When to take maternity photos | Jasmyn Sambac Photography

You’ve made it through the trenches of the dreaded first trimester and find yourself with renewed energy and a sense of self as you enter the second. Baby shower plans and the nursery decor theme have consumed your feeds that now have you wondering when to take maternity photos. Maybe you’ve been planning for a maternity photoshoot since the positive test. Or maybe you’ve discovered the glow feeling more beautiful through this transformation. Either way, the idea of having a maternity photoshoot to embrace and remember this season of life feels intentionally heartwarming.

As a Phoenix Maternity Photographer, I have had the joy of photographing countless beautiful baby bumps. Each carrying its own story, an empowering transformation, and a quiet, sacred essence. A maternity photoshoot is a great way to celebrate this special milestone in your life. Whether you are pregnant with your first baby or you’ve had several children, each time is a special new chapter. You’re overjoyed! Despite the growing pains, your second trimester gave you a boost of energy and confidence. At this point, the anticipation of your baby’s arrival is insurmountable. 

When to take maternity photos

Generally, the best time for maternity photos is between 28-34 weeks or earlier in your third trimester.

By this stage:

• Your bump is beautifully pronounced
• You’re still relatively comfortable moving around
• You’re far enough along to look pregnant, but early enough to avoid the late-third-trimester fatigue.

Of course, each pregnancy is unique. Some show earlier or later, carry smaller or larger, it’s all normal. If you fall outside of this range, don’t stress. The most important thing is that you feel good and ready to document this incredible moment.

Are you in your second trimester and ready to create something beautiful together?

Why is 28-34 weeks the sweet spot

The pregnancy glow is real, and it’s likely already shown up. I recall feeling most beautiful in my own pregnancy around this time, and I’ve heard the same to be true from the many women whom I’ve photographed. This is the time when your skin looks amazing, your hair is fuller, and your nails are growing stronger. The natural beauty

As your due date approaches, you may experience excessive tiredness, swelling of hands and feet, shortness of breath, and aches and pains that dampen your maternity photo experience. According to thebump.com, that’s when your baby is about the size of an eggplant and growing fast, making it a challenge to move around and pose comfortably. As your photographer, you’re in good hands. I prioritize your comfort and safety, pacing your session to support your experience.

What if I’m earlier or later than that?

It’s completely okay! I’ve photographed radiant mamas earlier than 28 weeks and as close as days before delivery. If you’re expecting multiples, your session may take place even earlier. Each session is tailored to you, your pregnancy, and your comfort. You’re not on a strict timeline, you’re on your timeline.

when to book your maternity session.

I recommend reserving your photo session as early as 12-20 weeks into pregnancy. This ensures availability(especially during busy seasons) and gives us time to plan your dream shoot. This is especially important if:

• you want to include exclusive wardrobe pieces or designer gowns
• you’re interested in a curated style working with additional vendors(ie. florist, cake artist, etc.)
• you’re coordinating with a partner’s schedule
• your due date is close to seasonal holidays

Booking early also gives you something to look forward to—a moment just for you, before baby arrives.

Why you’ll love having maternity photos in the third trimester.

These portraits are more than a bump photo. They’re a time capsule of who you are right now and a reflection of the woman you’re becoming.

You’ll have images that reflect your strength, softness, and love. A chance to celebrate yourself, before everything shifts. These are the photos your child may one day treasure– the ones that say, “This is how much I loved you, even before I met you.”

Ready to begin?

If you’re a Phoenix area mom who’s expecting and wondering when to take maternity photos, I hope this guide gave you clarity and inspiration. This chapter is fleeting, but it can be remembered beautifully.

Get in touch to plan your custom maternity session—I’d be honored to capture this moment for you.

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