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MATERNITY

June 25, 2025

Best Time to Take Maternity Pictures

Finding the Sweet Spot: the Best Time to Take your Maternity Pictures

husband and wife in maternity with haley kinzie photography

The to-do list is long when you’re preparing to welcome a new baby. Between doctor appointments, nursery plans, and figuring out how to function without sleep (kidding… kind of), it’s easy for a maternity session to slip to the bottom of the list – especially if you’re unsure when the best time to take maternity pictures actually is.

But friend, this is a season worth celebrating and documenting.

Wondering when the best time to take maternity pictures is? This post walks you through the ideal timing, what to expect, and how to plan a session that feels relaxed, beautiful, and totally doable.

Because maternity sessions aren’t just about the bump (though we do love the bump!). They’re about honoring the anticipation. The beauty. The love already blooming in your family. And finding the best time to take maternity pictures is one of the simplest ways to make the whole experience feel meaningful, easy, and memorable.

There is a sweet spot for timing… and I’d love to help you find it!

maternity session in a field in golden hour with Haley Kinzie Photography

Table of Contents


Best time to Take Maternity Pictures

When to Book your Maternity Session

How long is a full maternity session?

Best Time to Take Maternity Pictures?

I’ve found the ideal timing for your maternity session depends a bit on your pregnancy history:

  • First baby? Schedule between 30–36 weeks.
  • Second (or more)? Aim for 30–34 weeks.

Why that window? It gives us the best of both worlds:

  • Your bump is perfectly showcased (without feeling low and uncomfortable)
  • You’re likely still walking comfortably
  • You have enough energy to enjoy the session
  • And -maybe most importantly- it builds in buffer time in case baby decides to come early!
when the best time to take maternity pictures for evening session with Haley Kinzie
best time to take maternity pictures in the evening for outdoor session

When to Book your Maternity Session: A Note on Booking Early

These sessions fill up quickly, especially in spring and fall when the weather is dreamy and golden hour is pure magic.

I typically recommend reaching out in your second trimester (between 12–20 weeks) to get on the calendar. That way, we can choose a session date that lines up with the best time to take maternity pictures for your due date and take our time planning the location and styling that makes your session feel like you.

best time to take maternity pictures during your pregnancy
couple posing for maternity session with Haley Kinzie

How long is a full maternity session?

Your session will be relaxed and unhurried—usually 45 to 60 minutes long. Scheduled right around golden hour (that magical, glowy light before sunset).

You can choose an outdoor location with tall grass and wide skies or an indoor session at home where you can snuggle in barefoot with your partner. Either way, I’ll send over my Location Guide to help you find something that fits your style and season.

We’ll also go over wardrobe styling, and I’ll guide you every step of the way (yes, even if pregnancy brain has you questioning everything in your closet).

golden hour maternity session in Oklahoma park with Haley Kinizie
Couple holding hands in their maternity session

Here’s Your Step-by-Step Plan:

  1. Look at your due date and count back to find your target session week (around 32 weeks)
  2. Inquire between 12–20 weeks to snag a spot
  3. We’ll chat through locations and session time
  4. I’ll send your prep guide so you can feel confident and cozy come shoot day
mom to be surrounded by bright fall foliage in maternity session

When choosing the Best Time to Take Maternity Pictures…

There’s no need to feel rushed or unsure; this is meant to be a joyful season in your motherhood journey! By planning ahead and scheduling your maternity session in that 30–36 week window, you’re setting the stage for images you (and your family) will treasure forever.

And friend, I cannot wait to help you tell your story. 💛

Ready to chat timing and locations? Click here to inquire and we’ll start dreaming up your session together. Want to learn more about the HKP maternity session experience? Learn more here.

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