Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and transformative seasons of a woman’s life—and maternity photos are the perfect way to capture that glow, strength, and anticipation. One of the most common questions I get at Little Legacies Studio is, “When should I book my maternity photos?” While every mama’s journey is unique, there’s a sweet spot where you’ll feel radiant, comfortable, and ready to celebrate your bump in front of the camera.

The Best Time to Schedule Your Maternity Session

The ideal time to book your maternity photo session is between 28 and 34 weeks (around the 7th to 8th month of pregnancy). During this window, your belly has a beautiful round shape that photographs perfectly, but you’re still able to move comfortably and enjoy the experience. Every pregnancy is different, though—if you’re carrying multiples or experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, it’s best to schedule earlier, around 24 to 28 weeks, to ensure you feel your best.

Why Timing Matters

Booking too early can mean your bump isn’t fully visible yet, while waiting too long might leave you feeling tired, swollen, or limited in mobility. The goal is to find that perfect balance where you feel confident, glowing, and still have the energy to enjoy your shoot. Your maternity photos are about celebrating your strength and beauty, not just documenting your pregnancy—so the more comfortable and relaxed you feel, the more natural and radiant your images will be.

When to Book with Your Photographer

Because maternity sessions are such a special and time-sensitive milestone, I always recommend booking your session early—around the beginning of your second trimester. This ensures you’ll have plenty of time to plan your wardrobe, secure your ideal date, and discuss styling details with your photographer. Little Legacies Studio books a limited number of sessions each month to provide every client with personalized attention, so reserving early helps guarantee your spot.

Planning for Your Ideal Setting

Once your session is booked, we’ll talk about location and style. Some mamas love the soft, natural light of an outdoor sunset session surrounded by desert landscapes or open fields, while others prefer the cozy intimacy of our Phoenix studio. Each setting offers a different tone—outdoor photos are airy and romantic, while studio portraits highlight timeless elegance and focus on emotion and connection. No matter your choice, we’ll create a look that reflects you.

What to Wear and How to Prepare

Wardrobe plays a big role in creating those dreamy, ethereal maternity images. Flowing gowns, soft knits, lace textures, and neutral tones always photograph beautifully. At Little Legacies Studio, clients have access to a curated wardrobe of designer maternity dresses, carefully chosen to flatter every body type. I also offer styling guidance to help you coordinate your look with your session’s mood and setting. Before your session, make sure to stay hydrated, get a good night’s rest, and eat something light so you feel comfortable and confident throughout the shoot.

Include Your Partner or Family

Many mamas choose to include their partner or older children in their maternity photos, turning the session into a family moment filled with love and connection. The 28–34 week window works beautifully for this since everyone is excited and comfortable, and you can still lift or hold little ones if needed. These family images often become some of the most cherished keepsakes, representing the anticipation and joy of welcoming a new baby.

Don’t Forget to Plan Ahead for Newborn Photos

If you’re thinking about newborn portraits too (and you should—they’re priceless!), booking them at the same time as your maternity session is a great idea. Newborn photos are typically taken within the first two weeks after birth, so scheduling both early ensures a seamless experience and priority availability.

Capture Your Story with Little Legacies Studio

Pregnancy passes in the blink of an eye—but your maternity photos will preserve this beautiful chapter forever. The best time to book is when your heart says yes and your body feels ready, typically between 28 and 34 weeks. At Little Legacies Studio, we specialize in creating elegant, emotional maternity portraits that celebrate the beauty of motherhood in every stage.
Contact Little Legacies Studio in Phoenix, Arizona, today to reserve your maternity session and capture the magic of your pregnancy in timeless, breathtaking images.