When to Take Maternity Photos: The Best Time to Schedule Your Maternity Session

One of the most common questions I hear is: When should you take maternity photos? For most expecting moms, the ideal time is between 28 and 34 weeks. During that window, your belly is usually beautifully visible, but you’re often still comfortable enough to enjoy the session and move with ease.

That said, every pregnancy is different. The best time to schedule maternity photos depends on how you’re feeling, whether you’re expecting multiples, and the kind of session you want. If you’re planning a studio or outdoor maternity session in Chicago, a little planning can help you choose the timing that feels best for you.

The Best Time to Take Maternity Photos

For most expecting mothers, the best time to schedule maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks.

This timing tends to work well because your bump is more defined, your pregnancy is clearly visible in photos, and you still usually have enough energy to enjoy the session. Many moms find that by this point they feel far enough along to really celebrate their pregnancy, but not so far along that they feel rushed or physically uncomfortable.

That said, there is no one perfect week for everyone. Some women love scheduling closer to 28 weeks, while others prefer waiting until 32 or 33 weeks for a fuller belly. The right timing is the one that lets you feel both beautiful and comfortable.

If you’re just starting to plan, it can help to [browse my maternity photography work] and think about the style of images you’re drawn to most.

Why 28 to 34 Weeks Works So Well

There’s a reason this timeframe is recommended so often. It tends to offer the best balance of beauty, comfort, and flexibility.

Your bump is clearly visible

One of the biggest reasons to wait until the third trimester is that your pregnancy will photograph more clearly. By 28 weeks and beyond, most moms have a shape that reads beautifully on camera, whether you’re wearing a fitted dress, something flowing, or even a more casual everyday look.

You’re often still comfortable enough for photos

Comfort matters more than people think. Even a laid-back maternity session involves movement, standing, walking a bit, and shifting between poses. Scheduling in that 28–34 week range often means you still feel more mobile and more like yourself.

When You May Want to Schedule Earlier

While 28 to 34 weeks is ideal for many moms, there are definitely situations where earlier is better.

If you’re expecting twins or multiples

If you’re carrying twins or multiples, your body may feel further along sooner. Many twin moms choose to schedule closer to 24 to 30 weeks so they can capture the bump while still feeling as comfortable as possible.

Planning around a season or an outdoor location

Indoor vs. Outdoor Maternity Photos

The kind of maternity session you want can also influence timing a little bit.

Studio maternity sessions

Studio maternity photos are a great option if you want something timeless, calm, and weather-proof. They also tend to be more comfortable later in pregnancy because you’re not dealing with walking long distances, uneven ground, or Chicago weather doing its thing.

A studio session can be especially helpful if you’re scheduling toward the later end of your ideal window and want a more relaxed experience.

Outdoor maternity sessions

Outdoor maternity sessions can feel soft, natural, and full of movement. They’re beautiful for moms who love a little scenery and want that seasonal feel in their photos.

If you’re choosing an outdoor session, I usually recommend booking early enough that we have flexibility with weather, sunset timing, and your comfort level. Chicago wind, heat, or winter chill can all play a role, so a little extra planning goes a long way.

How to Know You’re Ready for Maternity Photos

Book earlier than you think you need to

Even if your session won’t happen until the third trimester, it’s a good idea to inquire earlier in your second trimester. That gives you more options for dates, locations, wardrobe planning, and overall flexibility.If you’re already thinking about it, this is a great time to [reach out through my contact page] and start the conversation

Think about the feel you want

Do you want something soft and intimate? More elevated and editorial? Natural and playful with your partner or children? Knowing the vibe you want helps shape the timing, styling, and location of your session.

Plan outfits that highlight your shape

Maternity photos tend to be most flattering when clothing helps show your bump clearly. That could mean a fitted dress, a flowy dress with movement, a bodysuit and cardigan, or something beautifully simple and minimal.

If you’re wondering what photographs best, I always recommend choosing pieces that feel like you, while still showing off your shape.

Decide who you want included

Spring maternity sessions

Spring is lovely for soft color, flowering trees, and a fresh, airy feel. It’s especially pretty if you want that light, romantic look.

Summer maternity sessions

Summer offers lush greenery, golden sunsets, and longer evenings. It’s beautiful, but it can also be hot, so comfort becomes especially important later in pregnancy.

Fall maternity sessions

Fall is one of the most popular times for maternity photos in Chicago. The colors are gorgeous, the light is warm, and the weather is often more comfortable for an outdoor session.

Winter maternity sessions

Winter sessions can feel cozy, minimal, and elegant. They’re often especially well-suited to indoor or studio maternity photography, where you can stay comfortable while still creating something beautiful.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Ready to Plan Your Maternity Session?

If you’re in that sweet spot of pregnancy and starting to think about photos, I’d love to help you create something natural, meaningful, and beautiful.

You can learn more about maternity sessions, book a maternity photoshoot, or contact me here to start planning.

Hi mommas. Do you have your maternity session booked (or are thinking about signing up for one) and wanna make sure you love the pics? I feel you. Photography styles range A LOT. Ensure you capture photos YOU love with these helpful tips I’ve learned as a both a mom and maternity photographer.

How to make your maternity photoshoot unique to you.

Everyone feels and experiences pregnancy differently. Some women are over the moon with the whole baby taking over their bodies. Others, not so much. Pregnancy brings with it a mix of emotions for many women.  Because this is an intimate and personal part of your life, your maternity photo shoot should reflect your unique spirit. Maybe you’re a naturalist, hippie earth-momma, and want barefoot in a field. Or on the other hand, maybe humidity and bugs buzzing nearby sounds awful while a glamorous long flowing dress, full lashes, and a fan blowing your hair like Bey at the Superbowl is more your thing. Staying true to yourself will help you feel connected to the experience and cherish these photos for years and years.

1. A meaningful location for your maternity photos

One way to make your maternity session more unique is by choosing a location that holds a personal meaning for you. For example, my husband and I first met at Montrose Harbor (where this photo was taken). It’s now one my favorite places in Chicago, and I love going back there for pictures. 

You could also consider a photo shoot in your home using your bedroom, living room, or bathroom for a more intimate setting.  You’ll have pictures that carry an extra layer of closeness to you because of the setting. Also, it may make it much easier for your partner or furbaby to join in some pictures. 

A studio setting controls lighting and ensures weather isn’t an issue. But, something feels so apropos about a mother-to-be taking photos out in Mother Nature. I believe the outdoors helps awaken the senses, even bringing out the more instinctual sides of us. You could take your shoes off, let your hands trace through overgrown grass, or sit beneath a tree to root yourself to the earth a bit. Water is also a powerful element to incorporate into your maternity pictures. Wade into the waves of Lake Michigan and let yourself float on a slow current in a river. The water can feel cooling against your perpetually warm skin, and your body’s buoyancy relieves aching joints and stretched muscles. 

2. Include your partner in your maternity photos

While this experience is a chance to celebrate all you’re doing, your significant other probably plays a big support role. Involving them in the photoshoot is a chance to celebrate the beautiful life you two created. It’s especially meaningful if there were difficulties the two of you went through together to conceive or throughout your pregnancy. Honor all that you have been through together with pictures that connect you to this moment.

3. Pick a theme that reflects your personality.  

Incorporating your hobby or interest is another way to make your maternity photos unique. Are you a painter? Throw on those overalls splashed with drips of color. Do you love to bake? Play off the old concept of barefoot in the kitchen while making a cake that suggests something about baby-on-board or whip up a “bun” in the oven. Do you have a green thumb? Wonderful! Flowers and plants can be a great prop  for your photos. Or you could use the location to connect with your hobby, like choosing a greenhouse or garden for your photos . Maybe you’re a sports fan, movie buff, or avid reader. All these hobbies can lend themselves to more creative, personal expressions of you in your maternity pictures. 

4. Select outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident.

If ever there’s a time to show off your form, it’s during a maternity photoshoot. Your body creates such an incredible, dramatic shape while pregnant. Accentuate your form with tighter-fitting clothes or pieces that open in the front to reveal your bump. There are no rules, though, so while simple black body-con dresses or long, sheer robes are popular options, feel encouraged to stay true to your style. Maybe it’s flanneled pajamas, unbuttoned a bit in the middle. How about a sports bra and yoga pants rather than a form-fitting dress? A simple white sheet, cotton bra, and underwear set, oversized jeans, or cozy sweater are other options. 

I’ve seen women wear “I murdered my husband robe” that looks like a traditional sheer and feather numbers from the 1940s and others who’ve opted for boxy crop tops and commando boots. I can’t encourage you enough to embrace what makes you feel good. I love hearing what you’re thinking ahead and customizing the scene, lighting, and props to relate to each mom-to-be. 

5. Bring props or accessories that tell your story.

I’ve worked with all types of women with such a wide range of experiences with pregnancy and birth. Some women have struggled through countless shots, pills, and tests in their journey to conceive, and other women were surprised later in life when they least expected to be pregnant. If there’s something special to your pregnancy journey, consider bringing it along. Ultrasounds, baby shoes and blankets, announcement notes, and even totems or charms are all things to consider. Personal mementos or sentimental items like notes, gifts from partners, and family heirlooms are also beautiful pieces to make your pictures more unique. 

6. Choose a photographer that understands your vision.

First of all, if you don’t have one, that’s ok! A professional photographer can help with this. Just chat beforehand to tell your photog what you’re comfortable with or if there’s certain images on their portfolio you’re drawn to, and they should be able to take it from there. But, if you do have a vision, share it! For example, this photo is of my dear friend and long time work partner, makeup artist, Emily Wolf. When it came time for her maternity session, she sent me a three page pdf of photos and ideas, organized into look 1: sheer robe, look 2: white shirt on bed,  look 3: black oversized shoot and editorial light. Let’s just say, I understood the assignment 🙂 I loved her clear vision and we had the best time working and creating these images together. Wanna see them all?  Inquire for link to her full session. 

I love hearing about the women’s experiences. Pregnancy is a fascinating, magical process, and I want to create pictures that capture how incredible it is. I would love to hear from you about your vision, and if you’re still unsure, that’s ok; we can figure it out together. We can discuss the types of pictures that speak to you, the clothes you feel best in, and what setting feels good. Again, everyone is different, but it’s so fulfilling to showcase each woman in their way. 

8. Invite siblings or the whole family to your maternity photoshoot

If you’re already a mom, make the moment even more meaningful by incorporating big brother or sister in to the photos. This is a really special way to create a connection between your baby to be and your your little one. The photos also hold a special significance because they capture this transitional time of going from one to two (or more!)

Authentic maternity photos instead of overly photoshopped

I want you to feel that “hard to put into words” sense of rightness when you see your pictures. These photos will be your time capsule to revisit and experience this remarkable and fleeting moment in your life. Creating them in a way that feels authentic and not overly stylized will only make these pictures more meaningful. I hope the tips in this article help you get those moving pictures you’ll cherish every time you look back at them.

The journey of pregnancy is a remarkable and unique experience for every woman. Whether one goes through it once or twice is a milestone worth documenting. As someone who has experienced it firsthand, I highly recommend capturing the beautiful and life-changing process of growing a human. Though the journey may not always be easy, the end result is truly miraculous. Looking back on my pregnancy pictures fills me with immense gratitude and joy.

For more maternity content, check out:

The therapeutic benefits of maternity photos

Maternity Photography Portfolio

The renewing power of maternity photos

Pregnancy is one of the most magical and mind-blowing transformations a human can go through. Despite being such a meaningful time, 40 weeks of growing life can be super taxing on both the mind and body.  

As surprising as it might sound, taking maternity photos provides an often much need chance to pause and connect with the incredible process YOU are enabling.  

How are maternity pictures therapeutic?

• ALL the TLC. When all the focus is on what you can do to nurture your growing baby, this is a chance to be on the receiving end of a little TLC. The hair and makeup process will give you some much-deserved pampering and help you feel more like a goddess vs. an incubator.
• Community. You’ll be in a safe space among other women who are there to support you. Most of our team are moms, so we can truly relate to what you’re going through. We’re here to acknowledge all that this time means, both the wonderful and the difficult.
• Meditative. Taking pictures, much like meditation, helps you connect with the present moment. You don’t have to worry about doctors’ appointments, nursery setup, or prenatal classes. Instead, for the three hours you’re with us, you get to just relish in the wonder of pregnancy. It might sound a bit cheesy, but it’s not uncommon for women to even get emotional during their sessions. Being able to drop into your body and feel free to acknowledge all the many changes you’re going through can be cathartic.
• You feel beautiful. The truth is, not everyone loves what pregnancy does to our bodies. Many women feel like crap for most of their pregnancy. So having professional hair and makeup, a gorgeous setting, great lighting, and all the right angles will remind you that you ARE still beautiful, even if you don’t always feel that way.

“I feel more beautiful in these than in my wedding photos and I really love my wedding photos, lol. I cried looking at them! I can’t thank you two enough!” -Demi P

Frequently asked questions about maternity photos:

Which maternity photography style is right for you?

As you’ve probably gathered looking through our images, maternity photography can range in style from intimate, boudoir maternity to natural, candid imagery.  Every session we do is customized to YOUR taste and comfort.  Some women want soft and natural, others want drama, and even others wish to fine art nude. We’ll chat before your session to discuss all the options to ensure you’re comfortable and confident going into your experience.

Going “bump-out” and all that entails:

If you go “bump-out” or even fully nude, know you’re in a safe space.  I’ve worked with hundreds of women over the last decade, most of who come in with their fair share of nerves. I have a lot of practice posing and directing women of all different shapes, sizes, and experiences. You can think of me a bit like a fitness instructor. I’ll guide you through poses that will flatter your frame and highlight all those beautiful pregnancy curves. Also, rest assured that your images always remain private by default.  Unless you give specific permission for use (as with these clients), they’ll stay locked away in the password-protected archives.

When should I come in for a maternity photoshoot? 

In my experience, the sweet spot is between 7-8 months or 30-34 weeks.  You should have a nice popped bump by this point but minimal swelling.  All pregnancies are different, though, so if you’re popping early (often familiar with second or third-time moms) or late (more common with longer torsos), you might want to come in a little earlier or later than the others.

What should I wear? 

Oh yes, the BIG question.  Aren’t we always asking ourselves this while pregnant?  It can be a bit of a challenge dressing your bump.  Our general advice is to let it take front and center.  Form-fitting pieces are great for maternity sessions.  I love simple, form-fitting dresses or tops that will make for a great silhouette, button-down shirts that open at the waist to show your belly, and activewear sets like boy shorts, a bralette, yoga pants, and a sports bra.  Robes are also great for flexibility and feel ultra-feminine. Tunic or maxi dresses are also fabulous but require a little more involvement with how they lay or are pulled against your body to show off your bump.  Take a peek through our images to see some of the pieces that have worked for other clients, and feel free to ask for more help anytime leading up to your session.  I’m happy to provide links to options I’ve found to photograph well.

In the end, stay true to yourself.  I love it when people express their personality through their clothing (like one client wearing her favorite worn-out jeans, unbuttoned to fit, but a nod to her identity beyond expectant mom.)

Can I bring my significant other? 

Absolutely.  Partners are a huge part of the experience; I welcome them in the pictures.  Many clients have their significant other come for the last 15-30 minutes of their session, to get pictures together. If you’re significant other isn’t too keen on photos (it’s ok, it’s not uncommon), then even 5 minutes at the beginning or end of your photoshoot is fine.  I try to keep my couples sessions fun and easy-going for any reluctant participants 😉

Can I bring my other kid(s)?

Sure thing!  I’m happy to incorporate older siblings into the photo shoot.  If you don’t plan to have them in all your photos, please bring someone to help supervise them during that time.

How many images do I receive, and how long after the session?

Your session includes at least 30 images.  I’ll have them uploaded to an online gallery within ten days of your session, where you can view and download them.

Are photos touched up?

They are!  I complimentary touch-up things like bruises, blemishes, apparent skin texture, and garment bulges.  These photos are all about celebrating you at this moment, so I won’t be changing the integrity of your frame or making you look like someone else. If there’s something, in particular, you’re uncomfortable with (i.e., the line on your belly button that may appear) just let me know.  Things can always be lightened to minimize the appearance without removing it altogether.

What sort of prints or products can I purchase? 

I have a wide selection of beautiful products to showcase your images.  Popular selections include framed wall art, albums, and image boxes. You can view the examples below. I’ll show you these while you’re in the studio, and you’ll have the chance to purchase your own via the online gallery.

Where are you located? What is the studio like?

My studio is in the Chicago northside neighborhood of Ravenswood. I have a two-story coach house space with white brick walls, espresso hardwood floors upstairs, and contemporary fixtures and accents.   There’s lots of natural light, photogenic sets, and plenty of privacy.

When and where are outdoor maternity photos taken? 

Chicago has so many unique backgrounds. We’re lucky to be in an area where you can find both urban cityscape, spots that look like you are miles out in the country, and even a little of both.  During our consultation, I’ll ask you a few questions to learn more about what style of images you want and offer suggestions from my list of go-to spots.  If you’re looking for more intimate photos outdoors, I even know locations for that.  Of course, early morning hours for those types of pictures will provide more privacy.  While it might be a tough wake-up, I promise the setting and gorgeous morning light make it well worth it.

Do you offer bundle packages for maternity photos plus newborn or family pictures?

I do! I can bundle you two, three, and even four sessions in a year. Our most popular bundle option is maternity, newborn, and one additional session when the baby is sitting or walking (great for holiday cards.) You can learn more about my family sessions here.

Ready to book your maternity session? Great! I can’t wait to connect. You can contact me here. If you have more questions, schedule a 15-minute stress-free phone call here.

An intimate in-home maternity photoshoot

I love maternity for the chance to celebrate this incredible, magical time in women’s lives.