When Should You Book Maternity Photos? Everett & Seattle Photographer
Friday, February 20, 2026 | By: IJ Photo
When Should You Book Your Maternity Session? (Seattle & Everett Guide)
If you're pregnant and wondering when to book maternity photos, you're in the right place.
This is one of the most common questions I hear from expecting moms across Seattle and Snohomish County. Between doctor appointments, nursery prep, and everyday life, maternity photos can easily slide down the priority list — until suddenly you feel like time is moving very fast.
As an Everett maternity photographer who has worked with growing families for more than 25 years, I always tell moms the same thing: planning your session at the right time makes the entire experience feel easier and more relaxed.
The good news? The timing is simpler than most people think.
The Best Time to Book Your Maternity Session
Most maternity photographers recommend booking your maternity session during your second trimester (week 17-27).
This timing works well because:
-
There is still good availability on the calendar
-
We have time to plan your session details
-
You’re usually feeling more comfortable than in the third trimester
-
Your bump is beginning to show beautifully
For many Seattle-area moms, reserving your session during this window removes a huge layer of last-minute stress.
If you’d like to see how maternity sessions flow in my studio, you can explore my Everett maternity photography experience.
When Should Your Maternity Photos Actually Be Taken?
While booking happens earlier, the ideal time to photograph your maternity session is typically between 25 and 34 weeks pregnant.
During this stage:
-
Your belly has a beautiful, defined shape
-
Most moms are still relatively comfortable
-
Movement and posing feel easier
-
Swelling is usually less severe than in the later weeks
This window creates the elegant, glowing look many moms hope for in their maternity portraits.
Why Booking Early Matters More Than You Think
Many moms assume they can wait until the third trimester to book — but by then, options can be limited.
When you reserve your Everett maternity photographer early:
-
You get the best choice of session dates
-
Wardrobe planning is easier
-
Hair and makeup scheduling is smoother
-
You avoid last-minute decision stress
For busy Seattle and Snohomish County families, early planning often makes the entire experience feel far more manageable.
What If I’m Already Further Along?
If you’re past the ideal booking window, don’t panic — reach out anyway.
I regularly photograph maternity sessions for Everett and Seattle moms who contact me later in pregnancy. The key is simply reaching out as soon as you start thinking about it so we can find the best available timing.
Even if you’re already in your third trimester, beautiful maternity portraits are often still very possible.
Why Many Moms Book Maternity and Newborn Together
One of the biggest stress reducers for expecting parents is handling both sessions at the same time.
Many families choose the Bump-to-Baby bundle so their maternity and newborn sessions are planned in one simple step.
Parents love this because:
-
both milestones are reserved early
-
styling stays cohesive
-
scheduling feels easier
-
one more decision is already handled
For overwhelmed moms especially, having a clear plan in place often brings immediate peace of mind.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Timing
Every pregnancy is different, so the “perfect” timing can vary slightly.
You may want to book on the earlier side if:
-
You’re carrying multiples
-
This is a higher-risk pregnancy
-
You tend to show earlier
-
You want maximum calendar flexibility
You might schedule closer to 32–34 weeks if:
-
You prefer a fuller bump
-
You’ve had smaller pregnancies before
-
You’re feeling comfortable and mobile
As an Everett maternity photographer serving many Seattle families, I help guide each mom to the timing that will photograph best for her specific situation.
A Comfortable Studio Experience for Seattle & Everett Moms
My Everett studio was designed specifically for maternity and newborn photography, with everything in place so you don’t have to stress over the details.
Located just minutes off I-5, the studio is an easy drive for families coming from:
-
Seattle
-
Bothell
-
Lynnwood
-
Mill Creek
-
Marysville
-
throughout Snohomish County
Many moms tell me they love having a calm, fully guided space where they can simply show up and be taken care of.
Ready to Reserve Your Maternity Session?
If you’re currently pregnant and thinking about timing, the best next step is simply to reach out early so we can hold space on the calendar.
If you're looking for an Everett maternity photographer who serves Seattle families and creates a comfortable, fully guided experience, you can contact me, and I’ll help you choose the best timing.
Final Thoughts
Maternity photos are one of those things that feel far away — until suddenly they’re not.
Booking during your second trimester and photographing between 25–34 weeks gives most moms the smoothest, most comfortable experience and the most flattering results.
If you’re unsure about timing, I’m always happy to help you map out what will work best for your pregnancy and your growing family.