A pregnancy announcement is a moment worth celebrating, and what better way to do it than with beautiful, heartfelt photos? As a East Bay Area Maternity & Newborn photographer specializing intimate, authentic photography, I love collaborating with new parents to plan the perfect pregnancy announcement photos.
Whether you’re planning a creative reveal for social media, sending out announcements to family and friends, or simply wanting to document this milestone for yourself, the timing of your photoshoot plays a big role. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best time to take pregnancy announcement photos, how to plan the perfect session, and fun ideas to make your reveal uniquely you.
Best Time to Take Pregnancy Announcement Photos
Choosing when to schedule your pregnancy announcement photos is a personal decision, but it’s also one that affects how you’ll feel in the photos, how visible your baby bump is, and even how much energy you’ll have for the session. While some parents-to-be can’t wait to share their joy immediately, others prefer to wait for just the right moment.
So, when is the perfect time to capture this special chapter?
Ideal Pregnancy Announcement Timeline
Most parents-to-be schedule their pregnancy announcement session between 12-15 weeks of pregnancy. This timeframe strikes the perfect balance between showing a hint of a bump, feeling good in your body, and having peace of mind before sharing the news.
That said, some couples prefer to announce earlier, while others wait longer—there’s no “one-size-fits-all” rule. Here’s what to consider:
Why 12-15 Weeks is the Best Time for Announcement Photos
1. Visibility of the Baby Bump
At this stage, some moms-to-be have a tiny, adorable bump—just enough to showcase the excitement of pregnancy, but not so big that posing feels uncomfortable. If you want to highlight your growing belly, this is a great time to do so!
2. Lower Risk & Peace of Mind
For many expectant parents, waiting until after the first trimester feels right. By 12 weeks, most medical professionals say that the risk of miscarriage significantly drops, making it a time when many feel more comfortable sharing their pregnancy publicly.
3. Increased Energy & Comfort
The first trimester can be rough—hello, morning sickness and exhaustion! But by the second trimester, many women experience a surge in energy and start feeling more like themselves. This makes for a much more enjoyable and relaxed photoshoot experience.
When to Announce Earlier (10-12 Weeks) vs. Later (After 20 Weeks)
- Early Announcements (10-12 Weeks): Ideal for those who are eager to share the news and don’t mind announcing before the first trimester ends. If you opt for the genetic blood test, you also may know the gender by this point making it possible to do a pregnancy announcement & a gender reveal.
- Later Announcements (After 20 Weeks): Some parents wait until the anatomy scan or when the baby bump is more prominent. This is also a great time to combine your pregnancy announcement with a gender reveal if you wait to find out the gender until the 20 week ultrasound.
Tips for Planning a Beautiful Pregnancy Announcement Photoshoot
What to Wear for Your Pregnancy Announcement Photos
Flattering Outfit Ideas
Choosing the right outfit can make all the difference in highlighting your excitement and your growing bump! I always recommend:
✔ Fitted dresses (like bodycon styles) to gently showcase your belly
✔ Flowy dresses with a cinched waist for a soft, romantic feel
✔ Classic jeans with a button-down for a cozy, casual vibe
✔ Lace gowns or soft neutrals for an ethereal, timeless look
Coordinating with Your Partner & Family
If your partner or kids are joining in on the fun, aim for cohesive, complementary outfits rather than matching exactly. Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you.
Choosing the Perfect Location
- Outdoor sessions offer natural light, stunning backdrops, and a fresh, airy feel. Think golden hour in a field, a coastal overlook, or a quiet nature trail.
- Indoor sessions (such as an in-home lifestyle shoot or a photography studio) offer a cozy, intimate feel, perfect for winter announcements or minimalist aesthetics.
- Sentimental Places for Your Announcement: Consider a location with personal meaning—perhaps where you and your partner met, where you got engaged, or a favorite weekend getaway spot.
Incorporating Props for a Personal Touch
Props aren’t necessary, but they can make your photos even more meaningful! A few thoughtful ideas:
🍼 Ultrasound Photos & Baby Shoes – A classic way to show off your little one before they arrive.
💌 Letter Boards & Fun Signs – Display your due date, a sweet message, or even a funny “Loading…” sign for a playful touch.
Creative Ideas for Your Pregnancy Announcement
Seasonal-Themed Pregnancy Announcements
Let nature set the stage for your big reveal!
🍂 Fall: Pumpkins with “Baby Coming Soon” written on them
❄ Winter: Cozy sweaters and holiday-themed signs
🌸 Spring: A floral-filled field with a “Blooming Soon” message
☀ Summer: Barefoot on the beach with baby shoes in the sand
Including Siblings in the Announcement
If you have older children, let them be part of the fun!
- A sign that says “Big Brother” or “Big Sister”
- A cute outfit that hints at the big news
- A candid moment of them kissing mama’s belly
Fun & Playful Ways to Share the News
If you love a little humor, get creative with:
- A sign that says “Eating for Two” while holding your favorite snack
- An “Eviction Notice” on your toddler’s crib
- A baby onesie that says “Coming Soon”
Pet-Inclusive Pregnancy Announcements
Your furry friend is part of the family, too! Have your dog or cat wear a bandana that says “Guard Dog Duty Starts [Due Date]” or include them cuddled up next to your ultrasound photo.
Make Your Pregnancy Announcement Unique & Memorable
At the end of the day, your pregnancy announcement should feel authentic to you. Whether you choose a sentimental, playful, or seasonal theme, the most important thing is that it reflects your excitement and joy.
I’d love to help you create beautiful, timeless images to celebrate this milestone! If you’re ready to plan your pregnancy announcement session, let’s chat and make it happen. Click here to send me an inquiry today!
