Updated at: 08-09-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

When to take maternity pictures is explored in this article. There is still another aspect of pregnancy that will be covered. What is the best time for a pregnant woman to have her maternity pictures taken?

When to Take Maternity Photos

New York City photographers suggest scheduling a maternity shoot between the 28th and 36th week of pregnancy. As late as the eighth month, but no sooner. Third trimester is prime time for showing off that pregnancy bump!

When to Take Maternity Photos - ShootProof Blog

During the 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant parent is more likely to be able to stand or pose comfortably for photos, making it easier for them to do so. At this time in their pregnancies, your customers can proudly display their growing bellies.

Holding a Maternity Photo Session Earlier Than 36 Weeks

This is one of the rare times when breaking the rules about taking maternity photos is acceptable. Even if there is a suggested timeline for taking maternity photos, there may be cases in which it is OK to do so early, as each woman’s body changes at a distinct pace during pregnancy.

  • If your client is expecting multiple children, don’t put off planning their maternity photo shoot until the third trimester, even if their due date is still weeks away.
  • As a result of medical advancements, more people are able to delay having children until later in life, leading to an increase in the number of high-risk pregnancies. Even though most high-risk pregnancies end up being perfectly healthy, the best time to take pregnancy pictures is during the second trimester.
  • Taken no later than the beginning of the third trimester, or around weeks 27 to 28 of pregnancy, maternity pictures can be used in announcements and other printed documents for the family. If you need things done more rapidly, you should change the timeline accordingly.

Maternity Photo Session Tips

Photographers who want to showcase their clients’ curves and growing bellies in maternity shoots need to employ a combination of technical and creative skills.

Help the Mother Prepare for the Maternity Session

Scheduling the maternity shoot for a time that works best for your client is essential.

Always remind expecting mothers to obtain enough of rest so they can feel comfortable moving around and to moisturize their bellies for smooth, healthy skin. During their pregnancy, it is important that they not wear anything overly restrictive to their photo shoot. It might leave unsightly marks on your maternity photos that are tough to edit off.

Essential preparation for pregnancy includes assembling a wardrobe that supports your changing body. Clothes should always be chosen to accentuate the subject’s figure rather than hide it. Avoid busy designs and instead focus on using solid colors.

No matter how far along in their pregnancies they are, pregnant women should feel and look their best for family photos.

Use the Proper Equipment

The Rainiers specialize in pregnancy photography and use Canon and Profoto gear. What you should do to have a fantastic maternity photo shoot, according to the experts:

  • An EOS 5D Mark III from Canon
  • The B2 and A1 from Profoto.
  • That would be the 35mm f/1.4
  • A 24-70mm lens with an aperture of 2.8 or higher for use in close-up macro photography

Keep Your Customers Coming Back For More!

Albums and framed photos are the Rainiers’ most sought-after photography merchandise.

Photographers may do their customers and themselves a favor by educating them on how to take simple yet beautiful pregnancy and family photos.

After the baby is born and the doctor gives the newborn’s medical clearance, the photographer can go on to taking newborn portraits. It’s important to document special family moments with photographs.

When is the best time to take maternity photos?

Photographers who specialize in maternity sessions often get asked when is ideal to take pictures. First, I should clarify that the optimal time to give birth will vary from woman to woman, but I will provide some general recommendations that should help you determine when that optimal moment would be for you.

What trimester is best to book a maternity photo session?

It is recommended that maternity photo sessions take place between the 26th and 34th weeks of pregnancy (around the 7th and 8th month of pregnancy). At the end of the third trimester, your belly will have a more rounded shape. This may take more time for some people than others. If this is your first pregnancy, you can safely schedule your appointment toward the end of the window. If you’ve given birth before, you can schedule your session earlier on in the pregnancy, as you’ll likely start showing earlier.

When should I schedule my maternity session if I’m having twins?

Your menstruation will arrive earlier than usual if you’re expecting twins. You should schedule your pregnancy photo shoot earlier if you’re expecting twins than if you’re only having one baby. Maternity pictures with twins are best scheduled between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy.

Is 35 weeks too late for maternity pictures?

In addition to making movement more challenging, this could also make your experience less pleasant overall. This is why I suggest setting up your appointment before that time. Still, it goes without saying that we’re all unique people. Before she was even 39 weeks pregnant, one of my clients booked me for her maternity photoshoot! If you’ve put off getting your shot because you didn’t want to commit, all hope is not lost. Regardless of the repercussions, it is preferable to complete tasks late rather than not at all. You should consult your photographer for advice on finding a location that doesn’t need too much walking.

Is 25 weeks too early for maternity photos?

The inability to move freely and the general discomfort may increase at this time. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you schedule your session prior to this time. But of course, every one of us is special in our own way! One of my clients scheduled me for her maternity shoot before she was even 39 weeks along! You still have time to get your shot, even if you waited too long to do so. In spite of the potential negative outcomes, it is preferable to do tasks late rather than not at all. Ask your photographer to help you find a location where you won’t have to do too much walking.

How early do I need to schedule my maternity photographer?

It’s possible that the photographer you like will already have a full schedule for the year if you procrastinate too long. My usual recommendation is to schedule your maternity pictures after your 12-week appointment. As the fall is the busiest time of year for photographers, it is recommended that you schedule your maternity session as soon as possible if you want to have it then.

Tips for when to book maternity pictures

  • At around the time of the 26th to 34th week of pregnancy.
  • When expecting twins, it’s best to schedule your appointment a few days in advance. Around the age of 24 to 28 is a good estimate.
  • If this is your first time having a baby, you may wish to book a little later.
  • Booking ahead of time could be a good idea if this is your first pregnancy.
  • You should listen to your body to choose the best time for you to work out.
  • Long-term waiting might cause sleepiness and discomfort.
  • There won’t be much of a baby bump to capture in early pregnancy images.
  • Get in touch with your photographer to set up a maternity shoot around the time you reach 12 weeks pregnant.

Pregnant women in the Portland area who are looking for community resources will find the magazine Portland Parent to be an invaluable tool.

7 Simple Suggestions For What To Wear To Your Maternity Shoot

1. The Maxi Dress

For several reasons, including their adaptability, maxi dresses are a great wardrobe choice for pregnant photos. The most noticeable advantage is how comfortable it is. If you’re going to be taking pregnancy images for an hour or more, you should try to make yourself as as ease as possible. It is also a terrific option for expectant mothers because it looks great on them. You can draw it up against your tummy to show off your beautiful baby bump, or you can tuck it in and cover up your privates. Wearing a long dress is a great option for a photo shoot. The fabric’s fluttering in the wind gives this picture a lively sense of motion. You can never go wrong with a maxi dress for a picture shoot.

2. A Belt

Put your best midsection forward by accessorizing with a belt. The best place to begin fastening the belt is at the top of your abdomen, just below your breasts. In addition to cinching in your stomach, it will also help define your waistline by pulling in any slacks you may be wearing. Whether you’re wearing a loose or fitted shirt or dress, a belt is always a good idea. And it’s a terrific way to add a cute accent to a photo without giving it too much attention or making it look out of place.

When to Take Maternity Photos - ShootProof Blog

3. Solid Colors

Put on a belt if you want to highlight your flat stomach. The best place to begin fastening the belt is at the top of your abdomen, just below your breasts. It gives you a flatter stomach by drawing in your hips and tucking in your pants. Both loose and fitted tops and dresses benefit from the addition of a belt. Including something adorable without calling attention to itself is a common problem, and this is the answer.

4. Tight Clothing

Try highlighting your waist with a belt; it’s simple! Set the belt to the bottom of your belly button. It gives you a flatter stomach by drawing in your hips and tucking in your pants. Belts look great with every type of blouse or dress, whether they are loose or fitted. It’s a great way to show off a cute accessory in a photo without drawing too much attention to it or competing with the ensemble.

5. Go Timeless

Putting on a belt is a great way to highlight your trim waist. You should fasten the belt over your belly button. If you use this belt, you can reduce the circumference of your waist and hips, giving you a more hourglass shape. Whether it’s loose or fitted, a belt can make any outfit look more put together. Furthermore, it is a great method to add a charming touch to your photo without overthinking it or detracting from the arrangement.

6. Textured Clothing

By giving your photographs an extra layer of depth, textured apparel will make you seem beautiful in them. You can wear a lace dress with jeans, a thick knit sweater with a pair of leather boots, or an embroidered top with denim shorts. There will be more visual appeal in the final product because of the added texture from the garments. Rather than a print or pattern, it is a fantastic option.

7. Have 2 Outfits

Wearing textured clothing will add dimension and personality to your photographs. Some possible combinations of a chunky knit sweater with denim are: Including the texture of the clothing in your photographs can further enhance its beauty. A pattern or print could be replaced with this.

Maternity Poses for Beautiful Photos

Photograph Mom Alone

When taking family photos, it’s important not to leave out mom. Some of the most emotional maternity images will be of her embracing her expanding tummy.

You can give your photograph more depth and personality by having her strike a pose that highlights her greatest features. The 45-degree angle could be the key to catching her eye. This way, the outline of the bump is highlighted more than before. This is a lifesaver while the baby bump is still little.

While rubbing her belly, the infant enjoys hearing your voice. She can fake a smile and chuckle at her growing belly if she feels awkward doing it. Think about the impending birth, and get her pumped up. It will lend a more authentic atmosphere to pregnancy photographs.

Take pictures of her from all distances, both far and close. Experiment with different crop sizes once you’ve taken enough solid portraits to feel confident.

Shoot Dad With the Belly

The baby’s belly is the center of attention, but that shouldn’t mean that Dad can’t get some camera time, too. Just lay there on your back with your legs bent and your hands on your stomach. Tell him to talk to your stomach and enjoy the closeness.

One more great choice for a maternity posture is for dad to stand halfway behind mom and put his hands on her tummy. Close enough that you can see their hands but not their face is ideal. Take a portrait of the family from around mid-chest up, avoiding the mother’s face.

Force him to stare into the camera for a minute before telling him to focus on his stomach. If your dad asks you to do something, you should comply. If you make your clients feel like they are a part of the pregnancy photography session, you will be able to capture more intimate photographs.

Direct Walking Maternity Poses

Adding some motion to your maternity photos could be really effective. It also helps your customers feel comfortable opening up to you. It might be painful to stay in one position for too long, especially if you’re pregnant or carrying a kid.

There is no one right technique to walk while pregnant. Mom and Dad can take a stroll in the park hand in hand, beaming at each other the whole way. Encourage her to put a hand on her stomach on occasion.

It’s also interesting to capture a couple’s expressions as they go toward the camera and either look at each other or the lens. To increase the sense of closeness, suggest that they stroll along together.

The baby can be brought up in conversation if you like. Therefore, they will look at, and maybe even touch, the pregnant mother’s stomach. This is a great technique to ensure that your maternity images look genuine.

Shoot Silhouette Maternity Poses

Mothers who are uncomfortable being the center of attention may find comfort in silhouette maternity photographs. Pictures of you will look stunning with that flat stomach and hourglass shape. On the other hand, she need not care about how her expression appears to others.

Images of a pregnant woman’s silhouette can be taken when she is standing or seated. You can emphasize the baby bump by having her turn and show the camera one of her sides.

It’s also acceptable for the dad to join in on the belly kissing action. As a result, the scenario will have an intimate vibe, as if we are intruding on their privacy.

Use Legs and Hands to Highlight the Belly

In pregnancy pictures, the focus is naturally on the expecting mother’s tummy. Hands and legs are great tools to help maintain focus on the pregnant tummy and the couple.

You can put your hands either on top of or below your belly button. One can go above and to the side, while the other goes immediately across from it. Your client might also do what she normally does when she’s alone and rub her tummy.

Try to overlap your hands and keep your fingers close together, but not so much that it hurts your stomach.

If your mother is facing you, you can get some nice lines on her tummy by having her cross her legs. The increasing baby bump will be more visible this way than if she were to stand with her legs spread apart.

To achieve the same result while also giving her body more definition, she can adopt a variety of maternity poses by bending her knees.

Shoot Active Maternity Poses

Many expecting mothers find that physical activity and mindfulness meditation help them feel more relaxed and calm. Why not take some pictures of her pregnancy while she’s at the gym? Rapid motion is not a problem. Yoga and aerobics during pregnancy aren’t exactly thrilling.

So long as she feels comfortable doing so, suggest that the pregnant woman wears activewear that shows off her developing belly. Big exercise balls can be used to simulate the shape of a stomach.

A woman’s body has unique requirements when she is carrying a child. Women who make time for physical fitness send the message that they value their beauty.

Remember All Bodies Are Different

Since pregnancy affects each woman differently, there is no one “correct” maternity pose. However, not every pregnancy pose will be simple to execute.

Never put your customer in a difficult or unpleasant position without their explicit consent. The most beautiful pregnancy pictures are taken when the subjects are completely at ease in their poses and their environment.

It’s not hard to tell when someone is uneasy; your job is to alleviate that discomfort.

Keep in mind that you may need to use your hands, a belt, or even turn your client at an angle during certain maternity shoots in order to highlight the belly.

Let positions develop naturally to facilitate conversation. The greatest pictures are taken when the couple is relaxed and having fun.

Build up the Maternity Poses

Let the roles and interactions evolve organically if at all possible. The most endearing images are captured during joyful moments shared by the couple.

It’s best practice to allow jobs to evolve organically and foster communication amongst team members. When the couple is laughing and having a good time, the best pictures result.

Let the roles and interactions evolve organically if at all possible. Wonderful pictures are captured during times of joy and happiness.

While she is looking down, the mother receives a kiss on the temple from her husband. They might choose to use the items they brought with them or hold hands. Select both close-ups and faraway shots captured with longer lenses to create a more interesting portfolio.

You should take four or five shots of each variant to ensure you have at least one great shot.

Don’t Forget to Play and Have Fun

As cliche as it may sound, there is more to photographing a pregnant woman than just tears and hugs. In addition, you can tell your consumers to have fun with it. Get them up and moving around if they’re not already.

Have the mother start the conversation by praising the father, and then the father return the favor by praising the mother. Because of this, it’s normal to use “in-between” looks on your face. In these pictures, your customers’ personality come through, and you’ve managed to capture them at the perfect moment.

Similarly common are seated maternity postures. Put the couple in a mock couch position by having them sit on a bench together. They can both poke fun at or tickle the other in equal measure.

Pin on maternity photos

Keep Arms and Face Away From the Body

There is also a large demand for seated maternity poses. The couple should pretend to be relaxing on their couch while sitting on a bench. Each one of them can poke fun at or tease the other.

Similarly common are seated maternity postures. Put the couple in a mock couch position by having them sit on a bench together. To top it all off, they can joke and tease with one another.

It’s also becoming increasingly common to adopt seated maternity poses. Put the couple in a mock couch position by having them sit on a bench together. To top it all off, they can joke and tease with one another.

FAQs

Is 30 weeks too early for maternity pictures?

Pregnancy poses that include sitting down are also very popular. Take a seat on the bench and act like you’re relaxing with your significant other at home. To top it all off, they can joke and tease with one another.

Is 6 months too early for maternity pictures?

Maternity portraits are at their most stunning when taken between the seventh and eighth months of pregnancy, or around the 30th week. The third trimester is when your tummy will be at its most round and photogenic.

Is 32 weeks too early for maternity photos?

I take maternity pictures between the ages of 28 and 35 weeks…. We take pictures of multiples at 30 weeks. Around the 32nd week of pregnancy, you should see a definite increase in your child’s birth weight. For mothers expecting their second or third child, I often advise setting the due date between 28 and 30 weeks.

Is 27 weeks too early for maternity pictures?

But pregnant women can still enjoy maternity photo shoots if they aren’t too near to their due dates and their baby bumps are still manageable.

Is 34 weeks too late for maternity photos?

It is recommended that maternity photo sessions take place between the 26th and 34th weeks of pregnancy (around the 7th and 8th month of pregnancy). At the end of the third trimester, your belly will have a more rounded shape. This may take more time for some persons than others.

How many weeks is 7 months pregnant?

It’s more complicated to figure out how many weeks pregnant you are beyond seven months. Thus, a seven-month pregnancy can start as early as week 25 and as late as week 31.

When should you schedule newborn photos?

When Is the Ideal Time to Take Pictures of a Newborn? Photographers generally advise scheduling a newborn photo shoot within the first two weeks of your child’s life. Your infant may be most amenable to being placed in various positions within the first two weeks of their existence. Additionally, your baby does not have infant acne because it is still too early.

How do you take a pregnant belly picture?

Natural light from a window will provide beautiful photographs. Use a plain wall or background for your photo shoot. Women who are expecting should dress in a way that will seem good in every photo they take, and that will also accommodate their changing bodies. You can either use a self-timer or have a friend or family member snap the picture for you.

How do you do a pregnancy photoshoot at home?

  1. Having a sixth sense for how light behaves.
  2. Making use of a timer or a remote-controlled tripod.
  3. Pay attention to your surroundings.
  4. Wearing loose clothing can draw attention to your stomach, so opt for something more form-fitting instead.
  5. Make a list of possible suspects as a first step.
  6. Get your hair and makeup done.
  7. Ideally, you’ll want to schedule your session 6-8 weeks before it’s due.

Conclusion

The best time for a maternity photo shoot is between the 28th and 36th week of pregnancy, but any time before the due date is fine as long as the pregnant mother is mobile.