Congratulations on your pregnancy! Most expecting moms in the Cincinnati area start looking for their maternity photographer around week 16 -20 gestation. Scheduling your studio maternity session depends on a few factors. Here are some guidelines to help you plan:

1. Research: Researching your photographer can begin as soon as you know your expecting! You’ll want to look at reviews, inclusions (digital files, gowns, family inclusion, prints, albums), availability & if the photographer you’re interested in has a studio if that is important to you.

2. Trimester: The ideal time for a maternity photo shoot is usually during the 7th or 8th month of pregnancy. At this stage, your baby bump is usually prominent, but you are not yet too uncomfortable. Keep in mind that every pregnancy is different, so choose a time that you feel comfortable and confident. ** This is different for twin moms. Usually twin moms come into the studio for sessions between 24-26 weeks.

3. Photographer Availability: Some popular maternity photographers may get booked well in advance, so it's a good idea to start researching early to ensure you have a spot with the photographer of your choice. Reach out to photographers in your area to inquire about their availability and schedule. We are generally scheduling 3-6 weeks out.

4. Studio Availability: If you plan to have a studio maternity session, find out the availability of the studio you wish to use. Some studios might be in high demand, especially if they offer unique setups or props. Our studio is available only to our team. We do not rent out our studio to other photographers so our studio is generally scheduling 3-6 weeks out. Keep in mind that weekend dates book more quickly than weekday sessions. If a weekend is a must you’ll want to book sooner.

5. Personal Comfort: As mentioned earlier, choose a time when you feel most comfortable in your pregnancy. If you're experiencing discomfort or have certain limitations, it's better to schedule the session earlier or later, depending on your needs.

6. Editing and Delivery Time: Keep in mind that after the photo shoot, the photographer will need some time to edit the pictures before delivering the final product. Inquire about the expected turnaround time, so you can plan accordingly. Our studio turnaround time is approximately two weeks. If you’ll need prints for a baby shower, keep in mind our turnaround time plus print & delivery time.

7. Other Engagements: Consider your overall schedule and other engagements to pick a suitable date for the maternity session. Avoid days when you have other major events or commitments that may cause undue stress or fatigue.

In conclusion, starting your research and scheduling your maternity session around the 5th or 6th month of your pregnancy is a reasonable timeframe. This will give you enough time to find a photographer, secure a booking, and make any necessary preparations for the photo shoot. However, it's ultimately up to your personal preference and circumstances, so choose a time that works best for you. Enjoy this special time and capture those beautiful memories!