March 9, 2026
Pregnancy is such a beautiful and fleeting season of life. Your body is changing, your family is growing, and the anticipation of meeting your baby is something truly special. One of the most common questions I receive as a maternity photographer is “When should I schedule my maternity photos?”
The timing of your session can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel and how your photos turn out. This guide will help you understand the best time to schedule and take your maternity photo session so we can capture this season in the most beautiful and natural way.
When to Schedule Maternity Photos
The ideal time to take maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.
During this stage, your baby bump is beautifully round and visible, but you are typically still comfortable enough to move around and enjoy your session. Many moms-to-be find this window to be the perfect balance between showing off their bump and still feeling relaxed and confident.
Every pregnancy is different, but this timeframe tends to work best for most maternity sessions.
Why 28–34 Weeks Works Best
There are a few reasons why this stage of pregnancy photographs so well.
Your Bump Is Clearly Visible
By the third trimester, your belly has developed into that beautiful, round shape that photographs so well. Earlier in pregnancy, your bump may not be as defined in photos.
You Are Usually More Comfortable
Later in pregnancy, many moms experience increased swelling, fatigue, and discomfort. Scheduling your session before those final weeks helps ensure you can move comfortably, walk to locations, and fully enjoy the experience.
We Avoid the Risk of Baby Arriving Early
Scheduling your maternity photos before the very end of pregnancy helps make sure we capture this special time before your little one decides to arrive early.
When to Book Your Maternity Session
Even though your photos will take place around 28–34 weeks, I recommend booking your maternity session during your second trimester.
This helps ensure availability on my calendar, especially during the busy spring and fall seasons when outdoor sessions are most popular.
Booking early also gives you plenty of time to plan wardrobe, choose your session location, and prepare for your photos.
What If I’m Showing Earlier or Later?
Every pregnancy is unique. Some moms show earlier, while others may have a smaller bump until later in pregnancy.
If you are expecting twins or multiples, I often recommend scheduling your maternity session a little earlier, typically around 26–30 weeks, since bumps tend to grow more quickly and comfort levels can change sooner.
The most important thing is choosing a time when you feel beautiful, comfortable, and excited to document this moment.
Capturing This Special Season
Maternity sessions are about more than just documenting a baby bump. They capture the anticipation, excitement, and love that comes before your baby arrives.
Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, this season deserves to be remembered. Your maternity photos will become part of your family’s story and something you can look back on for years to come.
Planning Your Maternity Session with Katie Leavine Photography
At Katie Leavine Photography, my goal is to create a relaxed and meaningful maternity session that highlights the beauty of this stage of motherhood. I guide you through the entire process so you can feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
If you’re expecting and thinking about scheduling your maternity photos, I would love to help you capture this special time.
You should book your maternity session once you are out of your first trimester. The ideal time for maternity photos is usually between 28–34 weeks, when your belly is beautifully round and you’re still feeling comfortable. Every pregnancy is different, though, so we’ll choose a time that feels best for you.
My goal is for you to feel confident, relaxed, and glowing during your session—not rushed or uncomfortable.
Don’t stress—this is something I help you with every step of the way.
Once you’re booked, you’ll receive my style guide with color suggestions, outfit tips, and examples. I’m also always happy to help you choose outfits through text or email.
My goal is for you to feel beautiful, comfortable, and like yourself.
Yes, absolutely. I encourage parents and siblings to be part of newborn sessions.
These early family moments are so meaningful, and I love capturing the connection between you and your newest little love.
Yes. All final images are professionally edited in my signature style.
This includes gentle skin smoothing, color correction, and light retouching—while still keeping everything natural and true to you and your baby.
You’ll look like yourselves on your very best day.
Yes—100%.
You never have to worry about what to do with your hands, where to look, or how to stand. I’ll gently guide you into natural, flattering poses that feel comfortable and authentic.
You can simply show up and trust the process.
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