Selecting the time for a maternity photoshoot session during pregnancy is an essential decision for the mother-to-be. Recording moments of pregnancy through the help of
professional photographers are something that should be done to preserve beautiful memories.
Assessing some key aspects will help the mother-to-be identify the right time to take pictures. This blog post reveals when women should plan for their maternity photoshoots.
First Trimester (0 – 13 Weeks)
The first trimester is when the fetus forms essential organs and tissues while the woman’s body starts to change. Shooting during the early weeks of pregnancy, between weeks 12 and 13, gives an occasion to schedule a baby announcement photoshoot. However, it can often be the worst time for most women because of morning sickness and fatigue, so I would suggest to wait and see how you feel.
Second Trimester (13 – 28 Weeks)
The second trimester is marked by a visibly pregnant belly and a woman’s improving health compared to how she felt during the first trimester. This is a good time to reach out to your photographer of choice to schedule a shoot for your third trimester.
Third Trimester (28 – 40 Weeks)
Most photographers suggest taking maternity photos during weeks 32 through 35. At this stage, the woman’s belly will have a natural pregnancy curve that allows for a lovely photograph. Anticipating the end of this period also guarantees completion before the pregnancy discomforts begin, while still having some flexibility in case the baby comes early.
The third trimester is the last term of pregnancy, whereby the woman’s belly has expanded as much as possible. Mobility, endurance, and energy output might decrease during this period, so be aware of what your body tells you. You might experience swelling, discomfort, and the need to take frequent bathroom breaks therefore shorter photoshoots might be preferred. Do not hesitate to ask the photographer for a break to rest if they don’t already suggest it anyway.
Postpartum Photos (aka Newborn Photos)
Maternity photography is more about pregnancy beauty; however, some mothers also prefer to take postpartum photographs. Newborn photos capture the joy and happiness that come with the birth of a new baby, the transformation of a mother after giving birth, and the ability to show a mother’s body in this state. Many parents prefer to arrange subsequent meetings within the first two weeks after delivery. Still, the baby sleeps most of the time, which can facilitate the organization of a photoshoot.
Additional Considerations
Along with timing sessions based on the stage of pregnancy, other factors also play a
role in scheduling maternity photography:
– Availability of photographer
– Weather and seasons and also where the photos will be taken
– Work schedules
– Siblings or other family members to include in your maternity photoshoot
Mothers-to-be should schedule photos at a stage when they are most willing to engage in the sessions so that they can maximize the joy. Telling photographers about a mother’s preferences regarding when to engage in a photo shoot helps in defining the best timing and the best photos without causing discomfort. Effective planning results in eternal images of the pregnancy transformation process.
