When is the best time to book a newborn or maternity session?
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding to your growing tribe, these moments are sacred. That soft curve of your belly, the tiny newborn yawn, the feeling that time is both slow and fast at once - it’s all worth remembering.
If you’re wondering when to book your maternity or newborn session, you’re not alone. It’s a question I get all the time.
Here’s my simple guide to timing things just right.
Look at those sweet cheeks
Maternity Sessions. The sweet spot is 28–34 weeks
For most expecting mothers, the best time to schedule a maternity shoot is between 28 to 34 weeks.
By this stage:
• Your bump is usually beautifully round and prominent.
• You’re still relatively comfortable and mobile.
• There’s less risk of early labour sneaking up on us (oops hello baby!).
Of course, every pregnancy is different. If you’re carrying twins or experiencing a difficult third trimester, I recommend booking a little earlier (around 26–30 weeks).
Love a good nappy and clothes change. Capturing these everyday moments.
Newborn Sessions. Best in the first 2–3 weeks, but flexible
I typically photograph newborns between 7 to 21 days old.
During this window, babies are still in that sleepy, curly, fresh stage. Perfect for those tender, quiet images that capture just how tiny they really are.
That said, I’m not rigid about timelines. If your baby is older than 3 weeks, don’t worry! I’ve photographed beautiful newborn sessions with 6 week olds, 8 week olds and beyond, especially if you’re craving connection and everyday moments over sleepy poses. There’s no “too late” when it comes to documenting love.
So… when should you actually book in?
To avoid disappointment, I recommend reaching out to book your session around:
• Maternity photos – by the end of your second trimester.
• Newborn photos – anytime during your pregnancy, ideally by 30 - 34 weeks.
That way, I can reserve space around your due date and be flexible when baby arrives (early or late - they run the show!).
All the love for this newborn
Bonus tip: book both with a Bump to Baby package
My Bump to Baby bundle is the perfect way to document your journey into motherhood, without the stress of planning two separate shoots. We lock in your maternity date, pencil in your due date, and everything else flows gently from there.
If you’re expecting and want photos that feel warm, real and deeply connected. I’d love to photograph this season for you.
Reach out any time to chat or book your session.
Let’s capture the beauty of your growing family, right at home.
Click here to book your session, or reach out if you have questions.