You have seen the two pink lines, heard their heartbeat, and felt the kicks! Now maternity pictures may be on your mind!

One of the most common questions I receive from expecting moms is, “When should I schedule my maternity photos?”

If you’re planning maternity photos in Pensacola, timing makes all the difference; not just for how you look, but for how you feel (which is just as important!).

Pregnancy can feel long in the beginning but before you know it the third trimester is here! Maternity photos are about preserving this tender stage before everything changes in the most beautiful way.

Here’s exactly what I recommend as a Pensacola maternity photographer.

The Ideal Time for Maternity Photos: 28–34 Weeks

For most moms, the sweet spot for maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks.

During this window:

Your baby bump is beautifully round and visible
You’re usually still comfortable enough to move easily
Swelling and fatigue tend to be more manageable
There’s less risk of delivering before your session

Every pregnancy is different! Some moms feel their best earlier, while others prefer waiting a little longer for a fuller bump. Generally, this timeframe creates the most flattering and relaxed maternity session experience.

Why Timing Matters for Maternity Photos in Pensacola

Here in Pensacola, Florida, the seasons also play a role.

Spring and Fall

These are some of the most popular times for outdoor maternity photos in Pensacola. The temperatures are mild, the light is soft, and beach sessions are especially beautiful.

Summer

Summer maternity sessions on Pensacola Beach are stunning, but the heat and humidity can be intense! In warmer months, I often recommend:

Sunrise sessions for cooler temperatures
Lightweight, breathable fabrics
Shorter, relaxed sessions
Sessions in my studio in Downtown Pensacola instead

Winter

Winter maternity photos in Pensacola offer gorgeous golden sunsets and fewer crowds on the beach. It’s a wonderful time for soft, neutral styling and layered textures.

Choosing the right time of year AND the right time of pregnancy helps ensure you feel beautiful and comfortable.

What If You’re Having Twins or a High-Risk Pregnancy?

If you’re expecting multiples or have a high-risk pregnancy, I typically suggest scheduling maternity photos a little earlier, typically around 26–30 weeks.

Twins and high-risk pregnancies often progress differently, and earlier sessions provide peace of mind while still capturing a beautiful bump.

Studio vs Outdoor Maternity Photos in Pensacola

Timing can also depend on where you’d like your session.

Outdoor Maternity Photos

Beach or field maternity sessions in Pensacola are best scheduled:

At sunrise or sunset
During cooler months if possible
Before 34 weeks for comfort

Studio Maternity Photos

Studio sessions offer:

AIR CONDITIONING (oh so important in the summer- if you know you know)
More flexibility later in pregnancy
A calm, intimate environment

If you’re unsure which direction to go, we can always talk through what fits your vision and comfort level best.

Don’t Wait Too Long to Book

While the ideal session timing is around 28–34 weeks, you should reach out much earlier, preferably during your second trimester.

As a Pensacola maternity photographer, my calendar often fills several weeks in advance, especially during spring through the fall. Booking early ensures you have flexibility in choosing your ideal date and location.

Why Maternity Photos Matter

This season can feel slow and fast all at once.

The kicks.
The anticipation.
The quiet before your world shifts.

Whether it’s your first baby or your eighth, maternity photos aren’t just about documenting a baby bump. They’re about honoring the transition into motherhood.

You may not be able to slow time. But you can pause it.

If you’re planning maternity photos in Pensacola and wondering when to schedule your session, I’d love to help guide you. Together, we’ll choose the timing that allows you to feel comfortable, confident, and beautifully documented in this chapter of your story.

Contact Me Here

Kristen Coberly is an award winning lifestyle photographer based in Pensacola, FL who specializes in photographing families, especially those with young children. As a mom of eight children under the age of ten, Kristen is equipped to help you capture the moments and memories (even the chaotic ones) you cherish during this beautiful stage of parenthood.

When Is the Best Time for Maternity Photos? A Refined Guide for Pensacola Moms

The Ideal Time for Maternity Photos: 28–34 Weeks