If you are pregnant and thinking about maternity photos, one of the first questions you probably have is simple:

When should I schedule my session?

I’ve been photographing maternity portraits in Seattle since 1999, here’s what I can tell you with total confidence: timing matters, and choosing the right window makes your experience easier, more comfortable, and more likely to result in the kind of images you will love for the rest of your life.

Below is my guide to the best time to schedule maternity photos, plus answers to the most common questions I hear from clients every week.

Quick answer: The best time for maternity photos is 28 to 36 weeks

In most pregnancies, the ideal time to schedule maternity portraits is between 28 and 36 weeks.

Here’s why:

By 28 weeks, most people have a clearly defined baby bump that photographs beautifully.
In the early third trimester, most clients still feel comfortable enough to stand, shift poses, and move around without feeling wiped out.
Waiting too late can add unnecessary stress if baby decides to arrive early.

If you want the simplest rule to follow, it is this: Aim for 28–36 weeks, and try not to wait past week 36.

Why I recommend 28 to 36 weeks for most clients

You get a beautiful bump that looks great on camera

Most clients are visibly pregnant by 28 weeks, which means we can create images that clearly show pregnancy in a flattering way.

You are usually more comfortable than you will be later

By the last few weeks of pregnancy, many people experience more swelling, more fatigue, and less stamina for standing poses. You can absolutely still do photos later, but it often requires more breaks and more modifications.

You reduce the risk of missing the window entirely

Babies are considered term at 37 weeks. Many deliveries happen around 40–41 weeks, but it is not uncommon to go into labor earlier. If you wait until 37 or 38 weeks to schedule, you may be cutting it close.

Should I schedule maternity photos closer to my due date?

Some clients love the look of a very full bump and want to schedule closer to their due date. That can be beautiful, and I understand the appeal.

If that is you, my recommendation is still the same: schedule before week 36.

It gives you the best chance of:

Feeling well during the session
Making sure you do not miss portraits altogether if baby arrives early

When to schedule maternity photos if you are having twins or multiples

If you are carrying twins or multiples, I recommend scheduling between 24 and 32 weeks, depending on how you feel.

Multiples often arrive earlier, and pregnancy can become physically demanding sooner. The earlier window helps protect your comfort and your schedule.

I’m a twin mom myself and delivered my babies at 36 weeks.

A good guideline for multiple:

24–28 weeks: if you are already feeling uncomfortable, or your doctor is watching you closely for preterm labor
28–32 weeks: if you feel good and want a fuller bump

How far in advance should you book maternity photos?

If you have a specific time window in mind, I recommend booking as soon as you enter your second trimester, even if your session will not happen until later.

Why? The most popular times on my calendar tend to fill first, especially:

Weekends
Late spring and early fall
Holiday-adjacent weeks

If you are planning to schedule your session around 28–36 weeks, booking early gives you the best choice of dates.

Follow this link to my get on my calendar.

What if I am already past 36 weeks?

First, take a breath. You have not missed your chance.

If you are past 36 weeks, you can still do maternity portraits. We just approach it differently:

Keep poses simple and comfortable
Build in more breaks
Focus on your best angles with minimal movement
Prioritize safety and how you feel in the moment

If you are very close to your due date, I typically recommend scheduling as soon as possible.

A note on comfort and safety during maternity sessions

I am not a medical professional, but after working with pregnant women for decades, I can tell you this:

Pregnancy can be unpredictable. Some poses can trigger sciatic pain or discomfort, and dehydration can also make you feel unwell.

During your session, I will always encourage you to:

Speak up if something feels uncomfortable
Take breaks whenever you need them
Drink water
Avoid locking your knees while standing

A maternity session should feel calm, supported, and safe. I’ve been working with pregnant women for a long time, and will help guide you into safe and comfortable poses.

Seattle-specific tip: A studio makes timing easier

Seattle weather is real. If you are planning an outdoor session, you will most likely be planning around rain, wind, and cold a good portion of the year.

This is one reason I love studio maternity portraits. A studio session means:

No weather stress
No rescheduling because of rain
Consistent, beautiful light
A comfortable environment

If you are curious about my approach, you can visit my Seattle maternity photographer page to see the style of portraits I create and what a session looks like.

Key takeaways

Best time for maternity photos: 28–36 weeks
Do not wait past week 36 if you can avoid it
Multiples: plan for 24–32 weeks
Booking early gives you the best calendar options
Comfort and safety always matter more than a pose

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best week to take maternity photos?

For most pregnancies, the best time is between 28 and 36 weeks.

Is 32 weeks too early for maternity photos?

Not at all. 32 weeks is often perfect because your bump is clearly visible and many people still feel relatively comfortable.

Is 37 weeks too late for maternity photos?

It can be risky because babies are considered term at 37 weeks and may arrive any time. If you are already 37 weeks, schedule as soon as you can and plan for a shorter, more relaxed session.

When should I schedule maternity photos with twins?

I recommend 24–32 weeks depending on your comfort and your pregnancy.

How far in advance should I book?

Ideally, book in your second trimester so you have the best choice of dates in your ideal 28–36 week window.

Ready to plan your session?

If you are in the Seattle area and want timeless, simple maternity portraits that honor this moment, you can learn more by following this link.

And if you are planning to photograph your baby after they arrive, you might also like more information on my newborn photography services.

When to Schedule Maternity Photos in Seattle: The Best Time to Book