The journal · Maternity photography
When is the best time for your maternity photoshoot?
You would like photos of your bump, but you are not sure when to have them taken. Perhaps it is only just beginning to show. Or perhaps your due date is getting closer. There are two separate questions to consider: when to have your photos taken, and when to get in touch to arrange them.
Choosing your week
Which week of pregnancy works for maternity photos?
For maternity sessions at my Munich studio, we usually plan for 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. This is a guide for arranging your session. Your bump does not need to be a particular size or shape.
Think about how you feel and the photographs you would like. Would you prefer portraits on your own in the studio? Or would you like your partner and an older child to join you? We will talk about this beforehand so the appointment fits you and your family.
There is no need to wait until your bump is as big as possible. A side view, a hand resting on your bump and clothes that show its shape can work beautifully earlier on too. Together, we will find photographs that feel like you.
How early should you book your maternity photoshoot?
Get in touch once you know you would like pregnancy photos. You do not need to wait until week 32 to ask about a session. Speaking earlier gives us time to discuss your ideas and find a suitable date.
It helps to know how many weeks pregnant you are and your expected due date. Tell me if you already have something in mind, such as a studio or outdoor session, and who you would like to bring along.
You do not need to have chosen a dress or prepared a list of poses before contacting me. You can find details and prices for maternity photoshoots in Munich on my session page. We will talk through the rest together.
Can you have maternity photos taken earlier or later?
Yes, we can discuss a date outside weeks 32 to 36. You might already love the way your bump looks. Perhaps your partner is visiting, or an earlier appointment simply fits your plans better.
If you are further along in your pregnancy, you are welcome to get in touch too. I will check whether a suitable appointment is available. I cannot promise availability at short notice, but you do not need to assume it is too late for your photographs.
During the session, you can sit down, lean back and take breaks. There is no set number of poses we need to get through. If you do not feel well on the day, please let me know so we can discuss the appointment.
Planning photos with your partner or older children
For family photographs, your day-to-day routine matters alongside your pregnancy week. It helps to choose a time when you can arrive without rushing. If an older child is joining you, we will also talk about which time of day suits your family.
Let me know who would like to come. We can plan photographs of you on your own as well as pictures together. We will agree on what is included and any additional charges before you book.
Your child does not need to stand still for a long time. A hand on your bump or a quick hug can be enough for a photograph. My article with 15 ideas for your maternity photos includes examples of portraits on your own, with your partner and with older siblings.
A few things to prepare before your appointment
Choose two or three photographs you like. They give us a useful starting point for discussing simple window-light portraits, photographs in a dress or pictures with your family. We do not need to recreate them exactly.
Bring clothes you enjoy wearing. There is also a choice of outfits and accessories in the studio. An open shirt with jeans can work just as well as a dress. Whether you keep your bump covered or show some skin is entirely up to you.
Allow a little extra time for the journey and wear comfortable clothes beforehand that are unlikely to leave tight marks on your skin. We allow around two hours for the session. You can have a look around my daylight studio in Munich’s Westend before you visit.
Planning maternity and newborn photos together
If you would also like photographs of your first weeks with your baby, mention this when you enquire about your maternity session. We can discuss both shoots without setting an exact date for the newborn photographs yet.
We will agree on the newborn appointment after your baby arrives, taking into account when you feel ready. You can read more in my guide to the timing of newborn photos.
You will find the details and image packages on my newborn photography in Munich page. If you like, we can include the same small detail in both sessions, perhaps a blanket or your hands: first resting on your bump, and later holding your baby.
Your photographer in Munich
Let us find a date that suits you
I am Anna, and I photograph maternity sessions in my daylight studio in Munich’s Westend or outdoors by arrangement. If you are unsure which week to choose, we can talk it through together.
Tell me how many weeks pregnant you are, your expected due date and any ideas you have for your photographs. I will get back to you personally.
I look forward to meeting you!
Anna