Planning to book your Maternity Photos? A local guide to beautiful maternity sessions on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers

If you’re googling “when should I book maternity photos?” — you’re not alone. Most of my maternity clients on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers ask the same thing when looking to book their maternity photographer and usually a bit later than they planned. Its so often I see a panicked pregnant mum asking on Facebook groups , because unfortunately by then , their chosen photographer may already be booked.

I understand completely , suddenly you are in your third trimester and wondering if its too late to book your maternity shoot or maybe the thought of of overly styled and posed photos makes you cringe and yet you know if you don’t do this you might regret it. And now you’re googling when you should book your maternity photos or natural maternity photo ideas. Its never too late to book and you can absolutely have photos of this season that are natural, creative and not contrived. If you want something that feels like you and is still artful , I’m for you and here’s what you need to know when looking at ( or thinking about )booking a maternity shoot.

Timing matters and this is an important season. Not just for how your bump looks but for how you feel during the shoot, as well as other logistics that may not be on your mind when a considering a maternity photos.

But every pregnancy is different and every mum is different too.
As a maternity photographer I have photographed sessions at 26 weeks and 36 weeks that were equally stunning. I have photographed a mum who went into labour the next day , so in that case timing was everything! I have photographed couples on their baby moon as early as 26 weeks . It really comes down to how you feel in your body, and what kind of photos you want. I have had mums in extreme discomfort , and in those cases I care DEEPLY for your safety so we move slowly to your comfort levels even if your shoot needs to be shorter. Beautiful photos are always possible.

What’s the Best Time to Book Maternity Photos?

Booking early (ideally in your second trimester) helps. In short we photograph bumps from 28 weeks – 36 weeks . Or thereabout. Booking a date should be confirmed by 28weeks. If you are in in your first trimester and researching , I hope you find this guide a helpful start!

Book your Maternity Shoot Earlier than later

Here’s why :

-Guarantee availability in my calendar, or for that matter any photographer’s calendar. Seasonal weather for any natural photographer plays a huge role . In summer months I book multiple dates to allow for rain because I know how fickle the weather is in these months and I want to have you covered.

– Gives us time to plan outfits, concept and choose the perfect location. My favourite shoots have always been the ones that are collaborative. I actually LOVE it when my clients have a pinterest board or inspiration photos ( some not even maternity photos ) it makes this process so much fun and a bespoke unforgettable experience AND you know your photos will be different to everyone else. I want you to have something true to you that your family will love in 20,30 ,40 years time.

-Take the pressure off so you can relax and enjoy the experience, I want this to be fun and artful.

What If I’ve Left It Late to Book a Maternity Shoot??

Don’t worry , if you’re further along, it’s still worth reaching out. I sometimes have last-minute spots, especially mid week , and I’ll always do my best to get this captured for you.

My partner doesn’t want to be in the photos? Can we still capture something meaningful ?

Yes! Your partner can choose to be present or not , please don’t let this season slip past because your partner didn’t want a photoshoot. My Maternity photoshoots are for either the whole family ( fur babies included) or just you soaking up this time.

Can I include partners, children or my pets in our Maternity Shoot?

Yes – anyone and everyone is welcome. Sometimes there are logistics around this ( a dog beach and child friendly location or even organising a grandparent to help with siblings during your photoshoot) , lets turn this shoot into a celebration of this chapter in your family’s life.

Locations & Outfits for Maternity Photoshoots

I photograph maternity sessions in-home, at the beach, or surrounded by nature. We focus on natural light, connection, and comfort creating images that feel like you, not just a pose. I don’t want your photos looking like everyone else’s and I wouldn’t want you to feel uncomfortable in any way. I shoot on Gold Coast beaches – from Burleigh to Currumbin , Kirra , Rainbow Beach , Cabarita Beach all the way to Byron and Lennox Heads. But we arent limited to beaches , only by our imagination so I would love to hear any ideas you have – I absolutely love collaboration.

On that note – while I don’t currently offer a wardrobe , I do offer styling advice . I want this shoot to really feel like you – if its in a bikini , button up shirt or flowing dress – what ever feels most like you. Lets prioritize comfort . I also love bare bellies , this doesn’t have to be totally topless , it can be a top that allows for this or a lacy bralette paired with a shirt or jeans. I find that the bare bump photos really photograph beautifully and show the power and honest beauty of what your body is doing. These often end up being client favourites.

Ready to Book?

You can browse my maternity work here or get in touch to chat about timing and ideas. I’d love to help you plan something special. And if you are in the researching phase and wondering what a maternity Photoshoot costs – visit my Maternity Photography Pricing here

📍 Serving: Gold Coast, Tweed Coast, and Northern Rivers