When’s the Best Time to Take Maternity Photos? A Stress-Free Guide for Moms-to-Be. The Sweet Spot: 28 to 34 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and transformative seasons of life, and capturing it with maternity photos is a memory you’ll cherish forever. But let’s be real: pregnancy is also a lot. Between the excitement, the body changes, and the countdown to baby, finding the right time for photos can feel overwhelming. So, when should you book your maternity session to feel your best?

Here’s everything you need to know! The Sweet Spot is 28 to 34 Weeks Pregnant, and here is why.

The Sweet Spot: 28 to 34 Weeks Pregnant

The golden window for maternity photos is usually between 28 and 34 weeks. At this stage:

• Your bump is beautifully round and noticeable

• You still have enough energy to move around

• Discomfort, swelling, and fatigue are usually still manageable

• Baby hasn’t dropped too low yet, so your bump is still nice and high for photos

This window allows you to fully embrace the glow and beauty of pregnancy, without feeling too uncomfortable or exhausted.

Why Not Wait Until the Very End?

By the time you reach 35+ weeks, many mamas start to feel:

• Swollen and overheated

• Low energy or less mobile

• Anxious and just ready for baby to arrive!

While we can still shoot gorgeous photos at 36+ weeks, it's important to be honest with how you’re feeling. If you’re already feeling uncomfortable or dealing with Braxton Hicks contractions, it might be harder to enjoy the session — and that can show in the final images.

When to Book Your Session

If you're planning your maternity session with a photographer, be sure to book around 20–24 weeks to secure your spot. That gives you the flexibility to plan for the best weather, lighting, and location options — and get the time frame you really want!

Pro Tips for a Comfortable, Beautiful Shoot

• Choose breathable, comfy outfits that highlight your bump (think flowy dresses, soft knits, or form-fitting gowns that stretch)

• Book your session in the early morning or golden hour evening — perfect light and cooler temps

• Bring water, a snack, and comfy shoes for walking between photo spots

• Don’t stress about posing — your photographer will guide you every step of the way to make you feel confident and radiant

  
  

Let’s Capture the Glow (Without the Stress)

Maternity photos aren’t just about documenting the bump — they’re about celebrating the strength, beauty, and joy of this season. You deserve to feel relaxed, radiant, and supported during your session.

If you're in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and ready to book a maternity shoot that feels as easy and beautiful as it looks, I’d love to chat! Contact me today to reserve your spot during that perfect window — and let’s create something magical together.

Maternity photo during golden hour

Maternity photo with women hold a baby duck on her baby bump.