Burkat Photography | Central New Jersey Maternity, Newborn & Family Photographer

If you’ve been thinking about booking a photography session—whether it’s to capture your growing baby bump, your brand-new bundle of joy, or your family just as they are right now—you might be wondering: When is the best time to schedule it?

As a maternity, newborn, and family photographer serving Central New Jersey, I often get asked this question. Here’s a little guidance to help you plan ahead so you can secure the perfect spot on my calendar and ensure the most meaningful experience for your session.

Maternity Sessions: 28–34 Weeks Is the Sweet Spot

The best time to photograph your maternity journey is between 28 and 34 weeks. At this stage, your bump is beautifully rounded and pronounced, but you’re usually still feeling comfortable enough to move around and enjoy the session.

Every pregnancy is different, of course—but this window offers the best combination of glow, energy, and that sweet anticipation of what’s to come. Sessions can take place outdoors or in my cozy, naturally lit studio in Mendham, NJ.

Pro Tip: It’s best to book your maternity session during your second trimester to ensure availability—especially if you’re planning a weekend session or want to bundle with a newborn session.

Newborn Sessions: Within the First 2 Weeks

For that dreamy, curled-up look, newborn sessions are ideally held when baby is between 5 and 14 days old. During this time, your little one is extra sleepy and still adjusting to life outside the womb, which makes for a peaceful and snuggly session.

Of course, I also welcome older newborns and have experience working with babies beyond the two-week window. But if you’re hoping for those squishy, sleepy poses, it’s best to plan ahead.

Pro Tip: Booking during your second or early third trimester ensures we can reserve a flexible session date around your due date.

Family Sessions: Think Seasonally (and Book Early!)

Whether you’re capturing golden hour in the fall, playful beach moments in the summer, or cozy holiday vibes in the studio, family sessions book out quickly—especially during peak seasons like spring and fall.

If you’re hoping for outdoor photos, aim to book 2–3 months in advance, especially if you have a specific location or season in mind (like cherry blossoms or autumn foliage). For studio family sessions, I offer a cozy, neutral space year-round that’s perfect for little ones.

Pro Tip: Planning ahead gives us time to discuss styling, location ideas, and what’s most important to your family right now—whether it’s a toddler’s new milestone or your last session before your oldest heads to college.

Final Thoughts: Early Booking = Less Stress + More Options

No matter the session type, the earlier you reach out, the better! Booking in advance allows us to plan your dream session, reserve your spot on my calendar, and ensure everything from wardrobe to timing is perfectly tailored to your story.

If you’re ready to get something on the calendar—or even if you’re just in the early stages of planning—I’d love to chat and help you find the best time for your session.

Let’s preserve your most meaningful moments—beautifully and intentionally.

📍 Serving Mendham, Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Peapack, Bernardsville and surrounding areas in Central New Jersey.

📧 inquire here

Mother cradling newborn on the bedroom floor while older sibling cuddles close; father lifts toddler onto the bed in a softly lit, neutral-toned room — captured during an in-home newborn and family session in Central New Jersey.
Barefoot mother sits with her baby and young son by a large window in a light-filled photography studio in Mendham, NJ, capturing relaxed family moments in a bedroom-inspired setting.
Mother sitting on a window seat with her three young children in a cozy, naturally lit photography studio in Mendham, NJ. Soft light filters through large windows as the family shares a tender, candid moment.
Couple holding hands and walking through a tall grassy field during golden hour; candid outdoor photography session in the rolling hills of Far Hills, New Jersey.
Mother sitting barefoot in the sand, holding toddler close while watching the sunset at Sea Bright beach in New Jersey — natural and intimate motherhood photography.
Father lifting toddler in the air while mother holds newborn nearby, all barefoot and cozy in their warmly lit living room — candid in-home family session in Rockaway, NJ.
Family of five standing together on a lakeside cliff under a cloudy sky, wrapped in connection with autumn trees in the background — outdoor family photography session in Stanhope, New Jersey.
Father playfully lifting toddler near a bright window as mother smiles while holding newborn — lifestyle newborn and family session in a sun-filled home in Basking Ridge, NJ.
Family of four standing in a lush field at sunset, with dad carrying toddler on shoulders and mom holding newborn — warm, joyful outdoor family session in Mendham, NJ.
Expecting mother in a flowing blush gown striking a confident pose in an open meadow under moody skies — elegant maternity photo session in Far Hills, NJ.
Mother-to-be seated on the bedroom floor holding baby's breath flowers while partner kisses her forehead — emotional, cozy maternity session in a light-filled studio in Lafayette, NJ.
Pregnant woman in black bikini soaking in the sun by a poolside, embracing the beauty of motherhood during a warm, golden maternity session. Located in Asbury Park, NJ.
Close-up of a sleeping newborn nestled against mother's chest in a soft knit sweater — cozy, heartfelt newborn photography in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Newborn baby peacefully sleeping with hands gently cradling their head, wearing a textured cream knit romper — detailed lifestyle newborn portrait in Morris County, NJ.
Parents sitting on a bed with three young children, including a newborn and siblings snuggled close — cozy and connected in-home family session in Summit, NJ.
Toddler looking at the camera while being held in mother’s arms, surrounded by soft floral tones — motherhood session filled with tenderness and connection in Princeton, NJ.
Father lifting baby into the air with ocean waves and soft sunset light in the background, as mother smiles beside them — joyful family session in Sea Bright, NJ.
Newborn baby lying peacefully in a soft, knit romper on a cozy lounger with sibling’s hand resting gently nearby — lifestyle newborn session in Budd Lake, New Jersey.
Joyful family of four reflected in a mirror, with dad holding toddler on his shoulders and mom cradling a newborn — warm in-home family session in Morristown, NJ.

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