When to Take Maternity Photos: The Sweet Spot (and Smart Exceptions)

Parents ask me constantly when to take maternity photos so the bump looks beautiful, you still feel good, and we’re not racing your due date. There is a sweet spot. And there are smart exceptions for first pregnancies, twins, and high-risk care. Let’s dial in your week with zero stress.

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Why timing matters (and how pregnancy weeks are calculated)

A “due date” is an estimate, not a promise. It’s typically calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period and refined by early ultrasound if needed. That’s one reason choosing when to take maternity photos wisely helps—you get the curve and glow without cutting it too close to delivery. For more information on how due dates are calculated, you can visit ACOG

The sweet spot: 28–34 weeks for most pregnancies

For most families, the most reliable answer to when to take maternity photos is 28–34 weeks. Your belly is usually round and high, movement is easier than it will be late in the third trimester, and we’ve got buffer room for weather or a reschedule. This matches what many maternity pros recommend (ranges vary a bit by style), and it aligns nicely with what most bodies are doing in early third trimester. You can see more examples of bump sizes by viewing my maternity portfolio.

What changes the window? (First baby, not your first, twins, and medical guidance)

• First pregnancy: You might “pop” later, so schedule closer to 32–36 weeks if you want a very defined silhouette in fitted dresses. Many people notice the bump becomes obvious for others between the mid-second and early-third trimester. To see how your body and baby changes week by week, visit the Week-by-week pregnancy guide (bump visibility through trimesters)

• Not your first: You’ll often show sooner. Booking 28–32 weeks usually feels great and photographs beautifully.

• Twins or higher multiples: Book earlier—roughly 24–30 weeks—because babies often arrive ahead of the estimated due date and comfort dips earlier with multiples. (Photographers commonly advise this earlier window.)

• High-risk or provider guidance: Follow your clinician’s advice. If they suggest taking it easy, we’ll schedule earlier and keep the session short, supported, and in studio. If anything feels “off” day-of—severe headache, chest pain, or sudden face/hand swelling—call your provider; those can be urgent warning signs.

Too early vs. too late—what actually happens?

Too early (before ~26 weeks): The bump may read smaller than you want in photographs. If you love subtle silhouettes or plan a body-skimming dress, you can absolutely go earlier; just set expectations.

Too late (after ~36 weeks): Comfort gets unpredictable. Swelling, fatigue, and the wild card of early labor signs can derail plans, especially if stairs, hills, or longer walks are involved. If you’re already past 36 weeks, we’ll simplify: shorter session, seated/supportive poses, and easy access locations. Visit the following link to learn what the signs and symptoms of preterm labor are.

How to pick your exact week (simple decision grid)

1. Start from your estimated delivery date (EDD). Count back 6–10 weeks and drop a pin. That lands you in a solid window for most pregnancies. (Remember, EDDs are estimates, refined by early ultrasound.) ACOG

2. Watch your trimester cues. Many people see a small bump by 14-16 weeks, then a clearly visible one by 16–20; by the early third trimester, it’s typically unmistakable. nhs.uk

3. Layer in life and seasons. Want spring blooms but a summer due date? Book the earlier side of your window. Fall foliage lover with a winter due? Same move. Visit this page to track to foliage in Connecticut.

4. Check your comfort trends. Noticing swelling or back pain? Choose earlier. Feeling great and popped late? Go later.

Pro tip: If outdoor walking between locations is part of the plan, schedule 28–32 weeks. If you’re leaning studio and supported posing, 30–34 weeks works beautifully.

What to wear so your timing shines

• Define the waist: Fitted knit dresses make the silhouette read clearly—especially helpful if you’re scheduling earlier in your window.

• Honor comfort late in the game: Near 34–36 weeks, reach for stretch fabrics and easy seams that don’t press on ribs or hips.

• Color strategy: Neutrals and soft-tones are timeless; jewel tones pop outdoors. It’s nice to do two looks—one fitted/contoured and one with movement—to maximize variety.

• Hands help: Resting hands under the bump in a few poses highlights your curve even if the week is on the early side.

And don’t worry if you’re not sure what to wear—I’m here to help with a maternity wardrobe of over 30 dresses and ideas that complement your bump and match the style of the session. Soft dresses, cozy knits, or something more dramatic—I’ll help you feel like the beautiful mama you are.

Comfort checklist for the week of your session

• Hydrate and have a light snack before you leave; energy shows.

• Slip-on shoes save your back during location changes. Your center of gravity will change and not everyone can navigate high-heels when this happens.

• Pack a “tiny tote”: water, lip balm, hair tie, and a simple wrap or cardigan.

• If swelling is common for you, skip tight rings and pick soft footwear for outdoor sessions. (A little swelling is normal late in pregnancy; sudden or extreme swelling needs a call to your provider.) CDC+1

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What if baby or weather surprises us?

We build flexibility into your plan. If your provider asks you to take it easy or the sky throws a tantrum, we reschedule within the same 2–3-week window. If baby decides to headline early, we pivot to newborn portraits. Either way, your story gets preserved with kindness to your body and calendar.

Booking timeline (so you don’t miss your window)

Message your photographer in the second trimester. Popular dates—especially spring and fall—book quickly. This gives you a guaranteed spot in that 28–34-week window, plus time for a wardrobe try-on and location planning. If you just found this post at 35 weeks—reach out anyway. Most pros reserve a couple of flex days for last-minute families. Interested in what a maternity session costs, visit my Sessions and Pricing page.

FAQs

1) What week is the best for maternity portraits?
For most, 28–34 weeks is ideal. First pregnancies often look best nearer 32–36. Expecting twins or more? Aim 24–30 weeks. These ranges balance a clearly defined bump with comfort and rescheduling wiggle room.

2) Is it safe to plan outdoors later in pregnancy?
Yes—pick easy terrain and cooler hours, and listen to your body. If anything feels off (severe headache, chest pain, vision changes, sudden swelling), call your provider and we’ll reschedule or move to studio. CDC

3) What should I wear if my bump still feels small?
Choose a fitted dress and use supportive posing (hands beneath the bump, slight torso turn). Earlier weeks read beautifully with these tricks.

4) Can my partner, kids, or pets be in the portraits?
Absolutely! Your story is a family story. We’ll plan connected, cuddle-heavy poses that feel natural and keep the focus on relationships.

5) What if I’m swollen or exhausted the day of?
We slow down. Seated and supported poses are flattering and comfortable. Close-ups and gentle movement (swaying, walking a few steps) photograph beautifully.

6) I booked late—will portraits still look good at 36–38 weeks?
Yes, with smart posing. We’ll prioritize comfort and choose spots with easy access. If baby comes first, we’ll celebrate with newborn portraits. Interested in learning when you should book a newborn session, visit my Best Time to Take Newborn Portraits post.

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The bottom line

Choosing when to take maternity photos comes down to one thing: a week where your body feels cared for and your bump photographs clearly. For most, that’s 28–34 weeks. We adjust earlier or later for first pregnancies, multiples, medical guidance, seasons, and your personal comfort. With a touch of planning, you’ll step into your session feeling comfortable, confident, and excited—and you’ll walk away with portraits that feel like you.