. Your choice depends on the style you want for capturing your journey. Both offer unique experiences and create memories that will last forever.

Studio Maternity Photoshoots

If you’re drawn to a timeless modern vibe, a studio maternity session is perfect. The clean, all-white background makes a simple, minimalist space. Here, the focus is on you—your glowing bump, your bond with your partner, and the love you share. The natural light makes these ideal for families with toddlers who prefer a morning maternity photo session.

Outdoor Maternity Photoshoots

For a relaxed, natural experience, an outdoor session could be ideal. Whether in a scenic meadow, under the mountains, or by a calm lake, outdoor shoots bring an organic, authentic feel to your photos. Most outdoor pregnancy photos are taken an hour before sunset to capture that golden hour glow.

What Should I Wear for Maternity Photos?

What you wear should reflect how you feel during this special time. You can choose a maternity dress for elegance or a casual outfit for comfort. It’s important to pick styles that make you feel beautiful and confident in front of the camera.

Styling Tips for Outdoor Maternity Photoshoots

Outdoor maternity photoshoots allow you to capture the beauty of nature alongside your pregnancy glow, creating a more relaxed and organic feel. The natural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of looks, and the key is to choose outfits that complement both your style and the environment.

• Client Closet Maternity Dresses: Many clients love to choose from my client closet for a timeless and effortless look. Soft, flowing maternity dresses are perfect for outdoor shoots, especially in settings like wildflower fields or mountain backdrops. The movement of the fabric in the breeze adds a touch of magic to your photos. I recommend neutral tones like whites, creams, or soft pastels to create a serene, timeless look that complements the natural beauty around you.
• Fitted Sweater Dress: For a modern yet cozy feel, a fitted sweater dress is a great choice. It highlights your bump while offering comfort and warmth, especially if we’re shooting in cooler weather or in a wooded area. This style works beautifully with the outdoor elements, giving your photos a chic, yet relaxed vibe. Opt for a neutral shade like beige, light gray, or a soft taupe to keep the focus on you and the stunning backdrop.
• Casual Looks with Jeans: For those who prefer a more casual look, jeans paired with a simple top or fitted sweater offer a comfortable and chic option for outdoor sessions. Neutral colors like white, gray, or earthy tones work best as they blend seamlessly with nature and won’t distract from the beautiful scenery. This style is perfect for a more relaxed vibe, and it lets you move comfortably during the session while still looking stylish.
• Footwear and Accessories: Keep your footwear simple and elegant. Consider flat sandals or ankle boots that work with the terrain and keep you comfortable as we move through the outdoor location. For accessories, consider layers like chunky cardigans or a cozy knit jacket. These add warmth and texture to your photos, creating a relaxed, stylish look that enhances the natural beauty of the shoot.

Styling Tips for Studio Maternity Photoshoots

The beauty of a studio maternity photoshoot is its simplicity:

• Fitted Sweater Dress: Offers a timeless, modern vibe as it gently hugs your bump, comfortable in neutral shades.
• All-White Gauzy Maternity Dress: Perfect for creating dreamy, timeless images with a modern backdrop.
• Casual and Relaxed Look with Jeans: Wear a bralette tank top with a cropped sweater for a comfy and stylish look. This outfit highlights your lovely baby bump.
• Fitted Sweater: Cozy yet polished; tucked into high-waisted jeans for a chic look.

Posing for Your Maternity Photoshoot

You may be concerned about posing—don’t worry, it’s simpler than it sounds.

The best maternity photos are those where you’re feeling comfortable and authentic.

• Show Off Your Glow: Natural poses like cradling your belly bring out the beauty of your pregnancy.
• Partner Shots: Capture soft, intimate moments of connection.
• Candid Moments: Unscripted shots like laughing together or walking hand-in-hand often make the best memories.

How Far in Advance Should I Book a Maternity Photographer?

Scheduling your maternity photographer well in advance is essential to capturing the perfect moment of your pregnancy.

Ideally, reach out to photographers when you’re entering your second trimester. This timeline allows ample time to find the right professional, ensuring availability during your optimal session window.

Securing your photographer early avoids the stress of last-minute bookings, which may limit your choices. Photographers often book months in advance, especially if they specialize in maternity shoots. Advanced booking allows for thoughtful planning, considering unique requirements or desired themes.

Ultimately, the earlier you book, the more options you’ll have to create breathtaking maternity memories. A proactive approach secures your preferred photographer and enhances the overall quality and enjoyment of the process.

Let’s Start Planning my Pregnancy Photoshoot!

Maternity photos are more than just pictures—they’re a celebration of this special time. Whether a timeless modern studio session or a natural outdoor shoot, these photos will be cherished forever.

Let’s talk about all of your maternity photoshoot ideas. I can share my ideas too. Together, we can create a unique maternity photography session just for you!

Ready to make these memories last? Booking your maternity session should be an exciting thing to do on your checklist. Click HERE to start planning!