When Is the Best Time to Book a Maternity Photoshoot? (And Why You're Probably Leaving It Too Late)
I'm going to tell you something that a lot of photographers don't say out loud: most mums leave booking their maternity photoshoot too late. Not because they don't want one - they absolutely do - but because pregnancy is busy and overwhelming, and it's easy to keep telling yourself you'll get around to it.
And then suddenly you're 37 weeks, your photographer is booked out, and you've missed the window.
So let's talk about timing - the honest, practical version - so that doesn't happen to you.
The Sweet Spot: 28–34 Weeks
The most common question I get from expectant mums is "how many weeks should I be for my maternity photos?" The short answer is: somewhere between 28 and 34 weeks.
Here's why that window works so well:
Your bump is full and beautifully round. At 28 weeks and beyond, your belly has that gorgeous, unmistakable shape that photographs so beautifully. Before about 26 weeks, bumps can look smaller than you expect in photos - especially in clothing.
You still feel like yourself. By 34–35 weeks, many women are starting to feel quite uncomfortable - sore hips, swollen feet, trouble sleeping. At 28–33 weeks, most mums still have good energy and feel comfortable enough to enjoy a couple of hours outdoors.
You have flexibility if we need to reschedule. If the weather is terrible or you're having a rough week, you still have time to move the session.
What If You're Having Twins or a High-Risk Pregnancy?
If you're expecting twins or your pregnancy is being monitored closely, I'd suggest booking earlier - around 25–28 weeks is often better, as twins typically arrive sooner and bumps grow faster.
Chat to your midwife or OB about what feels right for your body. I'm happy to work around whatever timing makes sense for you medically.
When Should You Book (Not Just Shoot)?
This is where a lot of people come unstuck.
You might be planning to have your shoot at 30 weeks - but if you wait until you're 29 weeks to enquire, there's a good chance your preferred photographer is already booked out.
My honest recommendation: enquire as soon as you decide you want a maternity session. That might be at 10 weeks. That might be at 18 weeks. The earlier you get in touch, the more flexibility we have around choosing the perfect date, location, and time of day for your shoot.
Popular times of year - particularly spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) in Sydney - book out months in advance.
What About Newborn Photography - Can I Book That at the Same Time?
Yes - and I'd encourage it. Newborn sessions happen in the first 5–14 days after birth, and that window goes fast. If you're planning both a maternity and newborn shoot, booking them together (even as a provisional enquiry) means you're not scrambling when baby arrives.
Does the Season Matter?
It does, a little. Sydney is beautiful year-round, but different seasons offer different things:
Summer (Dec–Feb): Long evenings and glorious golden light - sessions that start around 6:30–7pm are magical. Can be very hot mid-pregnancy, so we keep sessions to cooler parts of the day.
Autumn (Mar–May): My personal favourite for outdoor maternity sessions. The light is soft and warm, temperatures are perfect, and the autumn colours add something special to parkland sessions.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Crisp, clear light and less crowded beaches and parks. Sydney winters are mild enough to shoot outdoors comfortably - just bring a light layer.
Spring (Sep–Nov): Everything is in bloom, the light is beautiful, and everyone wants to shoot outside. My spring diary fills up quickly - if you're due in October or November, enquire early.
A Quick Timeline to Help You Plan
You find out you're pregnant: Start following photographers whose work you love.
12–16 weeks: Decide whether you'd like a maternity session. Start enquiring with photographers.
18–22 weeks: Book your session and secure your date. (Sooner is fine too.)
25–28 weeks: Confirm your location, discuss styling, receive your prep guide.
28–34 weeks: Shoot!
Any time before birth: Enquire about newborn availability if you'd like a shoot after baby arrives.
The Most Common Thing I Hear
"I wish I'd booked sooner."
I hear this more than almost anything else. Mums who booked early are relaxed - they've planned their outfit, we've scouted the location, and the shoot feels like a gift to themselves. Mums who left it to the last minute are stressed, and that stress shows in photos.
You deserve to have this experience feel special and unhurried. That starts with a bit of planning.
Ready to Lock in Your Date?
If you're pregnant and even vaguely thinking about a maternity photoshoot in Sydney, now is the right time to get in touch - even if you're only 14 weeks. We can have a relaxed chat, hold a tentative date, and plan the session around your due date and your style.
Enquire about your maternity session →
FAQ
Is 36 weeks too late for maternity photos?
It depends on how you're feeling. Some mums feel great at 36 weeks; others are very uncomfortable. If you're feeling well, we can absolutely make it work - but the earlier you book, the better chance we have of fitting you in comfortably.
What if I go into labour before my shoot?
It happens! If you have a baby before we get to your maternity session, we can pivot to a newborn or fresh-48 shoot instead. We'll figure it out together.
How long does a maternity session take?
Usually 1–2 hours, depending on the package and location. I never rush - we move at a pace that feels good for you.
Can I bring my partner and children?
Absolutely. Many of my maternity sessions include the full family, and some of the most beautiful moments happen between mum and a toddler sibling.
