When to Book Maternity Photos in Melbourne (2026 Guide)
Wondering when to book maternity photos in Melbourne? Discover the best weeks (30–34), what to wear, when to secure your session, and why Cranbourne North mums choose Kat Alora Photography.
When to Book Maternity Photos: A Melbourne Mum’s Guide (2026)
Pregnancy is one of the most transformative seasons of your life — filled with anticipation, excitement, vulnerability and wonder. Whether you’re preparing for your first baby or your fourth, documenting your pregnancy through professional maternity photography in Melbourne is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make.
And yet, one question comes up again and again:
When should I book my maternity photos?
If you’ve been searching for “when to book maternity photos Melbourne,” “best time for pregnancy photoshoot,” or “maternity photography near me Cranbourne North,” this guide is for you.
Let’s walk through the ideal timing, what to expect, what to wear, and how to make sure you don’t miss this fleeting chapter.

Why Timing Matters for Maternity Photos
Booking your maternity photoshoot at the right time makes all the difference.
Book too early, and your bump may not have that beautiful, rounded shape.
Wait too long, and you may feel physically uncomfortable, swollen, or simply exhausted.
The sweet spot? Between 30 and 34 weeks pregnant.
This is when:
- Your bump is full and beautifully defined
- You’re still comfortable enough to pose and move with ease
- The risk of early labour disrupting your session is lower
- You still feel connected to the anticipation — not just the countdown
For twins or multiples, booking earlier (around 28–30 weeks) is usually recommended.
And here’s something many Melbourne mums don’t realise:
Most professional maternity photographers book out months in advance — especially for autumn and spring sessions.
The ideal time to secure your session is during your second trimester.
Why Maternity Photography Matters More Than You Think
Pregnancy can feel long when you’re living it — but looking back, it passes in a blur.
Maternity photography isn’t just about documenting your bump. It’s about:
- Celebrating what your body is doing
- Honouring your journey into motherhood
- Creating keepsakes your child will treasure
- Pausing during a season that feels overwhelming
Many of my clients from Clyde, Cranbourne, Berwick, Officer and Narre Warren tell me the same thing after their session:
“I didn’t realise how special this stage was until I saw the photos.”
You may not always feel glowing — but through professional lighting, gentle posing and carefully styled wardrobe options, you’ll see yourself the way your family sees you.
Radiant. Strong. Beautiful.
Best Weeks for Maternity Photos (Melbourne 2026 Trend Insight)

In 2026, maternity photography trends in Melbourne are leaning toward:
- Soft neutral palettes
- Minimalist studio styling
- Textured fabrics and flowing gowns
- Intimate partner-focused portraits
- Timeless over trendy
Booking between 30–34 weeks ensures your bump photographs with that elegant curve that works beautifully with these modern, editorial-style looks.
Outdoor maternity sessions are especially popular during:
- Autumn golden light
- Spring blooms
- Mild summer evenings
Studio sessions remain the preferred choice year-round for comfort and climate control — especially during unpredictable Melbourne weather.
What to Wear for Your Maternity Photoshoot

One of the biggest concerns mums have is:
“What will I wear?”
At Kat Alora Photography, our Cranbourne North maternity photography studio offers an exclusive client wardrobe featuring over 50 designer maternity gowns, wraps, headpieces and accessories.
These are not everyday dresses.
They are:
- Designed specifically for photography
- Structured to flatter the pregnant body
- Flowing, draped and beautifully textured
- Available in neutrals and bold statement tones
From fitted silhouettes that sculpt your bump to dramatic flowing gowns with long trains, every piece is selected to enhance your shape and elevate your images.
And yes — wardrobe access is complimentary for your session.
No last-minute online shopping.
No outfit stress.
No second guessing.
Just guidance, styling support, and the confidence that you’ll look incredible.
Should You Include Your Partner and Children?

Absolutely.
Some of the most powerful maternity images happen in the in-between moments.
- A partner resting their hands on your bump
- A whispered joke that makes you laugh
- A toddler hugging your belly
- A quiet forehead touch
These moments add depth, warmth and storytelling to your session.
Maternity photography isn’t just about documenting pregnancy — it’s about documenting your family before everything changes.
And those images become even more meaningful once baby arrives.
When to Book Maternity Photos in Melbourne (Quick Answer Guide)
Here’s a clear breakdown:
Book your session: During your second trimester
Schedule your shoot: Between 30–34 weeks
Twins or multiples: 28–30 weeks
Popular seasons fill fastest: Autumn & Spring
Studio vs Outdoor: Studio for comfort, outdoor for seasonal glow
If you’re already past 34 weeks — don’t panic.
Beautiful maternity portraits can still be captured later in pregnancy. It simply means booking as soon as possible.
Why Melbourne Families Choose Kat Alora Photography

Located in Cranbourne North and servicing families across Melbourne’s South-East — including Clyde, Berwick, Officer, Narre Warren, Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula — Kat Alora Photography specialises in:
- Maternity Photography
- Newborn Photography
- Baby Milestone Sessions
- Cake Smash Photography
- Family Portraits
With years of experience in maternity and newborn photography, every session is thoughtfully guided to ensure you feel comfortable, confident and celebrated.
Our studio is designed for:
- Comfort
- Privacy
- Soft professional lighting
- Calm, baby-safe and family-friendly sessions
Many families choose to document their full journey — from maternity to newborn to first birthday — creating a cohesive story across the first year.
FAQs: When to Book Maternity Photos?
When should I book maternity photos in Melbourne?
Ideally in your second trimester for a session between 30–34 weeks.
Can I book last minute?
Sometimes, depending on availability — but peak seasons fill quickly.
Do I need to bring anything?
Ultrasound photos, baby shoes, sentimental items — optional but meaningful.
Is hair and makeup required?
Professional styling enhances your final look, but natural, minimal makeup photographs beautifully too.
What if I don’t feel confident?
You don’t need to. That’s my job — to guide, pose and light you in a way that celebrates your body exactly as it is.
Pregnancy Is Temporary. The Images Are Forever.
Your bump will disappear.
The kicks will stop.
This version of you — carrying life — will only exist for a short time.
Maternity photography freezes that season before it slips away.
Whether this is your first baby, your final pregnancy, or somewhere in between, booking your maternity photos in Melbourne is about preserving more than an image.
It’s about preserving a feeling.
Ready to Secure Your Maternity Session?
If you’re currently in your second trimester, now is the perfect time to reserve your maternity photoshoot in Cranbourne North.
View Maternity Photography Packages
Explore the Studio Wardrobe
Enquire About Availability
Because one day, your child will look at these photos and see where their story began.



