When to Book Maternity & Newborn Photos (A Lehigh Valley Guide)
If you’re expecting, one of the first questions that comes up, often quietly, often late at night is when you’re supposed to book maternity and newborn photos.
And if you’re anything like most Lehigh Valley families I work with, you might not even be sure what to search for yet. You just know you don’t want to miss this season.
This guide is here to gently walk you through the timing, without pressure, overwhelm, or rigid rules — just clarity.
When to Book Maternity Photos
The sweet spot for maternity photos is typically between 28–34 weeks.
At this stage:
- Your bump is beautifully defined
- You’re usually still comfortable moving and standing
- You haven’t hit the final stretch fatigue
That said, there’s flexibility. Every pregnancy is different, and your comfort always comes first. If you are struggling with ideas for your maternity session, check my site out to help with the vibes!
Spring & Summer Maternity Sessions in the Lehigh Valley
For spring and summer maternity photos, it’s best to plan a bit earlier. Outdoor sessions book faster during these months, and light plays a big role in the final look of your images.
I recommend:
- Reaching out early in your second trimester
- Booking your date while you still have scheduling flexibility
- Allowing time for wardrobe styling and location planning
Whether your session is outdoors, in-home, or in studio, thoughtful planning allows the experience to feel calm instead of rushed.
When to Book Newborn Photos
Newborn photos are best booked during pregnancy, not after your baby arrives.
Why?
Because once your baby is here, your focus should be on rest, recovery, and settling in, not emails and scheduling.
Ideal Timing for Newborn Sessions
Most newborn sessions take place within the first 7–21 days after birth.
During this window:
- Babies are naturally sleepier
- Movements are slower and gentler
- Feeding rhythms are still flexible
Lifestyle newborn sessions, especially in-home offer even more flexibility. There’s no rush, no strict posing, and no pressure for everything to look perfect. If it is your time to book a newborn and you are in the Lehigh Valley area, check out my newborn packages here!
Booking Both Together: Why It Matters
Many Lehigh Valley families choose to book maternity and newborn photos together and for good reason.
Booking both:
- Secures priority scheduling
- Creates visual consistency across your images
- Allows your photographer to truly understand your story
Most importantly, it removes one more thing from your mental load during pregnancy.
What If You Feel “Behind”?
Here’s something important:
You’re not behind.
I regularly work with families who reach out later than planned sometimes weeks before delivery, sometimes after baby arrives. There’s almost always a way to create something meaningful.
The key is reaching out as soon as you start thinking about it.
A Gentle, All-Inclusive Approach
My approach to maternity and newborn photography is intentionally all-inclusive.
That means:
- Wardrobe guidance (and access to my curated client wardrobe)
- Location planning that fits your season and energy level
- A relaxed, storytelling approach that honors real life
You don’t need to have everything figured out. That’s part of what I’m here for.
Final Thoughts for Expecting Families
This season is fleeting but it doesn’t need to be stressful.
Booking early gives you options. Booking thoughtfully gives you peace of mind. And choosing an experience that feels supportive makes all the difference.
If you’re expecting and wondering when to begin, consider this your sign that now is the right time to start the conversation.
Serving Lehigh Valley families with maternity, newborn, and family photography rooted in connection, calm, and storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maternity & Newborn Photos
When should I book maternity photos?
Most expecting parents book maternity photos during the second trimester, with sessions typically taking place between 28–34 weeks. This timing allows for comfort, flexibility, and thoughtful planning.
When is the best time for newborn photos?
Newborn photos are best booked during pregnancy, with sessions scheduled within the first 7–21 days after birth. Lifestyle newborn sessions offer flexibility if your baby arrives earlier or later than expected.
Do you offer maternity and newborn photos together?
Yes. Many Lehigh Valley families choose to book both maternity and newborn sessions together to ensure availability, visual consistency, and a seamless experience.
What should I wear for maternity photos?
I provide full wardrobe guidance and access to my curated client closet. Together, we choose pieces that photograph beautifully and feel comfortable for your season, whether spring, summer, or fall.
Where do maternity and newborn sessions take place?
Sessions can be held in your home, outdoors in the Lehigh Valley, or in my studio. Locations are chosen based on your vision, comfort, and the time of year.
