Whether you’re eagerly awaiting a new baby or looking to freeze time with your growing family, knowing When to Book a Photoshoot in Hawke’s Bay can make all the difference. As a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Hawke’s Bay, I’ve guided many families through this journey — and timing is one of the most common questions I’m asked.

Below are my recommendations to help you plan the perfect session with confidence.

🕰️ Maternity Photos – Book for 28–36 Weeks Pregnant

The sweet spot for maternity photography is between 28 and 36 weeks. At this stage, your bump is beautifully round and visible, but you’re still likely to feel comfortable and mobile.

Why this timing works:

• You’ve usually passed the tiredness of the first trimester
• Your bump has that lovely shape, but isn’t too heavy yet
• You still have flexibility in your schedule before baby arrives

💡Tip: Popular seasons in Hawke’s Bay book out early — especially spring and autumn — so it’s best to book your maternity session by your second trimester.

👶 Newborn Photos – Book Before Baby Arrives, Shoot in the First 2 Weeks

For those dreamy, curled-up newborn photos, it’s ideal to schedule your shoot within the first 5–14 days after birth. Babies are sleepier and easier to pose during this short window.

Booking advice:

• Book your newborn session while you’re still pregnant
• I pencil in your due date and remain super flexible around baby’s arrival
• Lifestyle sessions (especially in your home or outdoors) can be done up to 4–6 weeks old if needed

💡Note: If your baby has already arrived — don’t worry! I can still capture beautiful, emotive moments at any stage. Just reach out as soon as possible.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Photos – Book 1–3 Months Ahead (Especially for Seasons)

For family photoshoots in Hawke’s Bay, I recommend booking 1–3 months in advance, particularly if you want a weekend session or are aiming for peak seasons like golden autumn or wildflower spring.

Why book early:

• The best light (golden hour!) is limited each day
• Autumn and spring book out fast
• Gives you plenty of time to plan outfits and prepare the kids

💡Tip: Winter sessions can be magical too — think cozy knits, foggy fields, and warm cuddles. Plus, availability is often better!

📅 A Quick Booking Timeline Cheat Sheet

Session Type	Best Time to Book	Best Time to Shoot
Maternity	12–24 weeks	28–36 weeks pregnant
Newborn	Before birth	5–14 days after birth (though any age is absolutely fine x)
Family	1–3 months ahead	Year-round!

💬 When Should You Book?

The sooner, the better — especially if:

• You want a weekend or golden hour slot
• You’re aiming for a specific season or special date
• You’d like access to my client wardrobe for mums or help planning outfits

I limit the number of sessions I take each month to give every client the time, care, and attention their story deserves — so if you’re wondering when to book a photoshoot in Hawke’s Bay, now is always a good time to reach out.

🌿 Let’s Plan Your Photoshoot

Whether you’re glowing through pregnancy, snuggling a fresh newborn, or wrangling giggly toddlers, I’m here to help capture your family’s connection with warmth and intention.

👉 Check out my Family Session Pricing
👉 View the Client Wardrobe Collection
👉 Contact me here to get started — I’d love to hear your story.