When Should You Book Maternity Photos? | Newcastle, Maitland & Hunter Valley Maternity Photographer
One of the most common questions I get from expecting mums is:
“When should I book my maternity photos?”
And honestly, my answer is always the same whenever you feel ready.
Pregnancy is such a unique season of life. It can feel like it’s going by so slowly while you’re living through it, but then suddenly you’re holding your baby and wondering where the time went.
Maternity photos are about taking a moment to slow down and remember this little chapter before everything changes.
When is the best time to have maternity photos?
Most mums book their maternity session somewhere between 28 and 34 weeks pregnant.
This is usually the sweet spot because your bump is beautifully showing, but you’re often still feeling comfortable enough to walk around, move naturally and enjoy the experience.
That being said, every pregnancy is different. Some mums feel amazing later in pregnancy, while others prefer to capture their bump a little earlier. There really isn’t a strict rule, the best time is when you feel your best.
When should I book my maternity photographer?
I always recommend reaching out once you know you’d like to have maternity photos done.
You don’t have to wait until your bump is big or until the last few weeks. In fact, booking earlier means we can choose a date that works best around your due date and plan your session without any last-minute stress.
Pregnancy can get busy with appointments, preparing the nursery and getting everything ready for your little one, so having your session organised ahead of time is one less thing to think about.
What happens during a maternity session?
If you’ve never had professional photos taken before, you might be wondering what actually happens.
The good news is, you don’t need to know how to pose.
My sessions are relaxed and natural. I’ll guide you through everything, but I don’t want your photos to feel stiff or forced.
The little moments are usually the ones that matter most. The way your partner looks at you, the hand resting on your bump, the excitement of knowing you’re about to meet your baby.
Those are the moments I want to capture.
What should I wear for maternity photos?
This is probably the second most asked question!
For my light and airy style, I love soft colours, neutral tones, earthy shades, creams, whites and gentle pastels. These colours photograph beautifully and help create the soft, timeless feeling you see throughout my work.
Flowy dresses, soft fabrics and pieces that move beautifully in the breeze always look amazing.
I also have a client wardrobe available for mums, with dresses that have been carefully chosen to suit my style and flatter a range of body shapes. If finding something to wear feels overwhelming, you’re more than welcome to borrow something from my wardrobe for your session.
My biggest advice? Choose something you feel beautiful and comfortable in. When you feel good, it shows.
Should my partner or children be included?
Absolutely.
While maternity photos celebrate your pregnancy, they’re also about capturing your family before it grows and changes.
Including your partner, your children or even your pets can create some of the most meaningful images. These photos become a little time capsule of what your family looked like during this special season.
Where do you photograph maternity sessions?
I photograph maternity sessions throughout Newcastle, Maitland, the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie and surrounding areas.
I love outdoor maternity sessions because there is something so timeless about being surrounded by nature. Golden fields, beaches, forests and quiet outdoor locations all create beautiful backdrops that keep the focus on you and your connection
If you have somewhere meaningful in mind, I’d love to hear about it.
Are maternity photos really worth it?
I know when you’re pregnant there are a thousand things to spend money on before your baby arrives.
But one thing I hear from so many mums afterwards is how grateful they are that they captured this time.
Your bump will change. Your baby will arrive. Life will move into a completely new chapter.
These photos aren't just about what you looked like they're about remembering how excited you were, how much love you already had for someone you hadn't even met yet, and the little moments before your family changed forever.
I tossed up if i even wanted maternity photos of my own pregnancy, i did and ill be honest i couldn’t image not having those memories now.
Looking for a maternity photographer in Newcastle, Maitland or the Hunter Valley?
If you’re looking for a maternity photography experience that feels relaxed, natural and focused on capturing the real moments, I’d love to help.
Whether this is your first baby or you’re adding another little person to your family, this season deserves to be remembered.
Let’s capture the excitement, the love and the beautiful in-between moments before your baby arrives.
