When to Schedule Maternity and Newborn Photos in St. Louis
Wondering when to schedule maternity and newborn photos? The timing can feel confusing, especially during pregnancy when so much is happening. This guide will walk you through exactly when to book and when to photograph each stage so you can feel confident and prepared.
As a St. Louis maternity and newborn photographer, I help families plan these sessions early so nothing feels rushed and no special moments are missed. One of the most common questions I’m asked as a St. Louis maternity and newborn photographer is:
🕐 "When should I book my maternity and newborn session?"
Let’s break it down by session type:
When Should You Schedule Maternity Photos?
Most maternity sessions are photographed between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.
During this window:
• Your bump is beautifully round and defined
• You are usually still comfortable moving and posing
• Swelling and fatigue are often more manageable
If you are expecting twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, consider scheduling closer to 26 to 30 weeks.
When to book your maternity session:
I recommend reaching out during your second trimester, ideally between 12 and 20 weeks. This ensures availability and gives us time to plan wardrobe, styling, and location.
💡 Pro Tip: The earlier you book, the more flexibility you’ll have with dates, locations, and styling!
My favorite Amazon baby registry picks for pregnant moms:
When Should You Schedule Newborn Photos?
Newborn sessions are typically photographed between 7 and 21 days after birth.
During the first two to three weeks:
• Babies are sleepier
• They curl naturally into classic newborn poses
• Skin tone and newborn features photograph beautifully
If you prefer a more awake, relaxed style, sessions can absolutely be done up to six weeks old.
When to book your newborn session:
The best time to reserve your newborn session is during your second trimester. We pencil in your due date, then confirm once baby arrives.
Booking early guarantees a spot on the calendar and removes stress during those first few weeks home.
That said—if your baby is already here, don’t worry! I often photograph older newborns with a more relaxed, natural style.
My favorite Amazon picks for new moms:
Ceres Chill Breastmilk Chiller - perfect when returning to work
Disposable baby diaper sacks- perfect for home and on the go
Why Timing Matters for Maternity and Newborn Photography
Pregnancy and newborn stages change quickly. Scheduling at the right time ensures:
• A defined maternity silhouette
• Comfortable posing for mom
• Sleepy newborn sessions
• Less stress for your family
Planning ahead allows everything to feel calm, guided, and intentional.
Maternity and Newborn Photography Timeline
Booking timeline:
• 12 to 20 weeks pregnant: Book maternity and newborn sessions
• 28 to 34 weeks pregnant: Photograph maternity session
• 7 to 21 days after birth: Photograph newborn session
If you're planning to document both maternity and newborn sessions, the Mama Bear Membership offers built-in savings and guided planning.
Planning early makes the entire experience smooth and relaxed.
What If I Am Already Late in My Pregnancy?
Do not worry. It is never too late to reach out.
If you are past 34 weeks, we can still create beautiful maternity portraits. If baby has already arrived, we can adjust the newborn session style to fit their age.
The most important step is simply reaching out.
Serving St. Louis Families
I photograph maternity and newborn sessions for families throughout St. Louis, O’Fallon, St. Peters, Lake St. Louis, Wentzville, and surrounding communities.
If you are expecting and wondering when to schedule maternity and newborn photos in St. Louis, I would love to guide you through the process.
📆 Ready to Reserve your session?
The best time to book maternity and newborn photos is during your second trimester to secure ideal dates.
Fill out the form below to inquire and begin planning your session. I will be in touch within 24 hours.
📷 Browse my outdoor and studio maternity sessions here
📷 Browse my studio newborn sessions here
If you are searching for a St. Louis maternity photographer or newborn photographer near O’Fallon, Missouri, my Winghaven studio offers a calm, guided portrait experience for growing families.
I specialize in maternity, newborn, milestone, and first birthday photography throughout St. Charles County and the greater St. Louis area. Both studio and outdoor sessions are available.
Each session is carefully planned so you can relax and enjoy this season while timeless artwork is created for your home.
Contact me today to begin planning your session.
Are you expecting a new baby soon? Check out my curated list of some of my favorite baby items HERE
and my list of must-have baby items for your registry list HERE
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Sargent Photography is a custom maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in O’Fallon, Missouri, serving families throughout St. Charles County and the greater St. Louis area. In addition to maternity and newborn portraits, studio and outdoor sessions are available for milestones, first birthdays, senior portraits, branding, and women’s empowerment photography.
