When Should You Book Maternity Photos?
If you’re pregnant and starting to think about maternity photos, you might be wondering when the right time is to book your session.
As a maternity photographer serving families throughout Southern California - including Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Riverside, Fallbrook, Oceanside, Vista, Carlsbad, Corona, Moreno Valley, Orange Mission Viejo - this is one of the most common questions I receive.
The short answer:
Book your maternity session during your second trimester. The best time to photograph your maternity session is typically between 28-34 weeks, but the best time to secure your date is around 20-24 weeks.
Why Booking Early Matters
Maternity sessions in Southern California tend to fill quickly, especially during spring and fall. Many of my clients from Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Riverside, Moreno Valley book as early as 18-22 weeks to ensure they have access to:
Their preferred session date
My curated client gown collection
Time to plan hair and makeup
a relaxed, stress-free experience
Waiting until 30+ weeks can limit availability - especially for weekend sessions in Riverside or Murrieta.
The 28-34 Week Sweet Spot
This window works beautifully for most moms because:
Your bump is round and prominent
You still feel comfortable moving and posing
Swelling and fatigue are usually manageable
You’re not in “baby could arrive any day” mode
Of course, every pregnancy is unique, and I help guide each client based on how they’re feeling.
A Studio Maternity Experience
All maternity session are photographed in my private studio, where every detail is designed to create a calm, comfortable, and elevated experience. Studio maternity photography allows for beautifully controlled lighting that highlights your bump in the most flattering way. There no worry about weather, wind, heat, or rescheduling - just a relaxed environment where you can feel confident and fully taken care of.
My studio clients from Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Riverside, and throughout Southern California love the privacy and intentional feel of an indoor session. You’ll also have access to my curated gown collection, making the planning process implementation and seamless.
The result is a soft, timeless look that keeps the focus exactly where it belongs. - on you and this season of motherhood.
Pro Tip: Reserve Newborn Photos During Pregnancy
Most families in Murrieta, Menifee, Oceanside, Corona, Riverside and Moreno Valley book their newborn sessions at the same time as maternity. Since newborn photography is photographed within the first 5-14 days after birth, securing your due date early ensures availability.
Ready to Plan your Session?
Head2Tho Photography is a maternity and newborn photogrpaher serving families across Southern California, including Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Riverside, Oceanside, Corona, Irvine, Orange, Mission Viejo.
If you’re currently in your second trimester, now is the perfect time to reserve your session.
Inquire here to being planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book maternity photos in Southern California?
Most clients book during their second trimester to secure availability
Do you offer maternity session near Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula?
Yes, I serve clients throughout Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Riverside and surrounding areas.
What if I live in Irvine and Mission Viejo?
Many families travel for their maternity and newborn session.