You’re expecting a baby, and a key question comes up: when to schedule maternity photos? This is common among moms-to-be who want to capture the right moment. Choosing the best time for pregnancy photos matters â you want images where your belly looks beautiful and you feel comfortable. As a maternity photographer in Barcelona with over five years of experience, I’m sharing everything you need to know to pick the ideal time for your pregnancy photoshoot.
The ideal time: When to schedule maternity photos?
The big question: when to schedule maternity photos? After photographing hundreds of pregnant women, I can tell you that the best time for pregnancy photos is between weeks 28 and 34. Many moms aren’t sure exactly when to do their maternity photoshoot, but this window is perfect for capturing your belly at its best. If you’re considering a maternity photo session in Barcelona, several factors help capture this moment right.
I recommend scheduling your pregnancy photoshoot between weeks 28 and 32, when your belly is at its most photogenic — round and defined, but you still feel energetic. — Tami, maternity photographer
Why does this timing matter? For several reasons: If you want to document this special time, there are many ways to create beautiful pregnancy photos that capture this stage.
- Your belly is visible and photogenic: From week 28 onwards, most pregnant women have a well-defined, round belly that looks beautiful in photos.
- You feel good physically: You’re not overly tired yet, and you haven’t hit the discomfort that can show up in the final weeks.
- Lower risk of surprises: Scheduling your maternity photos before weeks 35-36 reduces the chance of having to cancel due to early labor or bedrest ordered by your doctor.
Every pregnancy is different
Remember that each pregnancy is different. If you’re expecting twins, for example, it may be better to schedule your pregnancy photoshoot around weeks 26-27, since your belly usually grows faster and fatigue can set in earlier.
“With multiple pregnancies, your belly grows faster and delivery often comes early. In those cases I recommend scheduling your maternity photos even earlier, around weeks 26-27.” — Tami
In second or third pregnancies, your belly typically shows earlier, so you could also schedule your pregnancy photos sooner if you prefer.
Signs it’s the right time
Beyond counting weeks, there are signs that tell you it’s a good time for your maternity photoshoot:
- Your belly has a defined, round shape
- You still have energy to enjoy the session
- No excessive water retention or swelling
- You feel comfortable in your body and want to celebrate this moment
- Emotionally, you’re ready to enjoy this experience
Factors to consider when choosing your pregnancy photo date
1. Your physical and emotional wellbeing
What matters most when deciding when to schedule maternity photos is how you feel. The recommended weeks may not work best for you for various reasons. Listen to your body and pick a time when you feel good physically and emotionally.
2. The season
In Barcelona we enjoy Mediterranean weather that allows outdoor photo sessions much of the year. However, if your heart is set on a beach session, avoid the coldest months or the hottest summer days, which could be uncomfortable. Besides pregnancy photos, many families also schedule Christmas studio sessions for another keepsake.
3. The session style you want
The type of session you want can affect the ideal timing:
- Studio sessions: Offer more control and comfort, ideal throughout pregnancy.
- Outdoor sessions: Natural light and open settings are beautiful, but require considering the weather and your energy level.
- More artistic or nude sessions: Usually work best when your belly has a defined shape but isn’t too large.
4. If you include other people
If you want your partner, other children, or even pets in the photos, you also need to consider their schedules and availability.
What happens if I wait too long?
Sometimes moms-to-be decide on photos when they’re already far along in pregnancy. If you’re past week 35, don’t worry â we can still create a beautiful session! Just keep in mind:
- You may feel more tired
- You might have more water retention or swelling
- Posing options may be more limited
- There’s a higher chance baby arrives early
What if I want to document the whole pregnancy?
If you want to track your pregnancy’s progression, there are several options:
Option 1: Monthly tracking sessions
Some moms-to-be choose a short session each month to document their belly’s growth, culminating with a fuller session at the ideal time. It’s a lovely option that lets you see the progression month by month.
Option 2: Main session + newborn session
This is one of the most popular options: doing a pregnancy photoshoot at the optimal time and following it with a newborn session in baby’s first days. In fact, at Wonderstory I offer special packages that combine both sessions at a discount.
“After your pregnancy photoshoot, you can also book a session with your baby. If you do your maternity photos with me, you’ll get a special discount on your newborn photos.” — Tami
Comparison: When to schedule maternity photos by pregnancy type?
| Pregnancy type | Recommended weeks | Special considerations |
|---|---|---|
| First pregnancy | 28-34 weeks | Belly usually shows later, can wait until weeks 30-32 |
| Second or later | 26-32 weeks | Belly shows earlier and body changes can appear faster |
| Multiple pregnancy | 26-30 weeks | Larger belly growth, more fatigue, higher chance of early delivery |
| High-risk pregnancy | Consult your doctor | Schedule according to medical recommendations and personal wellbeing |
Preparing for your pregnancy photoshoot
Once you’ve chosen the ideal date for your session, there are a few things to consider to make everything go smoothly:
The ideal wardrobe
Your clothing choice is key to highlighting your pregnancy’s beauty. For your maternity photos I recommend:
- Long, flowing dresses: Add movement and elegance to the images
- Clothes that highlight your belly: Fabrics that fit your shape without being tight
- Soft or neutral colors: Whites, beiges, pastels, or earth tones that enhance maternity’s natural beauty
- Lace and light fabrics: Add a romantic, delicate touch
At Wonderstory I provide selected dresses and fabrics to highlight maternity’s beauty, so don’t worry about finding special clothing.
Physical preparation
To look your best in your session, some practical tips:
- Stay well hydrated in the days before
- Avoid applying creams to your belly on photo day (they can create unwanted shine)
- Take care of your nails, as your hands will be featured on your belly
- Get good rest the night before
- Choose seamless underwear to avoid marks on your skin
The emotional benefits of a pregnancy session
Beyond the physical keepsake of the photos, a pregnancy photoshoot has important emotional benefits:
- Celebrate this unique time in your life
- Strengthen the bond with your baby and partner
- Build confidence in your changing body
- Create a lasting memory to share with your child in the future
- Lets you pause and connect with your pregnancy amid the busy preparations
“I want you to leave stress outside the studio and have your pregnancy photoshoot be comfortable and just as you imagine it. I’ll be with you like a friend, guiding you through everything.” — Tami
Studio or outdoor session?
A common question is whether it’s better to do the maternity photos in studio or outdoors. Both options have advantages:
Studio session advantages:
- More privacy and intimacy
- Full control of lighting and temperature
- Not dependent on weather conditions
- Easy outfit changes
- Ideal for more artistic photos or semi-nude shots
- More comfort for the mom-to-be
Outdoor session advantages:
- Natural light that adds warmth
- Natural settings that add beauty
- More spontaneous, relaxed atmosphere
- Connection with nature
- Ability to include landscape elements
At Wonderstory I offer both options, so we can adapt the maternity photos to your preferences.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely. If your belly is already visible and you feel comfortable, we can do the photos earlier. Especially in second pregnancies, the belly usually shows sooner.
While not ideal, we can adapt the photos to your physical state. We’ll use more comfortable poses and a calmer session so you don’t get tired.
Absolutely! Family sessions are beautiful. Having your partner and older siblings creates emotional images and lasting memories for everyone.
At Wonderstory I have maternity-specific wardrobe available, but you can always bring something special you particularly like or feel comfortable in.
Yes, it’s recommended. Booking at least a month in advance ensures availability during the ideal period for your session. This is especially important if you have a specific date in mind.
Don’t worry at all. As a professional maternity photographer, my job is to guide you through the entire session. I’ll help you with poses and make you feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
Conclusion: The best time for pregnancy photos is when you feel ready
Remember that every woman and pregnancy is different. The best time for your maternity photoshoot is when you feel comfortable and ready to celebrate this beautiful stage.
It’s not just about capturing a belly
