Are you planning your maternity photoshoot but unsure when you should go about it? Let me help you! I'm a professional photographer based in Ottawa who has taken photos of hundreds of pregnant mothers.


When it comes to maternity photos, you want to show that round belly, right? But you also want to be fairly comfortable and relaxed.


This is why most photographers recommend scheduling the session during the 28 to 36-week window. This is the seventh and eighth month of the pregnancy. This is the ideal time to show that round baby bump.


And let's be real. Photo sessions do take a lot of effort. You'll have to pose in different ways and stand up for a while. All this can be tiring for expecting moms. This is why the seventh and eighth month is perfect for such activities.


Factors to Consider While Planning Your Maternity Photo Session


Let's look at a few factors you should consider while you schedule your maternity shoot -


1) First pregnancy


Each pregnancy is unique. But I've noticed that, in general, first-time moms tend to start showing a bit later in pregnancy photos compared to those in their later pregnancies.


With later pregnancies, the body may adapt more quickly, causing a baby bump to appear earlier, but whatever the cause is, this difference can be seen in pictures. So schedule a time to take your maternity photos accordingly if it is your first baby.

2) Special moment


Is there a special location or season you've always dreamt of for your maternity photos? While you can't control your baby's due date, you can pick a location you love within the 28-34-week window for your maternity session.


Many moms want their maternity photos with a specific seasonal backdrop. Options range from blooming flowers in the spring, vibrant fall foliage, avoiding the holiday hustle in the winter, or steering clear of summer heatwaves.

So, you can schedule your photo session accordingly to fulfill your vision for maternity photographs.


3) Expecting multiples


If you are expecting twins or multiples, your approach to maternity photos will change! When carrying more than one baby, your bump will appear earlier and grow larger than with a single pregnancy.


Soon to be mothers expecting twins often feel more comfortable and at ease during their second trimester for maternity photos. This is why I recommend to schedule your photoshoot between 20-28 weeks.


Usually, twins are born before their due date. So, it's important to allow extra time when planning your pregnancy photo session so that we can capture this special moment the right way.


4) Anxiety


If you're feeling anxious about your maternity photos for any reason, it might be a good idea to schedule the session earlier. This can be especially good for moms who are concerned about the possibility of delivering early or who may feel self-conscious about their changing bodies.

Holding the Photo Session Earlier


While we do recommend holding the photo session during the 28 to 36-week time frame, there are some cases where you can make exceptions. Let's look at those cases -


Having multiple babies


If you're expecting twins or multiples, it's a good idea to plan your maternity shoot earlier than the seventh or eighth month. Aim to schedule it during the second trimester, specifically between 13 and 24 weeks of pregnancy.


This timeframe is ideal because it captures the beauty of your growing baby bump while you still feel relatively comfortable and energetic. Even though your little ones won't arrive for several more weeks, this period offers a perfect balance between a visible and beautiful baby bump.


High-risk pregnancies


High-risk pregnancies are becoming more common as medical advancements give people the opportunity to choose parenthood later in life when they are comfortable and settled.


While most high-risk pregnancies progress smoothly, scheduling maternity photos during the second trimester is recommended. Typically, this period is between 13 and 26 weeks. This is often the most suitable time for a maternity shoot because the baby bump is beautifully visible, and the expecting parent generally feels more comfortable.


Pregnancy announcements


If you want to use maternity photos for announcements, you should have your maternity photo session earlier. Typically, it’s important to plan the shoot around the beginning of the third trimester, typically around weeks 27 to 28.

Final Thoughts


Every pregnancy is a miracle and a moment you want to remember forever. A maternity photoshoot is exactly the right way to do that.


What month to take maternity photos depends on your mental and physical health. While there is no strict rule over when to take maternity photos, the seventh and eighth month is the ideal time.


However, one can move their maternity photoshoot around due to factors like high-risk pregnancy, twins, or being a first-time mom. This is because it is all about the mom's comfort and how she feels is the best!


I hope this guide helped you understand when to take maternity pictures. If you're still unsure, come down to see me to schedule and book timeless maternity photo sessions to cherish forever!


FAQs


What factors should I consider when choosing the time for a maternity photo session?


Factors one should consider while choosing when to take maternity photos include how you feel physically and mentally, the growth of your baby bump, and any preferences you have for the season of your photoshoot.


What if I have a high-risk pregnancy or special considerations?


If you have any medical concerns or specific needs, let your maternity photographer know ahead of time. This is so that they can make adjustments to the maternity photo shoot to accommodate your comfort and safety.


Do you offer both maternity and newborn sessions?


Yes, at Sevil Topas Photography, we offer both maternity and newborn sessions. We have options available for all new or expecting parents. You can book maternity photos or newborn photos any time.