Timeless storytelling through thoughtful photography.
When is the best week to book a maternity photoshoot for the best ‘bump’ shape?
The ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is between 28 and 34 weeks (early third trimester). During this window, the belly is prominent and round, but the physical discomforts of late pregnancy like swelling, aches, or limited mobility haven’t fully set in. If you are expecting twins, aim earlier, around 24 to 28 weeks.
Finding the “Sweet Spot”
I get asked this constantly, and here’s the honest truth: we want to capture that beautiful, round silhouette before you hit the ‘I’m ready for this baby to be out’ phase. Around 30 weeks, you still have that glow and the energy to move, laugh, and perhaps even hike a little to get that perfect light. After 35 weeks, things get a bit heavier, and honestly, I want you to enjoy the experience, not endure it.
Connection Over Calendar
In my work, I’m looking for the connection and anticipation between you and this new life. If we wait too long, we’re often fighting against physical fatigue. If we go too early, the bump might not ‘read’ as clearly on camera. My goal is to find that week where you feel both comfortable and empowered in your changing body. Yes, we are documenting a growing belly, but we’re also photographing you as a woman and you as a new family. With or without your partner and/or other children.
My own maternity shoot was a little earlier than I conventionally book my clients in, because I simply felt because I simply felt the urge to document the shift before the exhaustion set in. I knew my own energy levels were starting to dip, and as a photographer, I’m hyper-aware of how much ‘feeling’ translates through the lens. I wanted to capture the anticipation while I still felt agile and like myself, rather than waiting for the ‘perfect’ size and risking feeling physically overwhelmed. It taught me that while the calendar gives us a guide, your intuition and how you feel in your skin is the most important metric for a beautiful session.
What if I’m “Late” to Booking?
If you’re reading this at 37 weeks, don’t panic. We can still make magic. We just shift the approach. Instead of a long outdoor walk, we might do an intimate, slow-paced ‘at home’ session. The best week is ultimately the one where you show up and feel excited about doing this photoshoot.
So when is the best week to book a maternity photoshoot?
First Baby: 30–34 weeks.
Second/Third Baby: 28–32 weeks (you often show earlier!).
Twins/Multiples: 24–28 weeks.
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