There are very few things that are as memorable as this season where your body is growing life. Although you may be feeling tired and nauseous, this is such an exciting time! Being a Boston maternity photographer and having the honor to capture these moments for you is truly such a joy. I absolutely LOVE maternity photoshoots and it is my goal to help you get the most out of your session. When my clients start to plan their session, nine times out of ten, their first question is when to take maternity photos. So, as your maternity photographer, I’m so happy to provide the full guide including everything you need to consider when planning your session. 

When to Take Maternity Photos

With years of experience as a Boston maternity photographer, I have found that the sweet spot to take maternity photos is around that 7-8 month mark, between 28 and 34 weeks! Your bump is a perfect size for photos, you’re usually still feeling good, and we’re not cutting it too close to your due date. Everything lines up perfectly, making this a great time frame to get your maternity photos taken! 

When to Reach Out to Me for Booking Your Maternity Photo Session

I typically book out about 2-3 months in advance. I would recommend reaching out the earlier, the better so typically towards the end of your first trimester is a great time to email me just to make sure I have availability for your session! 

What if I’m Past the 34-Week Mark?

If you’re reading this and thinking “uh oh…” because you’re past 34 weeks, don’t worry! We can still schedule a session for you. Just inquire with me and we can make something work. As long as you’re feeling good, I’m happy to take your maternity photos whenever is best for you!

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing When to Take Maternity Photos

What they say is true: Every pregnancy is going to be different. There are a couple of factors that I see pop up that can change the best time to take maternity photos, but with experience as a Boston maternity photographer, I’ve learned the best way to roll with them all! Here are a few common things I see in pregnancies that can change the timeline up a bit:

If You’re Having Twins/Multiples…

If you’re pregnant with more than one baby, chances are, you’ll deliver before your due date. The timeline I would recommend for your maternity photo session in this scenario would be between 26 and 32 weeks. You will pop much earlier so scheduling a session anytime in that time frame is best. You will also be less comfortable towards the end and might not feel up for a photoshoot in your third trimester. Things will naturally happen earlier for you when carrying multiples, so be sure to plan your photoshoot accordingly based on how many babies you’re having!

If This is Your Second Pregnancy…

Typically, first-time mamas show a belly bump a little bit later in their pregnancy. With a second baby, you tend to pop earlier! So, you may choose to shift closer to the 30-34-week timeline for a first baby, and the 28-32 week timeline for a second or third. This is just as something else to consider when planning your ideal timeline for your maternity photo session! 

How You’re Feeling

At the end of the day, the most important thing to consider when you’re scheduling a maternity photoshoot is how you’re feeling. Your comfort is top priority, so if you are feeling extra tired or have less mobility earlier than you expected, we can always opt to take your photos sooner! I will always work with you to find the best time to take your maternity photos. 

More Tips for a Maternity Photo Session

I have a few more tips that will help make your maternity photos go as smoothly as possible! Keep reading below to see some of the top things I’ve learned over the years as a Boston maternity photographer.

Where to Take Maternity Photos

There are plenty of gorgeous locations in and around Boston for a maternity photo session. Based on what you’re looking for as your background, I have lots of recommendations to send your way from beaches, to tall grassy fields, or somewhere in the city! Some of my favorite locations for maternity sessions are the Boston Public Garden, the Seaport, Wingaersheek Beach, M Street Beach, Francis William Bird Park, or Beals Preserve. I also love a studio maternity photo session for the mamas who are looking for a clean and simple look. No matter which backdrop feels most like you, be sure to book early to make sure you lock in your ideal spot! 

What to Wear for Maternity Photos

A flowy dress that has movement but still gives you shape is always one of my go-to recommendations. I also love a form fitting dress that really outlines your bump! Most importantly, make sure to try your outfit on ahead of time to make sure you’re comfortable! Neutral colors are always a good choice, or if you want to nod to the sex of your baby, you can dress in pink or blue! Here is a Pinterest board with some of my maternity outfit inspiration. I’m always happy to help you decide on your outfits so make sure to reach out if you ever need any help choosing!

Including Your Dog in Your Maternity Photo Session

If there’s a question of whether you should include your dog in a photoshoot, my answer will always be yes! Having your furry friend make a cameo is so special, because they’re a part of the family too. They are your first born after all! If you choose to include your dog, I always recommend bringing a friend or family member as an extra set of hands to help, or you can reach out to For The Love of Paws who I 100% recommend to all of my dog clients!

Lauren Dobish | My First Year Collective Photography Packages

Pregnancy is such a special time in your life and before you know it, your little one will be here! I’m so excited to capture your maternity session. If you’re interested in having multiple milestones in your baby’s first year photographed, I do offer combo collections. You can always opt for just a maternity photoshoot if that feels best to you, or you can choose one of the below packages that includes multiple milestones: 

• Bump-to-Baby: A maternity and newborn session
• Baby-to-First Birthday: A newborn and first birthday family session *can include a cake smash
• The First Year Collective: A petite maternity session, a newborn session, a petite 6-month session, and a first birthday family session 

You can inquire here for specific up-to-date pricing on all the above collections! If you’re interested in a petite pregnancy announcement session, I offer those as well! 

I truly hope my guide on when to take maternity photos helped you plan your session! I can’t wait to capture this special time in your life with images you’ll cherish forever! Make sure to also check out my blog post all about newborn photoshoots, to see if that’s something you’re interested in as well!