When is the Best Time to Schedule a Maternity Photo Shoot?


IDEAL TIMING FOR MATERNITY PHOTOS


When is the Best Time to Schedule a Maternity Photo Shoot?


pregnant mother having the best time for maternity session in blue gown on purple backdrop

Best Time To Schedule Pregnancy Pictures

Navigating the realm of maternity photography and deciding when to schedule a maternity photo shoot revolves around capturing the essence of a beautifully rounded belly while ensuring the utmost comfort. Typically, the sweet spot resides between the 32nd and 36th weeks of pregnancy. During this magical timeframe, expectant individuals exude a natural radiance, embracing the grace of impending motherhood while maintaining a sense of ease and comfort. This window provides the perfect canvas for capturing the magic and beauty of pregnancy in a relaxed and authentic manner.

Why is 32-36 Weeks Best to Schedule Maternity Photos?


It varies for everyone, but personally, I had my maternity sessions on the early side of this window. I wanted to make sure I was feeling good! In the last month or so of pregnancy, things like swelling and pressure and overall exhaustion are common. Pregnant people usually feel BEST during the 2nd trimester, however we are looking for a combination of feeling good AND showing. It’s in the heart of the third trimester where pregnant bellies blossom into a captivatingly full and round form, bestowing a naturally beautiful shape for our images. Embracing this stage allows us to capture the essence of maternal splendor while ensuring that you feel both comfortable and confident throughout the photoshoot experience. images. 

nude maternity photo woman on red backdrop artistically draped in red and wearing a crown

Is 37 Weeks Too Late for Maternity Photos?

The reason I, like many photographers, hesitate to schedule sessions past 36 weeks is the increased likelihood of going into labor before the shoot takes place. However, if you’re at 37 weeks and feeling up to it, there’s no reason why you can’t have beautiful maternity photos taken.

If you’re considering a photoshoot at 37 weeks, communication with your photographer is key. Let me know how you’re feeling physically and emotionally, as well as any specific concerns or preferences you have for the session. We can tailor the shoot to accommodate your needs, whether that means choosing a location that’s comfortable for you, adjusting the duration of the session, or incorporating poses that are more suitable for your current stage of pregnancy.

family posing in whites and beiges for maternity photo with mom in center, dad, and two older children

When to Book A Maternity Session

To ensure your maternity session is seamlessly coordinated and tailored to your preferences, it is advisable to contact your photographer well in advance. This proactive approach allows for meticulous planning, ensuring that your images encapsulate the magic of this significant period in your life. A well-organized studio maternity session, when scheduled in advance, affords the opportunity to explore various looks and color schemes, enriching the diversity of your final gallery.

While booking during the second trimester is highly recommended for optimal planning and flexibility, at Jennifer McNeil Photography, I understand that circumstances may vary. Therefore, I am always delighted to accommodate last-minute sessions whenever possible. Your satisfaction is my priority, and by reaching out as soon as you decide to schedule your maternity photos, we can initiate a conversation to discuss your ideas, preferences, and any specific requests you may have. This collaborative approach ensures that your maternity photoshoot is not only a visually stunning experience but also a deeply personal and memorable one. I look forward to the opportunity to create timeless and enchanting images that celebrate this beautiful chapter in your life.

 

For more information about how your pregnant body grows week by week, visit Pregnancy: week by week from What To Expect.

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