When Will I Start Showing During Pregnancy (and When Should I Take Maternity Photos)?

Wondering when you'll start showing in pregnancy? Learn when your bump appears and why 28–32 weeks is the best time to take maternity photos that you'll cherish forever.

If you’re newly expecting, this is probably one of the first questions you've typed into Google—and for good reason! That tiny bump is more than just a physical change. It’s a visible sign of the life you’re growing, and for many moms, the moment you start to “show” is when pregnancy starts to feel really real.

The answer? It varies!
Most first-time moms will start to show between 12 and 18 weeks, though it can take a little longer depending on your body type and how you’re carrying. Some first time momma’s don’t show, and then overnight your belly has popped up out of nowhere!

Mommas that have been through previous pregnancies often show earlier, sometimes as soon as 8–12 weeks! The abdominal muscles have already stretched from previous pregnancies, making your second, third, plus pregnancy feel like muscle memory for your body. Pretty cool, huh?

Once that little bump pops up, it’s totally natural to start imagining maternity photos—how you’ll look, how you’ll feel, and how you’ll want to remember this once-in-a-lifetime moment. Even if it’s not your first baby (every pregnancy is truly so different)! And that leads right into the next big question:

When Should I Take Maternity Photos?

The ideal time for maternity portraits is between 28 and 32 weeks pregnant.
At this point, your bump is beautifully round and well-defined, but you’re likely still feeling comfortable and pretty mobile. You haven’t hit that late-third-trimester fatigue, puffiness, or swelling that can sometimes sneak up just after 32 weeks.

This window is the sweet spot—it’s when you’re glowing, full of anticipation, and still feel like you.

Why You Should Book Your Session Early

(Like… Second Trimester Early)

Even though we won’t be photographing you until you’re around 28–32 weeks, I always recommend booking your session early in your second trimester (ideally around 20 weeks). But, Patricia… why so soon?

Because your pregnancy will move faster than you think! And maternity photographers (especially those of us who specialize in maternity and newborn photography) tend to book out several months in advance.

Booking early allows us:

• More flexibility in choosing a date that works best for you and your family’s schedule

• Time for personalized styling, trying on and finding the perfect maternity gown(s), and wardrobe guidance for the whole family

• Peace of mind knowing this important milestone is already planned out and taken care of

Plus, as a mom myself, I’ve learned firsthand how unpredictable pregnancy can be. Even as a first-time momma…

My Personal Story: Why Timing Really Matters

I thought I had time. I planned to do my own maternity photos a little later in my third trimester. (I’m a professional procrastinator.) And then my son knocked the wind out of my sails by arriving unexpectedly at 34 weeks. No warning, no extra prep time. Just go time. I went in for a routine appointment, and was having a emergency c-section later that night.

I’ve also had many clients—even first-time, low-risk mamas—deliver early around 33 or 34 weeks. Each of us that have delivered early always think we had more time… That’s why I always encourage moms to have their session by the 32-week mark.

Getting photos done earlier means you’re not only more likely to have them in hand before baby comes, but you’re also more comfortable in your body. You’re less swollen, your belly sits a little higher, and your energy levels tend to be better than it will be just a few weeks later (even though I know you are SO tired now!

This is Your Moment—Don’t Wait to Capture It

Pregnancy doesn’t last forever, even if some days it feels like it will. The truth is, your body is doing something absolutely extraordinary, and you deserve to have this chapter remembered.

These are the months where your love for your baby grows with every heartbeat, every little flutter, every ultrasound. It’s a transformation you’ll never go through in quite the same way again.

At Patricia Nicole Photography, I create a calm, fully guided experience that celebrates the beauty of this moment in a way that feels true to you. From wardrobe styling to heirloom-quality artwork, my goal is to make sure you feel confident, cared for, and proud of the images we create together.

Let’s get you on the calendar before your baby decides it’s time to make their big debut.
👉 Click here to inquire or book your maternity session