Pregnancy is a time of anticipation, excitement, and change—a season of milestones, quiet reflections, and growing love as you prepare to meet your little one. As a Bay Area maternity photographer, I love helping families document this journey in a way that feels authentic, natural, and uniquely theirs.

One of the most common questions I hear is, “When should I schedule my maternity session?” The answer depends on what feels right for you, but let’s walk through some key factors to help you choose the best timing for beautiful, comfortable photos that capture this incredible chapter.

First Trimester: Early Beginnings

The first weeks of pregnancy bring big emotions, exciting news, and major changes. While some moms love the idea of capturing sweet announcement-style photos, others prefer to wait until they’re feeling more energized.

Morning sickness and fatigue can make early pregnancy more challenging, but if you’re feeling great and excited to document this first stage of your journey, we can absolutely plan a session that feels right for you.

Second Trimester: The Golden Weeks

The second trimester (weeks 14-27) is often called pregnancy’s “honeymoon phase”—and for good reason. With morning sickness behind you and energy levels up, many moms find this the perfect time to capture their growing bump while still feeling comfortable and confident.

At this stage, your bump is beautifully visible but still comfortable enough for natural movement and relaxed poses. Many moms love scheduling their session around this time—when they’re feeling their most radiant and confident.

Third Trimester: Celebrating Your Full Bloom

As you enter the final weeks before meeting your baby, there’s a special kind of anticipation that comes with knowing your little one will soon be in your arms. While pregnancy can feel more physically demanding in the third trimester, this is also when your bump is most prominent—creating powerful, emotive images that celebrate the journey to motherhood.

I typically recommend scheduling between weeks 28-35 to ensure you feel comfortable while still capturing your pregnancy at its most beautiful. Planning earlier in this window also allows for flexibility in case rescheduling is needed.

Creating Your Perfect Lifestyle Session

As a lifestyle photographer, I focus on capturing moments that feel real, relaxed, and meaningful. Whether we’re catching golden hour at Alameda beach, creating cozy moments in your San Francisco home, or wandering your favorite East Bay spots, we’ll choose a location that reflects your unique story.

Some favorite maternity moments include:

• Quiet morning rituals at home—drinking tea, reading, or feeling baby kicks
• Sunset walks on the beach or in a local park
• Candid interactions with your partner that capture your connection
• Soft, natural light that highlights your pregnancy glow

Making the Most of Your Session

No matter when you choose to schedule your maternity session, here are a few simple tips for a comfortable, enjoyable experience:

• Pick a time of day when you feel most energetic
• Choose locations that don’t require too much walking
• Wear comfortable, flowing clothing that makes you feel beautiful
• Consider including older siblings or pets for a more personal touch
• Most importantly—embrace this moment and enjoy the experience!

Your Unique Journey

The perfect timing for maternity photos is different for every mom. Whether you’re drawn to the early excitement of the first trimester, the radiant energy of the second, or the quiet anticipation of the third, we’ll work together to create a session that feels true to you.

Thinking about a maternity session?

Let’s chat about the perfect timing for you. Sessions fill up fast, especially in the second trimester!