Pregnancy, It's a such a special time.


It really is a momentous time in our lives that passes so quickly and there's lots to think about, Names, prams, teeny tiny clothes, where to deliver your baby, maternity photos? Before you know it you've got your gorgeous baby in your arms and then you remember that tab you have saved on your phone with those photographers details you were going to contact about maternity photos, or, your suddenly regret deciding not documenting your pregnancy for you and your new small human to look at and talk about when they are older.


Documenting the here and now is so important to your life story!

On a beach on Hayling Island a maternity couple sit on a fallen tree laughing while the sun sets behind them.

“Me and my fiance was so nervous at first as this was our first experience of a photoshoot however Estella made us feel very relaxed and we had lots of laughs.”

So, When is the best time for a maternity session?

Generally bumps look well bloomed and Mumma's usually feel their best at the beginning of the third trimester, around the 30 weeks mark. After 32 weeks baby starts to zap your energy as they have their final growth spurt which may leave you tired, uncomfortable and not be able to move around safely in an outdoor location. Of course every pregnancy is different, some Mumma's bodies may bloom more quickly or you could be at 32 weeks with a lovely tiny bump. Either way you'll be glowing with pride and beauty for your maternity photos.

If you are expecting a multiple birth I would suggest scheduling around 20-24 weeks for your maternity photos as your bump will be well established by then and you will still be able to move around with more ease.

On a beach on Hayling Island an expectant Mum sits on a fallen tree looking at her baby bump while the sun sets.

When is the best time to book a maternity session?

The best time to get penciled in is around your 20 week scan, which will give you best chance of securing the best time and date for you and enough time to think of your preferred location and organise what you would like to wear. Your midwife may also be able to give you an idea on how baby is doing and any possibilities of an early delivery. Remember your due date is a guideline not a rule, babies like to show up when they are ready so scheduling for your maternity photo session too close to your due date could lead to you missing out completely if baby decides to make an early appearance!


The future you will be so grateful you took the time to celebrate the new contours of your body and your journey as a family.



On a beach on Hayling Island a maternity couple stand by the water, foreheads touching, while the sun sets behind them.
On a beach on Hayling Island, Hampshire, a maternity kiss.
On a beach on Hayling Island a maternity couple stand by the water, foreheads touching, while the sun sets behind them.
On a beach on Hayling Island a maternity couple sit on a fallen tree embracing while the sun sets behind them.

About the Author


Hi there! My name is Estella Ward, Owner of Entwined Photography. It's my mission to capture heartfelt joy and connection. I have always been drawn to photography that draws emotion and captures the spirit of the moment that you can almost hear the laughter in the photo.

I see such beauty in all the fleeting moments of time and I've carried that perspective with me into my adult life, especially since becoming a mother. Entwined Photography is a Family, Newborn and Maternity lifestyle photographer based in Havant, Hampshire and serves areas in and around Havant, Hayling Island, Portsmouth, Waterlooville, Fareham, Rowlands Castle and Chichester.

In a sunflower field on Hayling Island, Hampshire, a Mum sits on a hay bale laughing with her 2 year old daughter.

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