When to Book Maternity Photos | A Guide for Minneapolis Moms-to-Be

If you’re newly pregnant and starting to think about maternity photos, one of the first questions that comes up is: When should I book maternity photos? The answer might surprise you — and booking earlier than you think can make a huge difference in availability, comfort, and the final images you’ll love forever.

As a Minneapolis maternity photographer serving Minneapolis, Edina and the Twin Cities area, I’m walking you through the best time to book maternity photos, what week of pregnancy photographs best, and how to plan around Minnesota seasons.

When Should You Book Maternity Photos?

Most expectant moms should book their maternity photographer between 12–20 weeks pregnant, even though the session itself typically happens later.

Why so early?

• Popular photographers book out weeks (sometimes months) in advance
• You’ll have more flexibility with dates, locations, and styling
• Outdoor sessions in the Twin Cities are very season-dependent
• Many photographers photograph more than maternity sessions, so you are competing with families and high school seniors grabbing the top spots
• You won’t be scrambling once the third trimester fatigue kicks in

Even if you’re not fully sure what style you want yet, reserving your spot early gives you time to plan thoughtfully — and removes stress later.

What Is the Best Week to Take Maternity Photos?

The ideal time to photograph maternity sessions is typically between 28–34 weeks pregnant.

Here’s why this window works best:

• Your bump is cute, defined and beautifully round 🙂
• You’re usually still comfortable enough to move and pose (sometimes outdoor sessions can be a lot of walking, depending on your location)
• There’s less swelling than later in pregnancy
• You’re less likely to go into early labor!

Every pregnancy is different, of course. First-time moms sometimes show later, while second or third pregnancies may show earlier. A professional maternity photographer can help tailor the timing to your body and pregnancy.

A Trimester-by-Trimester Guide to Planning Maternity Photos

First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

This is the thinking and dreaming phase.

• Research maternity photographers in Minneapolis, Edina, or the surrounding Twin Cities area, depending on where you live
• Decide whether you prefer studio, outdoor, or in-home photos
• Begin budgeting and considering collections
• Think about if you want to use the same photographer for newborn photos – there’s often a discount for booking both at once!
• Save inspiration images you love to a Pinterest board. Photographers love to see what type of vision you have in mind.

👉 Best action: Reach out and ask about availability and timing.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–25)

This is the booking sweet spot.

• Reserve your session date
• Work with your photographer to plan wardrobe and style your session
• Choose a season-appropriate location, or one that matches your vision
• Coordinate family participation if desired

👉 Best action: Officially book your maternity photos during this trimester.

Third Trimester (Weeks 26–32)

This is when sessions usually take place (if this is your first pregnancy you will schedule for the later end, if this is 2nd, 3rd, etc you’ll be closer to 25-26 weeks for the sweet spot!).

• Finalize outfits
• Confirm session details with your Minneapolis maternity photographer
• Focus on comfort, confidence and enjoying the experience 🙂

👉 Best action: Relax — the planning is already done.

Studio vs. Outdoor Maternity Photos: How Timing Affects Your Choice

If you’re deciding when to book maternity photos, your preferred setting matters.

Studio maternity photos

• Flexible year-round (perfect for winter pregnancies)
• Softer, timeless look
• Less weather stress
• Photos are typically taken late morning, so you don’t need to use up a whole evening

Outdoor maternity photos

• Best booked early due to seasonal demand
• Ideal during spring, summer, and fall and is so beautiful with spring/summer flowers!
• Require weather-flexible planning (in Minnesota this could be beautiful, or tricky!)
• Photos are typically taken during golden hour, which is approximately 1.5 hours prior to sunset.

Many Twin Cities moms choose studio sessions in winter and outdoor sessions in warmer months — another reason booking early is key.

Can You Book Too Early?

Not really.

Booking early doesn’t mean committing to every detail immediately. It simply secures your spot and allows your photographer to guide you through planning as your pregnancy progresses.

In fact, early booking often leads to:

• Securing the most desired dates
• Better session flow
• More personalized styling guidance
• A calmer experience overall

When Is It Too Late to Book Maternity Photos?

It’s rarely too late — but waiting until after 30 weeks can limit availability, especially during peak seasons in Minneapolis. Also, weather aside – honestly, you’re not feeling your best as you get later in pregnancy! You want to time it so you feel amazing, yet your bump is bumpin.

Ready to Plan Your Maternity Photos?

If you’re expecting and wondering when to book maternity photos in Minneapolis, the best time is earlier than you think — ideally during your second trimester.

Early planning gives you:

• More flexibility
• Less stress
• Photos that truly reflect this season of your life

If you’re ready to begin planning your maternity session in Edina, Wayzata or the Twin Cities area, I’d love to help you create something meaningful, elegant and timeless.

If you want to learn more about the Maternity Photography Experience, click HERE!

To request information about the maternity photography experience & pricing information, click HERE!