As a portrait photographer who specializes in capturing beautiful maternity portraits, I get asked all the time about the best time to have these photos taken. While there’s no hard and fast rule, I’ve found that the sweet spot is usually between 26 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, your belly will have a lovely, round shape that’s perfect for capturing in photos, and you’ll still feel comfortable enough to pose for the camera.

So, you’re thinking about booking a maternity portrait session? Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the big day:

  1. Schedule your session in advance. This will give you plenty of time toplan and prepare for the shoot. I recommend booking your session no later than the 20-week mark, so you have ample time to choose your outfits and plan the details.
  2. Choose multiple comfortable outfits. During your shoot, you’ll have the chance to change outfits multiple times to capture different looks. Choose clothes that make you feel comfortable, confident, and show off your beautiful belly. Simple, solid-colored dresses or tops and pants are always a great choice.
  3. Bring any special accessories or jewelry. If you have any special jewelry or accessories that you’dlike to include in your photos, be sure to bring them along. These items can add a personal touch to your images and make them even more special.
  4. Get plenty of rest. You want to look and feel your best for your shoot, so make sure to get plenty of rest in the days leading up to it. You don’t want to show up feeling tired and run-down.
  5. Relax and trust your photographer. It’s important to relax and trust your photographer. They’ll guide you through the process and help you look your best in your photos.
  6. Know what poses you like. Take some time to look at maternity portraits and note which poses you like. Share these ideas with your photographer to ensure you get the images you want.
  7. Stay hydrated and snack. Staying hydrated and having snacks during your shoot can help you feel your best throughout your session. Plus, a little pick-me-up can never hurt!
  8. Enjoy the experience. This is a special time in your life, and your maternity portrait session is a chance to capture this moment. Have fun with it and embrace the experience!

Preparing for a maternity portrait session can be a little daunting, but with these tips, you’ll be ready to rock your shoot and capture some beautiful images. Remember to relax, trust your photographer, and most importantly, have fun! I’ll be there to help guide you through the entire experience, so you can feel confident and comfortable throughout the shoot. These photos will be a cherished memory for years to come.