When to Book Maternity Photos: A Melbourne Mum’s Guide
- Alana Taylor
- Oct 30
- 6 min read
Pregnancy is one of the most transformative seasons of your life — a mix of anticipation, excitement, nerves, and wonder. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, there’s something so magical about documenting your pregnancy through photos.
Booking Your Pregnancy Photoshoot Session. Why Timing Matters?
Many mums-to-be type into Google phrases like “when to book maternity photos,” “maternity photography near me Melbourne,” or “best time pregnancy photoshoot” — and with good reason. Maternity photos are about more than just a baby bump; they’re about celebrating your body, your journey, and the love that’s growing right alongside your belly.
When to Book Maternity Photos?
Here’s the thing: timing matters. Book too early, and your bump may not be visible. Wait too long, and you may feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. So, when is the best time to schedule your Pregnancy photography session photos? Let’s break it down.
Why Maternity Photography Photos Matters
Maternity photography isn’t just about pretty photos. It’s about freezing a fleeting moment in your story. Pregnancy feels long when you’re living it, but in reality, the months fly by. Your bump changes almost daily, your body grows in ways you never thought possible, and your emotions run high.
Here’s why Maternity Photos matter:
Celebrating your journey: Your body is doing something extraordinary, and it deserves to be remembered.
Creating keepsakes for your child: One day, your little one will love seeing what life was like before they arrived.
Bonding with your partner or family: A maternity photoshoot becomes a beautiful way to pause and connect.
Capturing your glow: Yes, even if you don’t feel glowing, professional photography highlights the beauty you may not notice in the mirror.
Many of my clients in Clyde, Cranbourne, and Berwick say that looking back on their maternity photos makes them emotional — not because of the way they looked, but because of the memories those images now hold.
When to Book Maternity Photos? Best Weeks for Photos (30–34 Weeks)
Many Melbourne mums find themselves Googling “When to book maternity photos?” It’s one of the most common questions during pregnancy, and the answer is that the ideal time for a maternity photoshoot is usually between 30 and 34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully rounded but you’re still comfortable enough to enjoy the session.
Between 30 -34 Weeks:
Your bump is beautifully round and prominent.
You’re still (mostly) comfortable moving, posing, and enjoying the session.
The risk of going into early labour is low, so you don’t miss the chance.
If you’re expecting twins or multiples, it’s best to book earlier — around 28–30 weeks — as bumps tend to grow faster and mums often feel more physically strained.
👉 Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute.
Many Melbourne Baby and Maternity Photographers, myself included, book out months in advance. I recommend reserving your session by the second trimester to secure your preferred date.
What to Wear for Maternity Photos
One of the biggest stresses mums have before a photoshoot is deciding what to wear — but that’s one thing you won’t need to worry about here. At my Clyde maternity photography studio, I offer an exclusive wardrobe of over 60 designer maternity gowns, wraps, headpieces, flower crowns, and accessories, all carefully selected to flatter and enhance the pregnant body. These pieces aren’t just everyday dresses; they’ve been designed specifically for photography. They drape, flow, and highlight your bump in the most flattering way, making you look incredible both in person and on camera.
Studio Maternity Gowns and Accessories
With such a wide variety of gowns available in my Customer Wardrobe, you’ll have endless options to suit your style — from elegant flowing dresses that create soft, romantic movement to fitted styles that sculpt your silhouette and celebrate your bump.
Many gowns feature delicate lace, dramatic trains, and unique textures that transform your photos from simple portraits into works of art. To complete your look, the studio also offers an array of headpieces, flower crowns, and statement accessories — giving you the chance to add variety, detail, and personality to your session. Best of all, everything is complimentary to use during your shoot. That means no late-night online shopping, no second-guessing outfits, and no added stress.
My Studio Wardrobe
Stepping into the studio feels a little like stepping into your own private boutique. You’ll be guided through the collection, with the opportunity to try different looks and choose what makes you feel the most confident — from timeless neutrals to bold colours and dreamy fabrics. Each piece is designed to flatter a variety of body shapes and sizes, ensuring you feel radiant, comfortable, and celebrated at every stage of pregnancy.
By the end of the session, many mums tell me they’re amazed at how stunning they feel — not because of heavy styling or makeup, but because the gowns and accessories are created to celebrate pregnancy in the most flattering way possible. It’s this combination of thoughtful wardrobe options and professional photography that transforms your maternity photoshoot into a truly memorable experience, as beautiful as the photos themselves.
Including Partners & Siblings
Maternity photos aren’t just about the mum-to-be. Partners and siblings bring so much heart to these sessions.
Partners: Whether it’s holding your bump, sharing a laugh, or stealing a kiss, your partner’s involvement makes the shoot even more meaningful.
Siblings: Including older children adds joy and connection. They can hug your bump, kiss your belly, or join in for playful family moments.
I love guiding families through natural poses that feel genuine and relaxed. The magic always happens in the in-between moments - when siblings rest their heads on mum’s tummy, when a partner whispers something silly that makes everyone laugh, or when the couple simply share a quiet smile while holding the bump. These candid, unscripted interactions bring warmth and authenticity to your photos.
Why Book With Alana Taylor Photography
At Alana Taylor Photography, I’ve specialised in maternity, newborn, baby, and family photography for over 15 years. My Clyde studio is purpose-built for comfort and creativity, and I love working with families from across Melbourne’s South East — Officer, Narre Warren, Frankston, the Mornington Peninsula, and beyond.
Booking with me means you’ll not only have stunning maternity portraits but also the option to continue your journey with:
Newborn Photography in those first precious 2 weeks.
Baby and Kids Sessions at 3, 6, and 12 months.
Cake Smash Sessions to celebrate that unforgettable first birthday.
Family Portraits to round out your story.
Because while pregnancy may feel long, it’s fleeting. And photos are the memories that will last forever.
FAQs: When to Book Maternity Photos?
When should I book my maternity photos?
Most mums book in their second trimester to secure a date between weeks 30–34.
Can I still book if I’m over 34 weeks?
Yes! While earlier is ideal, beautiful photos can still be captured late into pregnancy.
What should I bring to my photoshoot?
Yourself, your bump, and any personal touches (like ultrasound photos, baby shoes, or partner’s hands).
Do I need to buy an outfit?
Not necessarily. I offer a full studio wardrobe with flowing gowns, wraps, and accessories.
Can partners and siblings be included?
Absolutely. I encourage it — they’re part of your story too.
Your Glow, Your Story - Capturing Your Pregnancy Through Timeless Images
Maternity Photoshoot Sessions are more than pictures — they’re a celebration of life, love, and anticipation.
When to Book Maternity Photos? The sweet spot for maternity sessions is between 30–34 weeks. By this stage, your bump has that gorgeous round shape, but you’re usually still comfortable enough to move, pose, and enjoy the experience. But truthfully, the best reason to book is always the same: to capture this fleeting season before it slips away.
Pregnancy is Temporary, but the images become forever reminders of the love, anticipation, and beauty that carried you into motherhood. These moments deserve to be remembered — not just for you, but for your little one to look back on one day.
Whether it’s your first bump, your last baby, or somewhere in between, maternity photos turn a fleeting season into a lasting legacy.
👉 Ready to celebrate your glow?
View my [Maternity Photography Packages]
