When is the Absolutely Perfect Time to Take Maternity Photos?
One of the first things my clients ask is when they should take their maternity photos. The simple answer is 30-36 weeks. It’s important to remember though, that it takes time to plan your session. Also, because the window is only a month, you’ll want to book sooner rather than later. Read below to learn more about when to book and when to have your maternity session.
Why between 30 and 36 weeks?
At this point, your bump is prominent. So in a maternity photographs, it will be clear you're pregnant. This is also before you reach full term. You want to avoid a maternity session at full term for a couple of reasons:
You will be uncomfortable in those last few weeks
You can go into labor at any point after reaching full term. And once that baby comes, the opportunity for maternity photos is gone.
Both of the above points are important. The look of discomfort does come through in photographs. And maternity poses can be a bit tricky when your center of gravity is off. We also want to make sure that we're not doing anything to induce early labor. Maternity sessions involve a lot of movement, which can move things along if you're close.
Pregnant with Multiples
Another factor to consider is how many babies are in that belly. When you're expecting multiples, of course the time frame needs to adjust. It means that your bump will be more prominent earlier and you’ll be less comfortable earlier as well. Typically we can move things up a month or so. But it really does depend upon your pregnancy and if we’re talking about twins or triplets.
High-risk Pregnancies
Not every pregnancy is smooth sailing. A high risk pregnancy can affect your timing. You may need to schedule the session earlier. Or it may just put limitations on the location of the maternity session. Speak with your medical provider first to determine the best course of action. Based on what they recommend, you might need to adjust your schedule. Or you may not. It is all very individual.
When booking your maternity photographer, I recommend bringing up any medical related concerns. It is helpful for us to know, so we can keep the session as safe as possible.
When is the best time to Book Your Maternity Photographer
You should book sooner rather than later. The longer you wait, the less likely your first choice photographer will be available. Maternity photography is not as flexible as family photography. If you need to postpone a family photo shoot to later, it usually isn't that big of a deal. You don't have that luxury with maternity photo sessions. For pregnancy photos, you want to make sure you're taking the pictures at the best time for your pregnancy.
You should book your maternity photographer no later than your second trimester. This means that you’ll still have your choice of photographers and session times and dates.
Maternity and Newborn Sessions
If you want to book a newborn session with the same photographer, bring it up as soon as possible. Newborn sessions, due to their need for flexibility, can be even more difficult to book with a photographer. For example, I take half as many newborn sessions as I do maternity sessions because the flexibility a newborn session requires means I can’t book as many.
Sara Herkes is a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Longmont, CO. She serves the the Denver Metro Area, the Colorado Rockies, and the Northern Front Range and captures your pregnancy amidst the Colorado wilderness. Learn more about her services here.
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