Best Time for Maternity Photos | Richmond VA Photographer

A mother-to-be, expecting twin girls, photographed by Clarice Oliveira at Three Lakes Park in Richmond, Virginia, with the tranquil lake as her backdrop.

Maternity Photoshoot Timeline: When Is the Best Time to Schedule?

You’ve waited for this season with a full heart and a growing belly - and somewhere between preparing the nursery, going to doctor’s appointments, and wondering if you’ll ever sleep again, you might have this question swirling in your mind: When should I schedule my maternity photos?

If you’ve been Googling or asking friends for answers, you’re probably hearing numbers like 28 weeks or 32 weeks. Those dates are helpful, of course, but what I’ve learned as a maternity photographer in Richmond, Charlottesville, and Alexandria VA, is this: it’s not really about the number of weeks. It’s about how you feel, how you see yourself in this moment, and how much you want to remember this season exactly as it is.

I’ve met women who came in for photos two days before giving birth and absolutely loved their images. I’ve also worked with mamas who scheduled later but struggled to feel comfortable and confident in their bodies. Timing alone isn’t the whole story.

So let’s talk about how to choose the time that feels right for you - gently, without pressure - and how I can help you capture this fleeting, beautiful chapter just as it is.

Honoring Where You Are (Not Just the Calendar)

Pregnancy is a journey full of changes - some expected, some surprising, all layered with emotion. I’ve walked beside women who felt glowing right at 30 weeks, and those who didn’t feel their best until it was almost baby time. And I’ve also seen how regrets can creep in when mamas don’t take the photo because they “waited too long.”

I want to say this with care: there is no wrong time to document your pregnancy, unless you tell yourself you have to look or be a certain way to do it.

That belief - that the photos won’t be ‘worth it’ if you’re already past the “ideal week” or carrying differently this time - is something I try gently to shift in each session. Your story, your body, your connection with that little soul growing inside you? It is worthy. Always.

So, When’s the “Best” Time to Schedule?

Let’s explore what works best for most mamas based on years of photographing growing bellies, loving glances, and hands cradling the future.

1. The Sweet Spot: 28 to 32 Weeks

Most of the time, the magic window falls between 28 and 32 weeks.

• Your bump is usually showing clearly enough to capture that beautiful round shape.

• Many women are still feeling relatively good physically - energy levels are decent and movement isn’t too restricted.

• You’re not yet at the stage where swelling or discomfort might affect how you feel in photos.

This stage often strikes the perfect balance. You’ll likely feel strong, radiant, and able to move freely, especially for an outdoor maternity session.

2. If You're Later Than That, Don't Panic

I’ve had clients come in at 36, even 38 weeks, and still come out of the session smiling. One mama came for her photos just two days before giving birth and told me afterward how glad she was to have captured those final, powerful moments with her baby still inside her.

The truth? If you feel beautiful - or even want to feel beautiful - your body can surprise you in the most wonderful way when you step in front of the lens with someone who sees you with kindness and artful eyes.

So if you’re already at 33 weeks and feeling unsure, my advice is: call me. Don’t let the calendar decide if you get to have these memories.

3. Consider How You Want the Session to Feel

The setting can play a big role in your comfort, especially depending on how you're feeling at this stage:

• Outdoor maternity photos often feel relaxed and natural, with movement and gentle prompts to keep things flowing. This works especially well during the earlier part of that 28–32 week window, when energy is still steady.

• More formal or indoor studio portraits can be great later in pregnancy, when you may want something calm, seated, and cozy without walking too much.

Think about what feels best for you. Whether it’s barefoot in the grass or wrapped in soft light inside your home, there’s no one formula.

4. Be Prepared for Changes - And That’s Okay

Pregnancy is unpredictable. You might intend to schedule at 30 weeks and find that you need to reschedule. Maybe the weather shifts or your energy dips. That is all part of the journey, and we adapt together.

When you work with me, flexibility and ease are part of the experience. I always remind families: this doesn’t have to be perfect. It only has to be present and real.

These Moments Matter - No Matter When You Capture Them

More than anything, I want you to have images that reflect the truth of this season: the beauty, the anticipation, the quiet connection between you and this little life growing quietly within.

When you look back on these photos months or even years from now - with a baby giggling in your arms or a toddler running through your legs - I hope you’ll see not just a belly, but a version of yourself full of love and grace.

So if you're wondering about timing, the answer is simple: when you feel the pull to remember this time, that’s the right moment.

Ready to Book Your Maternity Session?

If you're between 28–32 weeks pregnant now, let's find a date soon. If you’re further along, don’t worry - I have space for you too, and I promise, we can still create images that feel honest and full of love.

Explore more about maternity sessions here, or reach out to me directly through my contact form.

Wherever you are in your pregnancy journey, let’s absorb this moment together - and give you something to reflect on and admire for years to come.

With warmth,

Clarice