When to Take Maternity Photos: Best Timing for Sessions in San Jose and the Bay Area
Ozlem Bal Herdem
When to Schedule and What to Expect for Your Maternity Photo Session in San Jose and the Bay Area
Pregnancy is such a beautiful, fleeting time in your life—a season of anticipation, change, and love that deserves to be captured. As a maternity photographer based in West San Jose, I specialize in creating natural, timeless portraits that celebrate this incredible chapter for families across San Jose and the Bay Area.
Many expecting mothers wonder: "When is the best time to take maternity photos?" and "How do I prepare for a maternity session?" Here are the answers—plus everything you need to know to plan your perfect maternity session.
1. When to Schedule Your Maternity Session
The ideal time to photograph your baby bump is between 28–35 weeks of pregnancy. Around this time, your belly has a beautiful, round shape, but you’re usually still feeling comfortable enough to pose and move around. Every pregnancy is unique, so if you're expecting multiples or have special circumstances, we can adjust your session timeline.
Pro Tip: It's best to book your maternity session early in your second trimester to secure your preferred date—especially during busy seasons like spring and fall!
2. Studio or Outdoor Options
At Twin Dragonflies Photography Studio in West San Jose, I offer both cozy studio sessions and dreamy outdoor sessions at sunset. Whether you prefer glowing natural light in the hills or a soft, elegant studio setting, we’ll create images that reflect your unique style and personality.
3. What to Wear for Your Maternity Session
I provide a curated collection of beautiful maternity gowns—designed to flatter your bump and flow beautifully in photos. You’ll also receive a full style guide to help coordinate outfits for your partner and other children if they’re joining the session. Soft neutrals, pastels, and flowing textures photograph best and help keep the focus on you and your growing family.
4. Including Your Family
Including your partner and older children makes your maternity session even more special. It’s a beautiful way to capture the love and excitement that surrounds welcoming a new baby into your family.
5. Favorite Maternity Locations in the Bay Area
Beyond my West San Jose studio, I photograph maternity sessions at stunning locations like Vasona Lake Park (Los Gatos), Gamble Garden (Palo Alto), Santa Teresa County Park (San Jose), and Cactus Garden in Stanford.
Capturing your pregnancy is about celebrating the beauty, strength, and joy of this special time—and creating timeless portraits you and your family will cherish forever.
Ready to book your maternity session? Let's create something beautiful together!
Contact me here to reserve your session:
Contact me here or view my Maternity Portfolio for inspiration.