Timing is Everything – The Best Time to Take Maternity Photos in San Diego

When you're preparing for the arrival of your baby, there’s a lot on your mind. Between setting up the nursery, attending baby showers, and getting ready for this life-changing event, the weeks can feel like a whirlwind. But there’s one important thing you won’t want to miss out on during this exciting time: capturing beautiful maternity photos that document this milestone in your journey.

As a maternity photographer in San Diego, it is awlays such a pleasure to capture moms-to-be during this special time. While you’re in the midst of the nesting phase, scheduling a maternity photoshoot may not seem like something to help satisfy that feeling, but I promise it will. Those photos will serve as a precious memory of your pregnancy and a celebration of the life you're about to welcome into the world.

But the big question is: when is the best time to take maternity photos?

The Sweet Spot: 28 to 34 Weeks

The ideal time to schedule your maternity photoshoot is between 28 to 34 weeks of pregnancy, or roughly 7 to 8 months along. There are a few key reasons why this time is perfect:

1. Your Baby Bump is Just Right: By this point, your belly has fully popped, creating that lovely, round silhouette that looks amazing in photos. Earlier in your pregnancy, your bump might not be as prominent, and later, you may start to feel more uncomfortable.

2. Comfort is Key: Once you hit the 35-week mark, swelling, fatigue, and general discomfort may start to creep in. Scheduling your shoot earlier in the third trimester ensures you’ll still have energy and mobility, making for a more enjoyable experience. Plus, you never know if baby will want to make an early apperance, so don’t miss your opportunity to get these celebration of your pregancy photos.

3. The Glow: Many moms-to-be find that around 7 to 8 months, they’re feeling their best. Your body has settled into pregnancy, and that famous pregnancy glow is often in full effect. It’s the perfect time to celebrate your changing body.

If you're expecting multiples or have any pregnancy-related conditions, consider scheduling your session a bit earlier—around 26 weeks—to ensure that you feel your best.

San Diego: A Year-Round Outdoor Studio

One of the great things about living in San Diego is that you can schedule your maternity shoot almost any time of year, thanks to the gorgeous weather. That said, some seasons offer a little extra magic for your photos.

1. Spring (March to May): San Diego bursts into bloom during springtime. Locations like Balboa Park and Mission Trails come alive with greenery and wildflowers. The mild temperatures and vibrant colors make for a stunning backdrop.

2. Summer (June to August): Summer in San Diego is all about the beach! Think soft sand, clear skies, and golden sunsets. Early morning or late afternoon shoots at spots like La Jolla Shores or Coronado Beach are perfect for avoiding the heat and capturing that beautiful beach glow.

3. Fall (September to November): The warm, soft light of fall makes for dreamy maternity photos. Places like Los Peñasquitos Canyon showcase changing foliage and golden hues, making this season a top choice for outdoor sessions.

4. Winter (December to February): San Diego’s mild winters mean you can still have a beautiful outdoor session without braving the cold. Locations like Sunset Cliffs provide dramatic ocean views and fewer crowds, creating a peaceful atmosphere for your shoot.

No matter the season, there’s always a perfect location for maternity photos in San Diego. Just be sure to plan ahead, as popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during golden hour (the hour before sunset) when the light is the softest and most flattering.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve figured out the best time for your photos during your pregnancy, the next step is booking your session. As a San Diego-based maternity photographer, I’d love to help you capture this important time in your life. Let’s plan a session that reflects your style, whether it's on a beach, in a park, or anywhere in between.

Ready to book your maternity photoshoot? Contact me here, and let’s start planning your dream session. You’ll be so glad you did once you’re holding your little one and looking back at these beautiful memories.