When Should You Schedule Maternity Photos?

Pregnancy is such a unique season of life.

It can feel long some days and incredibly short on others. Between doctor appointments, preparing the nursery, baby showers, and getting ready to meet your little one, the weeks seem to fly by.

One of the questions I hear most often is:

"When is the best time to schedule maternity photos?"

For most moms, I recommend planning your maternity session between 28 and 34 weeks.

During this time, your baby bump is usually beautifully visible, but you're often still comfortable enough to enjoy walking, changing locations, and moving naturally throughout your session.

Every Pregnancy Is Different

While 28–34 weeks is a great guideline, there isn't one "perfect" week that works for everyone.

Some moms carrying twins may feel more comfortable scheduling a little earlier.

Other moms feel amazing well into their third trimester and prefer to wait a bit longer.

The most important thing is choosing a time when you still feel comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.

If you're unsure, don't worry—that's exactly what I'm here to help with.

It's Never Too Early to Book

Although your session won't happen until later in your pregnancy, I recommend reaching out during your second trimester—or even earlier if you know you'd like maternity photos.

Booking ahead gives us time to choose the perfect location, plan outfits, and reserve a date that works well with your due date.

It also means one less thing to think about as your baby's arrival gets closer.

What Should You Wear?

This is probably the second most common question I receive!

The good news is that you don't have to figure it out on your own.

Flowing dresses, soft fabrics, and neutral or earth-tone colors photograph beautifully against New Mexico's landscapes, but the most important thing is choosing something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

I'll happily help you choose outfits that complement your location and photograph beautifully.

Should My Family Be Included?

Absolutely!

Some of the sweetest maternity images include partners, older siblings, and even family pets.

While we'll always capture beautiful portraits of you and your growing baby bump, I also love documenting the excitement your whole family feels as you prepare to welcome someone new.

These images tell a much bigger story than pregnancy alone—they celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for your entire family.

Kate's Tip

Many of my maternity clients also reserve their newborn session at the same time.

It's one less thing to think about once your baby arrives, and it ensures we'll have a plan in place to capture both this exciting season of anticipation and those precious first days with your little one.

Ready to Celebrate This Chapter?

Pregnancy may not always feel glamorous, but it is one of the most incredible seasons you'll ever experience.

Months from now, you'll be holding your baby in your arms.

Years from now, you'll look back at these photographs and remember the excitement, the anticipation, and the love that filled your heart before you ever met them.

I'd love to help you preserve this beautiful chapter of your family's story.