A common question my clients ask after book me as their Virginia Beach maternity photographer is “when to take maternity photos?”

When to Schedule Your Maternity Photos

I find that the best time to schedule maternity photos is between 26-32 weeks. During this timeframe, you’ll have said BYE BYE to morning sickness, and be bumping along in all your pregnant, glowing glory. By this point, your energy should be back, you will be more excited to meet baby than anxious. Scheduling around 26-32 weeks gives a bit of a buffer in case there is any need to have to reschedule in case of bad weather or other events.

WHY do a Maternity Session?

Whether you are a first time Mom, pregnant with your 5th baby, or expecting your rainbow baby – every pregnancy is special, unique and deserves to be documented!

Pregnancy is a season of immense change – stepping into a new and incredibly powerful version of your self.

So why do a maternity session?

Because becoming a MOTHER deserves to be celebrated.

Mothers are rockstars, and deserves to celebrate each milestone and season of life with portraits.

When to Schedule your Session

When it comes to scheduling your maternity photos, you should consider the season before penciling the date onto your calendar. If you are going to be 26 weeks in August, it may be worth it to wait until you are closer to the 30 week mark to schedule your photos so you can avoid the high heat of August!

If you live in the South, like me, you know exactly how hot it can be in August, but September is often so much cooler. 🙂

The best part about maternity photos in the Winter is that, with all the extra blood circulating to grow baby? You’ll be able to still wear those flowy, pretty, timeless dresses without worrying about needing to layer too much clothing on top because you’ll stay nice and warm!

Enjoying Your Maternity Portraits

Scheduling between 26-32 weeks will also ensure you actually have time to ENJOY your portraits before baby arrives, as well! As a full-service photographer, I personally serve my clients with custom artwork. Artwork including framed portraits, heirloom albums and photo gifts and clients love to prioritize getting to enjoy their photos in tangible form both before and after baby arrives. 🙂

Looking to book maternity photos in Virginia Beach?

If you’re looking for a full-service maternity photographer in Virginia Beach, I can help! Click over to my website to learn more about the unique experience I offer at Chelsey Kraus Photography.

Not ready to book your maternity photos just yet, but want to see more dreamy newborn, maternity and family photos in Virginia Beach? Follow me on Instagram, we can be friends! 🙂

All Mommas in these blog images have been pampered with professional hair & makeup, wardrobe styling and access to my exclusive client wardrobe of dresses for their sessions. Artwork is always custom and designed with my client’s design preferences, home decor and personal style in mind.

Custom framing built by hand by The Photographer’s Framer in Tampa, Florida.