Planning the Perfect Maternity Photoshoot: Timeline and Considerations

HELLO! You’re growing life – let’s capture the glow

If you’re expecting and thinking about documenting this special chapter, first of all, congratulations! What a beautiful, transformative season you’re in. Maternity shoots are one of my favorite experiences to create with clients because it’s about so much more than showing a bump. It’s about honoring the strength and softness of motherhood. It’s about celebrating your family as it is – and the excitement of all that’s to come.

One maternity session that truly stayed with me was with a client who brought a few beautiful outfit options and felt comfortable expressing her vision. She’d thoughtfully gathered some inspiration (some of my previous work, and a few other styles she liked), which meant I had a really clear view of what she wanted. She was also open to trying some of my styling suggestions and props… and oh, the variety we captured! Each image honored her unique glow and personality, and the session flowed with ease and creativity.

Whether this is your first baby or your third, careful planning and a gentle guide can make all the difference between a stressful shoot and one that becomes a core memory. I’m here to help you feel confident, beautiful, and truly seen.

Why maternity photography deserves intention – not last-minute scrambling

Most of the expecting parents I work with aren’t quite sure when or how to schedule their maternity session. Do we wait for a big bump? Will I be too tired? What if baby arrives early?

These are all valid concerns, and truthfully, I always encourage some thoughtful planning – not just for logistics, but to ensure we create a session that feels effortless, relaxed, and entirely true to you. With a bit of preparation, your maternity shoot can be as calm and joyful as a sunny afternoon stroll with someone you love.

Whether you’re dreaming of golden hour at the beach or cozy textures in the studio, here’s how I help my maternity clients approach their session with clarity and calm.

Maternity Photography: My Top 4 Planning Tips for a Beautiful Session

1. Time your shoot for 30 to 36 weeks into your pregnancy

This is the sweet spot! At around 30 to 36 weeks:

• Your bump is beautifully round and defined (perfect for photos)
• You’re typically still comfortable enough to move, pose, and enjoy the experience
• There’s less risk of baby arriving early and you missing the chance to capture this season

We want you to look and feel radiant, not exhausted or swollen from those very late pregnancy discomforts. Planning your session during this window allows us to capture your shape and your joy in equal measure.

2. Choose outfits that celebrate (not hide) your bump

A common trip-up I gently help my clients avoid? Wearing all black or very loose clothing.

I completely understand that many pregnant women reach for comfort – and black can feel safe. But when it comes to maternity photography, we want to see your silhouette, not hide it.

Here’s what I suggest instead:

• Fitted dresses that stretch lovingly across your belly
• Flowing gowns with cinched waistlines that flatter and photograph beautifully
• Soft, natural tones (whites, creams, soft pastels) and textures that photograph well outdoors or in studio
• Consider having multiple outfit options for variety

I also bring a selection of organic props and styling pieces to complement your outfits and enhance the emotion in your images. You’re never on your own when it comes to prepping – this is a team effort.

3. Share inspiration – and trust the process

I always encourage clients to send me inspiration before the session. This could be from my own portfolio or photos you’ve come across that align with your taste. It helps me understand your preferences – light and airy vs moody and intimate, posed vs candid – and guides how we plan your session.

That said, once we’re there, I invite you to trust the moment. Some of our most meaningful images emerge not from a shot list, but from quiet, organic connection – the way your hand rests on your belly, the light falling perfectly across your face, a private smile you didn’t know I caught.

4. Don’t wait too long to book (beautiful light doesn’t like to rush)

In Perth, golden hour is our best friend – soft, warm, and dreamy. But timing matters. Sunset sessions (especially outdoors, like at Trigg Beach or Floreat Dunes) book out quickly, particularly in spring and autumn.

By booking at least a month in advance (ideally earlier), you’ll have:

• First pick of ideal times, especially during peak seasons
• Time to try on and select outfits
• Breathing room for unexpected schedule shifts

And of course, I’m always here to help finalize all these details. My process is intentionally calming and supportive.

Maternity photos are more than a keepsake – they’re part of your story

One day, you’ll tell your child about this time – how you felt them kick, how you waited with excitement (and yes, maybe some nausea). The images we take become part of that story. They’re not just for albums or social media. They are a way of saying, this mattered. You were loved long before you arrived.

Having lost my own parents young, I know how much these memories mean. And as a mother, I deeply understand the pull to preserve each fleeting moment. My maternity clients often say they didn’t realize how much they’d treasure the photos until they saw them – how powerful it felt to have this season honored so tenderly.

So let’s create something you’ll love now, and cherish even more in the years to come.

Ready to plan your session with care?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, joyful maternity photography experience in Perth that feels personal, calm, and creatively guided, you’re already in the right place.

At Jessica Lockhart Photography, I offer outdoor, in-home, and studio maternity sessions tailored to your comfort and preferences. I’d love to help you plan your perfect shoot – from choosing the right outfits to creating images that reflect your true glow.

Book early, breathe deeply, and let’s celebrate this incredible journey you’re on.

Warmly,
Jessica