Your Magical Maternity Session: The Perfect Timing

Hey there, beautiful mama-to-be! First of all, congratulations on your pregnancy! As a maternity photographer in the Baltimore area, I have had the privilege of capturing the incredible journey of so many expectant mothers like yourself. This unique time of transformation and anticipation is truly magical, and I’m thrilled you’re considering a maternity session to create lasting memories of this special moment in your life. But when is the best time to do a maternity session? Allow me to guide you!

Why 30-34 Weeks is the Sweet Spot

Every pregnancy is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for when to schedule your maternity portrait session. However, after working with numerous mamas-to-be, I’ve found that 30-34 weeks is the ideal time for most women. Let me share some reasons why:

Energy

At 30-34 weeks, your baby bump is large and prominent, but you’re still comfortable enough to move around and strike those picture-perfect poses. As your pregnancy progresses, it might become increasingly difficult to find comfortable positions. By the end of the third trimester, many women experience increased discomfort and reduced mobility, making it challenging to stand or sit for long periods. At 30-34 weeks, however, most women still have plenty of energy to spare (and maybe even some dance moves to show off!).

Baby Bump

Prior to 30 weeks, your belly may not have fully rounded out. Waiting until later in pregnancy can ensure a baby bump that is more pronounced and visually appealing for portraits. During this time, your baby hasn’t dropped yet, which means your belly is still high and round, creating a beautiful and distinctive silhouette. When your baby drops around 36 weeks, your belly can appear lower and flatter, potentially changing the desired look for your maternity photos. So, let’s capture that perfect round bump while it’s in its prime!

Excitement and Emotion

Between 30-34 weeks, you’re likely overflowing with excitement and anticipation. You’ve probably had your second trimester ultrasound, seen your baby’s adorable features, and felt those tiny kicks and movements. You’ve been working on the nursery, organizing baby supplies, and possibly having a baby shower! A maternity session during this time can capture all the emotions and joy you’re experiencing. 

Flexibility & Planning

Scheduling your session for 30-34 weeks allows some wiggle room for changes in your pregnancy or unexpected life events. If your baby decides to make an early entrance, we can still have your session before the big day. And if you need to reschedule for any reason, there’s room for that too.

The Pregnancy Glow

At 30-34 weeks, you’re still feeling like yourself, but with the added radiance of pregnancy. You’re through morning sickness and the awkward ‘it looks like I’ve gained weight, not that I’m pregnant” phase. Many women experience a boost in confidence during this time, and a maternity session can capture this beauty, confidence, and glow. Trust me, you’ll want to remember just how stunning you looked during this special time!

Exceptions: Twins, Triplets, and High-Risk Pregnancies

If you’re expecting multiples or have a high-risk pregnancy, I’d recommend scheduling your maternity session during your second trimester, around 28-32 weeks. Your baby bump will be more noticeable, and you’ll still be feeling good and mobile enough to pose and move around. Keep in mind that multiple pregnancies and high-risk pregnancies often result in earlier deliveries, so plan accordingly!

Is it Too Late?

It’s never too late to capture the beauty of your pregnancy! If you didn’t schedule a maternity session in advance, don’t worry. As long as you’re feeling comfortable and mobile, I’m more than happy to work with you to get your session scheduled. The most important thing is that you have beautiful photos of this important time in your life.

Let’s Capture Your Unique Journey

In conclusion, scheduling your maternity session around 30-34 weeks allows for the perfect blend of energy, baby bump roundness, excitement, flexibility, and that gorgeous pregnancy glow. I’m Angela, a maternity photographer in the Baltimore and DMV areas, and I’d be honored to capture your unique journey into motherhood. Feel free to reach out, and let’s chat about when the best time would be for your maternity session! I can’t wait to work with you! Learn more here!

And looking ahead, feel free to check out this post about my newborn sessions: www.angelasingleton.com/blog/newborn-portrait-experience