What is the Best Time for Maternity Photos in New York?

 As a boudoir and portrait photographer in New York, one of the most common questions I get from expecting mothers is, “When is the best time to take maternity photos?” It’s an important question, and I love guiding women through this special part of their lives. Pregnancy is a journey filled with excitement, change, and beauty. Capturing that glow at just the right time makes the photos even more meaningful.



I’ve photographed many mothers-to-be across the city, from cozy indoor sessions in studios to outdoor shoots in Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and even rooftop spots with sweeping views of the skyline. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that the timing of maternity photos can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel and how stunning the final images turn out.

Let me walk you through my personal thoughts on the best time for maternity photos in New York.

The Golden Window: 28 to 34 Weeks

Most photographers, myself included, recommend scheduling maternity photos between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. This is around the seventh to eighth month. By this point, your belly is beautifully round and noticeable, but you’re usually still comfortable enough to move around, pose, and enjoy the session.

Why is this window so perfect? Before 28 weeks, your baby bump might not be as pronounced, especially if it’s your first pregnancy. After 34 or 35 weeks, many women begin to feel more tired, swollen, and less comfortable. Some even risk going into early labor, which makes scheduling tricky.

During the 28 to 34-week period, you’re in that sweet spot where the belly looks amazing, and your energy level is still fairly high. You can stand, sit, walk, or even do more creative poses without feeling overwhelmed.

Every Pregnancy is Different

Of course, no two pregnancies are the same. Some women show earlier, while others don’t get a round belly until later. If this isn’t your first pregnancy, your bump might appear sooner, which means you could schedule photos earlier than 28 weeks. On the other hand, if you’re carrying small, you might want to wait until closer to 34 weeks.

As a photographer, I always encourage moms to listen to their bodies. If you’re still feeling strong at 36 weeks and want to document the very last part of your pregnancy, that’s completely fine too. The key is to choose a time when you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate your journey.

Considering New York’s Seasons

Another factor that makes timing important in New York is the season. Our city experiences all four seasons, and each brings its own style and mood to maternity photos.

  • Spring (March–May): One of my favorite times for maternity shoots. Central Park blooms with cherry blossoms, and the weather is mild. Your photos will have soft, romantic colors.

  • Summer (June–August): Warm weather and longer daylight hours mean more flexibility. Rooftop sunsets are stunning in summer. But it can get hot, so I recommend early morning or evening sessions.

  • Fall (September–November): The golden leaves and crisp air make fall magical. New York’s parks are filled with vibrant reds and oranges, perfect for cozy maternity outfits.

  • Winter (December–February): Fewer people outdoors mean more privacy, and snowy backdrops can look breathtaking. Indoor studio sessions are also popular in the winter for a glamorous and cozy vibe.



When scheduling, I always consider the season along with the pregnancy timeline. For example, if you’ll be 30 weeks in October, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—perfect timing for your bump and beautiful autumn scenery.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Sessions

Some moms wonder if the best time depends on whether they want indoor or outdoor photos. In my experience, the pregnancy stage matters more than the location. But New York weather can definitely play a role.

For indoor sessions, like studio maternity or boudoir maternity photos, timing is flexible since you don’t need to worry about weather. You can focus more on how you’re feeling physically. For outdoor sessions, I recommend keeping an eye on the forecast and planning around comfort.

The best part about being in New York is the variety. You can have timeless indoor portraits in a studio one day and natural outdoor shots in the city streets another. Both highlight your journey in unique ways.

Planning Ahead

Maternity photography in New York is in high demand, especially in the spring and fall. I always suggest booking your session at least 2–3 months in advance. That way, you can reserve the best time around your 28–34 week mark and also secure your dream location.

Planning ahead also gives you time to pick outfits, whether that’s flowing maternity gowns, cozy sweaters, or even lingerie for more intimate boudoir-style portraits. You’ll also have space to pamper yourself—maybe get your hair and makeup done, which makes the experience feel even more special.

Why Timing Really Matters

The goal of maternity photography isn’t just to show your belly—it’s to capture the beauty of motherhood, the anticipation of welcoming a new life, and the strength of your body. By choosing the right time, you’ll feel more relaxed and glowing, and that energy will shine through in every image.

Some of my favorite sessions have been with women right around 30 weeks. Their bellies were beautifully round, they had that pregnancy glow, and they still had the energy to laugh, move, and enjoy the process. The joy in their eyes was unforgettable, and it translated perfectly into the photos.

My Final Advice

If you’re an expecting mom in New York and you’re wondering when to book your maternity photos, aim for the 28–34 week range. Think about how your pregnancy is going, consider the season, and plan ahead so you feel prepared.

Most importantly, trust your instincts. If you feel ready earlier or later, go with what feels best. These photos are about you and your journey, and there’s no “wrong” time to celebrate motherhood.

New York offers endless backdrops—city skylines, blooming gardens, autumn leaves, snowy parks—and your pregnancy adds its own magic to the scene. By choosing the right time, you’re setting yourself up for photos that you and your family will treasure forever.

Closing Thoughts

Every time I photograph an expecting mother, I’m reminded of the strength and beauty that comes with pregnancy. There’s something so powerful about documenting this moment in life, and the right timing makes all the difference.

So, if you’re planning your maternity session, think about that golden window of 28–34 weeks, but also remember that your comfort and confidence are what truly matter. Whether it’s spring blossoms, fall leaves, or a cozy studio session, your story is worth capturing—and New York is the perfect place to tell it.


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Boudoir Photography by Your Hollywood Portrait

247 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

646-209-8198



Location: Brooklyn, NY, USA

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