The most common question I receive about maternity is when to schedule your maternity photography session. The ideal time is anywhere between 28-34 weeks. Women are usually feeling their best in the 7-8 month range. Everyone is different so the ideal time really depends on your belly and how you’re feeling. Some women show much earlier and will choose to come in at 28 weeks. Others show less and will wait until 34 weeks or so. Your belly should be nice and round, but you shouldn’t be too far along that you’re uncomfortable. We sometimes do poses that require you to lay on the floor and I want to make sure that we are not putting a strain on your body. As a mom of 3, I remember how difficult it was to even get up out of a chair toward the end of my pregnancy! I want to make sure you’re fully comfortable so you can feel your best.
Toward the end of pregnancy, some women tend to swell a bit as they begin to retain water and there is also a lot of pressure on your feet. The baby is growing very fast at this point so your body will change from one week to the next. So it’s best to have your photos taken a least a month prior to your due date. But if you’ve waited until the last minute, we will never turn you away. Just give us a call and we’ll get you scheduled as soon as possible. We’ve had moms deliver 2 days after their maternity sessions!
Keep in mind to eat and hydrate before your session. We always have snacks and drinks available for you as well. I don’t recommend scheduling other appointments the day of your session as you can get tired and may want to go home and relax when we’re done. The session usually takes about an hour or so but I suggest not scheduling any appointments close to your maternity session in case we need some extra time.
I always recommend professional hair and makeup for your maternity photos. We can provide that for you or you can choose to have it done on your own with your preferred hair and makeup artist. This is an important touch to make you feel your absolute best for these photos.
Please let us know if you have any medical issues or if you are on bed rest. We can schedule a beautiful lifestyle session in your home with minimal movements that will not stress your body or baby. It is important that we are aware of any medical or physical restrictions.
For more info on our maternity sessions please visit our maternity gallery.
