When Is the Best Time for a Maternity Photoshoot?
Pregnancy is one of the most extraordinary chapters of your life. As your body changes and your family prepares to welcome a new little one, it's a season that's filled with excitement, anticipation and so much love.
Although it can sometimes feel like the longest nine months, pregnancy passes far more quickly than we expect. Before you know it, your tiny newborn will be here, and those beautiful weeks spent feeling every kick and flutter will become treasured memories.
One of the questions I'm asked most often is:
"When is the best time to book my maternity photoshoot?"
If you've been wondering the same thing, here's everything you need to know.
The Best Time for Maternity Photography
For most mums-to-be, the ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.
By this stage, your bump has usually developed into a beautiful, rounded shape that's perfect for photographs, while you're often still feeling comfortable enough to move around and enjoy the experience.
Every pregnancy is different, of course, so this isn't a strict rule. Some mums carrying twins, or those who know they'll be delivering early, may choose to book their session a little sooner.
The most important thing is choosing a time when you still feel relaxed and able to enjoy the experience.
Why Not Wait Until the End?
It's tempting to think you'll wait until your bump is as big as possible.
However, the final weeks of pregnancy can be unpredictable.
Many mums begin to feel:
More tired
Less comfortable walking
Swollen hands or feet
Lower energy levels
Babies also have a habit of arriving when they choose!
Booking your session a little earlier helps ensure you don't miss the opportunity altogether.
When Should I Book?
I recommend getting in touch during your second trimester, ideally after your 20-week scan.
Booking early means you'll have a choice of dates and gives us plenty of time to plan your session without any last-minute stress.
Once your session is reserved, all that's left for you to do is look forward to celebrating this incredible chapter.
Studio or Outdoor Maternity Photography?
This is one of my favourite questions because there's no right or wrong answer.
My studio in Shaldon, near Teignmouth, offers a calm, private space with beautiful natural light and timeless styling.
If you love being outdoors, South Devon also offers breathtaking locations for maternity photography.
Imagine:
Walking barefoot along Shaldon Beach at sunset.
Standing on the cliffs overlooking the sea.
Wandering through Haldon Forest beneath the trees.
Watching the evening light across Dartmoor.
Each location creates a completely different atmosphere, and together we'll choose the one that feels most like you.
What Should I Wear?
The best maternity photographs are beautifully simple.
Soft, neutral tones such as cream, oatmeal, sage green, dusty blue and warm beige photograph wonderfully and create timeless images that won't go out of fashion.
Flowing dresses, knitted textures and comfortable fabrics allow your bump to remain the focus while helping you feel confident and relaxed.
I'll also guide you before your session with clothing suggestions to help you feel your absolute best.
Can My Partner and Children Join?
Absolutely.
Maternity photography is about celebrating your growing family, not just your pregnancy.
Partners, older siblings and even four-legged family members are always welcome where appropriate.
Some of the most meaningful photographs are often the quiet moments between you—little hands resting on your bump, a gentle cuddle or the excitement of an older sibling waiting to meet their new best friend.
A Relaxed Experience
One thing I hear from so many mums is:
"I'm not very confident in front of the camera."
Please don't worry.
You don't need to know how to pose or where to look.
I'll gently guide you throughout the session, creating natural movement and relaxed moments that feel authentic rather than staged.
My goal is for you to leave feeling beautiful, confident and excited to see your photographs.
Celebrate This Chapter Before It Becomes a Memory
Pregnancy is such a fleeting season.
Long before you know it, your baby will be in your arms, and your bump will simply be part of your story.
A maternity photoshoot is about slowing down, celebrating everything your body is achieving and preserving these moments before life changes forever.
At Pengelly Portraits, I create relaxed maternity photography from my welcoming studio in Shaldon, near Teignmouth, and at beautiful outdoor locations across South Devon, including Newton Abbot, Exeter, Dawlish and Torquay.
If you're looking for a natural, timeless maternity photographer in Devon, I'd be honoured to capture this incredible chapter of your family's journey.
I can't wait to meet you.
