When Is the Best Time to Book a Maternity Photoshoot in Perth?

One of the questions I get asked most is:

“When should I book my maternity photos?”

There isn’t one perfect week for everyone, but there is usually a really good window where

your bump is beautifully visible and you’re still comfortable enough to enjoy the session.

For most pregnancies, I recommend having your maternity photos taken somewhere around 28 to 34 weeks.

The sweet spot: 28 to 34 weeks

By this stage, your bump is usually nice and round and photographs beautifully, but you’re hopefully not yet at the point where everything feels heavy and tiring.

Some women feel amazing well into the final weeks of pregnancy. Others start feeling uncomfortable much earlier. Every pregnancy is different, so I don’t treat 28 to 34 weeks as a hard rule.

It’s simply the window I usually recommend because it gives us a lovely balance between a visible bump and your comfort.

You also don’t need to wait until your bump is absolutely huge to get beautiful maternity photos.



What if baby might come early?

If you’re expecting twins, have had an early birth before, or your maternity team thinks there’s a chance your baby may arrive earlier, it can make sense to book your session a little earlier.

The goal isn’t to wait for the biggest possible bump.

The goal is to photograph this part of your pregnancy while you still feel comfortable enough to move around, connect with your family and actually enjoy the experience.

If you’re unsure about timing, you can always get in touch and we can work out what makes the most sense for you.

Why I wouldn’t leave it until the very end

I completely understand the temptation to wait until your bump is as big as possible.

But babies don’t always stick to our calendars, and the final weeks of pregnancy can be unpredictable.

By 36, 37 or 38 weeks, you may also be dealing with more pelvic pressure, swelling, tiredness or just that very familiar feeling of being ready to meet your baby.

That doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance if you’re already late in pregnancy.

If you’re 35, 36 or even 37 weeks and still feeling well, a maternity session may absolutely still be possible.

I just wouldn’t deliberately wait that long if you have the option to book earlier.







When should I actually book?

If you know you want maternity photos, I’d recommend enquiring well before you reach the week you want your session.

Outdoor sessions are usually photographed around sunrise or sunset, which means there are only a limited number of ideal session times each week.

Weekends can also be harder to secure, so booking ahead gives you more choice.

You can book your maternity session earlier in pregnancy and secure a date for later on.

That takes the pressure off and means we have time to plan the location, timing and what you’d like to wear.

What time of day is best for maternity photos in Perth?

For outdoor maternity photography in Perth, I usually photograph during the softer light around sunrise or sunset.

My favourite time is golden hour before sunset.

The light is much softer than the middle of the day and gives that warm, natural look you’ll see throughout my maternity galleries.

The exact start time changes throughout the year because Perth sunset times change so much between seasons.

When we book your session, I’ll recommend the best time based on your date and location.

What about the different seasons in Perth?

Every season can work beautifully for maternity photography, but each one feels a little different.

Summer

Perth evenings can still be very warm, especially when you’re heavily pregnant, so we may choose a later session time and a location that doesn’t require too much walking.

Beach sessions can be beautiful in summer, but comfort always comes first.

Autumn

Autumn can be such a lovely time for maternity photos.

The evenings are usually cooler, the light is soft, and outdoor sessions tend to feel more comfortable than they do in the peak of summer.

Winter

Winter doesn’t mean you have to skip maternity photos.

Perth winter weather can be unpredictable, so I keep an eye on the forecast and allow some flexibility if we need to move the session.

Clear winter evenings can also have beautiful soft light.

Spring

Spring brings warmer evenings, greenery and wildflowers in some locations.

It can be a beautiful time for outdoor maternity photography, especially if you love a softer, more natural setting.





Where do maternity sessions take place?

I photograph maternity sessions around Perth and south of the river, with locations chosen based on the feel you want for your photos.

That might be:

- the beach

- bushland

- gardens

- open fields

- somewhere meaningful to your family

I love locations with open space, soft light and enough room for things to feel relaxed rather than overly posed.

We’ll choose your location together once your session is booked.



Can my partner and kids come?

Absolutely.

Your maternity photos don’t need to be only about your bump.

Your partner and children are part of this season too, and I love including them.

We can photograph a mix of:

- you on your own

- you and your partner

- your children with your bump

- your whole family together

- the little in-between moments that happen naturally

I’ll still make sure we set aside time to photograph you and your pregnancy beautifully on its own too.





What should I wear?

You don’t need to have everything figured out before you book.

I can help you choose clothing that works with the location, the light and the soft, natural style of your session.

Neutral tones, earthy colours, soft textures and flowing fabrics usually photograph beautifully, but I still want you to feel like yourself.

You don’t need to dress like somebody else just because you’re having professional photos taken.

I also offer a Complimentary Client Closet for all my Mamas.





A little different when your photographer is also a Doula

Being both a doula and a maternity photographer means I’m very aware that pregnancy can change how your body feels from one week to the next.

We’re not going to spend your session forcing uncomfortable poses or rushing from one spot to another.

If you need to slow down, sit, change positions, have a break or take a minute, we do that.

I also understand how much can be happening emotionally in the final weeks before birth.

A maternity session can be a chance to spend an hour with your family, slow things down for a moment and document this version of your life before everything changes again.

So, when should you book?

For most women, somewhere around 28 to 34 weeks is a lovely time for maternity photos.

It gives you a beautiful bump while still leaving a bit of breathing room before your due date.

But if you’re outside that window, it doesn’t automatically mean you’ve missed your chance.

Pregnancy can feel so normal while you’re living it, but it’s such a short season in the story of your family.

One day, that bump will be the baby in your arms.

And having photos of this part of your story is something you’ll be able to come back to long after the pregnancy itself is over.







Ready to book your Perth maternity photos?

If you’re looking for a Perth maternity photographer and want relaxed, natural photos that feel like you, I’d love to hear from you.

You can view my maternity photography packages or send through an enquiry to start planning your session.

Mon xx

Golden Hour Doula & Photography

Perth, Western Australia



Serving families within approximately 30 km of Yangebup, with travel available beyond this area.