Planning a maternity photoshoot and wondering when the best time is? Here's everything you need to know about choosing the right stage of pregnancy for your maternity photographs.
Pregnancy is such a special, fleeting part of your story, and maternity photographs are a beautiful way of documenting this little chapter before your baby arrives.
One of the questions I get asked most often is:
"When should we actually book our maternity photoshoot?"
The good news is that there isn't one single "perfect" week that works for everyone. Every pregnancy is different, and how you're feeling is just as important as how your bump looks. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing your ideal time.
When is the ideal time for maternity photography?
For many people, around 28–34 weeks can be a lovely time for maternity photographs. By this stage, your bump is usually beautifully defined and photographs really well, while you may still feel comfortable enough to enjoy your session.
Of course, this isn't a strict rule.
Some people love having their photographs taken earlier in pregnancy, while others would rather wait until their bump is bigger and their pregnancy is more obvious.
Your comfort comes first.
If you're expecting twins, have been advised to expect an earlier delivery, or have any concerns about how you're feeling, it's worth discussing the timing with your healthcare team as well.
Why not leave it until the very end?
It can be tempting to wait until you're 37 or 38 weeks because you want your bump to be as big as possible. But the final few weeks of pregnancy can be unpredictable! You might find yourself feeling more tired, uncomfortable or ready to meet your baby. There's also always the possibility that your little one decides to make an early appearance. For that reason, I generally wouldn't recommend leaving your maternity session until the very last minute.
I'd much rather photograph you when you're feeling comfortable, confident and able to enjoy the experience.
When should you book your maternity photoshoot?
I'd recommend getting in touch during your second trimester, particularly if you already have a rough idea of when you'd like your photographs taken. Booking early doesn't mean you have to know exactly which day you'll want the session. We can work from your due date and choose a suitable timeframe, pencil in a date and then confirm the exact date as you get closer.
This is particularly helpful if you'd like a golden hour beach maternity session like this one here, as we can plan around the best light and the location you have in mind.
What if I don't feel comfortable in front of the camera?
You absolutely don't need to know how to pose!
In fact, that's one of the things I love about my approach to maternity photography. I don't want your photographs to feel stiff or overly posed. I'll give you gentle direction when you need it, but I'll also encourage you to move, interact and enjoy the experience.
Whether you're coming on your own, with your partner, or bringing older children along, we'll create photographs that feel natural and connected to you. There will be plenty of opportunities for beautiful portraits of your bump, but we'll also capture the little interactions and moments between you and the people you love.
What about a solo maternity photoshoot?
Your maternity session doesn't have to include anyone else. It can be completely about you.
A solo maternity photoshoot is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate your pregnancy and give yourself some time to pause and appreciate everything your body is doing before your baby arrives. Whether you'd love elegant portraits, something natural and relaxed outdoors, or photographs that show off your bump against one of Dorset's beautiful landscapes, I'll guide you through the session so you never feel like you need to know what to do in front of the camera.
You don't need to feel confident posing, and you don't need to look a certain way. We'll focus on you, your bump and this incredibly special chapter of your story, creating photographs that celebrate you as a mum, as well as the baby you're waiting to meet.
What should I wear for a maternity photoshoot?
There really isn't one "right" outfit.
You might choose something flowing and simple, something that shows your bump, or an outfit that feels completely like you. For outdoor sessions, I generally recommend choosing something you're comfortable moving around in and colours that work well with the surroundings. And if you're having your session at the beach, don't be afraid to keep things relaxed. Bare feet, windswept hair and a gorgeous sunset can make for some of the most beautiful photographs, have a look at my blog post on the beauty of beach maternity sessions.
I do have some open-fronted dresses that show off your bump in different designs, sizes and colours so please do ask if you'd like to borrow one for your shoot.
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and like yourself.
What happens if the weather isn't on our side?
This is especially relevant for outdoor maternity sessions in Dorset! British weather doesn't always cooperate with our plans. If the weather isn't suitable for your session, we'll simply look at rearranging it for another day.
And sometimes a little bit of cloud can actually create beautiful, soft light, so we don't necessarily need perfect sunshine.
Your maternity photographs should feel like you
There's no need to wait for the "perfect" pregnancy or worry about looking a certain way.
Your body is changing, your family is growing and you're about to meet someone who will completely change your world.
Your photographs don't need to be perfect.
They just need to be yours.
Whether you're imagining a relaxed family session at the beach, a quiet maternity session in nature or something completely different, I'd love to help you create photographs that you'll look back on for years to come.
Thinking about booking a maternity photoshoot in Dorset?
I'd love to hear about your plans and help you find a time that works for you, or if you'd like to know more, see my blog on what to expect during a maternity photoshoot.
