If you're expecting, one of the most common questions is: when should I book maternity photos?
The timing matters more than most people think — both for how your photos look and how comfortable you feel during the session.
When should you book maternity photography?
We recommend booking your maternity session during your second trimester or early third trimester.
This gives you time to:
- secure your preferred date
- plan your session without feeling rushed
- coordinate your maternity and newborn photography session
What is the best time for maternity photos?
The ideal time for maternity photography is usually between 28 and 34 weeks.
At this stage:
- your bump is beautifully round and visible
- you’re still comfortable enough to move and pose
- you haven’t reached the more physically tiring final weeks
This balance helps create the most flattering and relaxed maternity portraits.
What if I’m earlier or later than this?
Every pregnancy is different, and we always adapt to you.
If you’re earlier (20–27 weeks):
You can still create soft, elegant images — especially if this is your preference or if your bump shows earlier.
If you’re later (35+ weeks):
We can still photograph your session, but comfort becomes more important and movement may be more limited.
If you're unsure, it's always best to get in touch so we can guide you.
Why timing matters more than people expect
Maternity photography isn’t just about capturing your bump — it’s about how you feel during the session.
The right timing helps you feel:
- comfortable and relaxed
- confident in your body
- able to enjoy the experience instead of pushing through it
That’s what creates natural, connected images rather than forced poses.
Should I book maternity and newborn together?
Yes — many families choose to plan both at the same time.
This allows you to:
- secure both sessions in advance
- create a consistent style across both shoots
- capture the full journey from pregnancy to newborn
You can explore our maternity photography in Auckland and newborn sessions together when planning.
How booking works at Photo Hive
- Choose your session timing during pregnancy
- We help guide you on the ideal week
- Your session is planned to feel calm and unhurried
Ready to book your maternity session?
If you’re currently expecting, now is the perfect time to secure your maternity session and plan something meaningful before your baby arrives.