When Do We Shoot Maternity Photography Sessions? – Elizabeth Lang Photography
At Elizabeth Lang Photography, one of my absolute favorite types of sessions is maternity photography. It’s such a magical time for families, full of excitement and anticipation as you await the arrival of your little one. The glow of a mother-to-be is simply beautiful, and I love helping capture that unique moment in time.
If you're expecting and looking to document this special stage of your pregnancy, you might be wondering: When is the best time for your maternity photoshoot? Well, I’ve got you covered! I offer maternity sessions on Friday evenings, starting at 6:15 PM.
Here’s why I’ve chosen this time and how the session will flow:

Why Friday Evenings?
Scheduling your maternity session on a Friday evening offers a number of benefits, both for you and for my schedule. Here are the key reasons why this is the perfect time for your photoshoot:
- Timing for Perfect Light: The golden hour—the magical time just before sunset—offers the most flattering and soft natural light for maternity portraits. Starting at 6:15 PM ensures we capture the best lighting possible, giving your photos a warm, glowing effect that highlights your pregnancy glow in the most beautiful way.
- Keeping Weekends for Family & Newborn Sessions: By scheduling maternity shoots on Friday evenings, I’m able to dedicate my Saturdays and Sundays to longer sessions, such as family photoshoots and newborn sessions. This ensures that my weekends are set aside for the bigger, more time-intensive shoots, giving me more flexibility and focus for those clients.
- A Relaxed Start to the Weekend: Having your maternity session on a Friday evening also makes it easier for you to transition into the weekend. You can enjoy the shoot without the pressure of weekday commitments, and afterward, you have the whole weekend ahead to relax and enjoy being pampered.
How Does the Maternity Session Flow?
Maternity sessions typically last about 1 to 1.5 hours. The flow of the session is designed to be relaxed, and I aim to create a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for you. Here’s how it typically goes:
- Siblings First: If you have older children who will be part of the shoot, we begin by focusing on them. It’s a great time to capture sibling portraits and include them in your maternity photos. Whether they’re gently holding your baby bump or giving you a sweet hug, we’ll capture those precious moments first, while they are still fresh and full of energy.
- Mom-Only Shots: Once we’ve gotten the sibling photos, we’ll shift the focus to mom. This is your time to shine! I’ll guide you through different poses that highlight your beautiful pregnancy, using both natural settings and carefully chosen backdrops to create a variety of looks.
- Whether you want soft, dreamy shots with flowing fabrics, or more intimate portraits with personal touches, I’ll work with you to create a session that truly reflects your style and vision for your maternity photos.
- Comfort and Relaxation: A maternity session should feel like a special experience, not a rushed chore. I’ll ensure we go at your pace, allowing you to feel relaxed and comfortable the whole time. From wardrobe suggestions to posing advice, you won’t have to worry about a thing. I’ll take care of all the details!

Why Friday Evenings Are the Ideal Time for Maternity Photos
- Perfect for Busy Families: If you have young children or a busy schedule, having your session in the evening after dinner ensures you can easily get ready and won’t feel rushed. It’s a more relaxed time of day that doesn’t interfere with work or school commitments, making it easier for everyone to be present and focused on enjoying the moment.
- Stunning Sunset Light: The golden hour light is the magic hour for a reason. The natural light that comes just before sunset is soft, warm, and flattering—ideal for creating photos that feel both ethereal and intimate. We’ll capture those glowing moments as the sun begins to set, giving your images a gorgeous, natural radiance.
- A Break Before Baby Arrives: Pregnancy can be exhausting, and this shoot offers a chance for you to relax and celebrate your pregnancy before your little one arrives. It’s a time to pamper yourself, to slow down, and to embrace the beauty of this special chapter in your life.

Booking Your Maternity Session
Friday evening maternity sessions are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and they tend to fill up quickly, especially as your due date approaches. I recommend booking your maternity session at least 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure availability and give us plenty of time to plan the perfect shoot.
Ideally, maternity photos are best taken between 28-34 weeks of pregnancy, when your belly is beautifully rounded but you’re still feeling comfortable enough to move around and pose. This is the perfect window for capturing those glowing, stunning portraits.
How to Book
To book your Friday evening maternity session, simply get in touch with me via email or my website. I’ll be happy to discuss any ideas you have for your session and help you choose the best time to capture your maternity portraits.
Maternity sessions are one of the most joyful and memorable shoots I get to photograph. They celebrate the beauty and excitement of expecting a new little one. With Friday evening sessions, you’ll enjoy the perfect light, a relaxed pace, and a stress-free experience that will result in timeless, beautiful photos.
I can’t wait to capture this magical time for you and your family. Reach out today to reserve your spot for a Friday evening maternity session with Elizabeth Lang Photography. Let’s make your pregnancy glow shine through in every shot!
YOUR MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY