Newborn Photography FAQs: When to Book and What to Expect
Bringing home a new baby is one of life's sweetest seasons. Despite the sleepless nights, and lack of predicability in life with a newborn, documenting this season is never a regret. We promise you’ll cherish these photographs for decades. Perhaps the most asked question is "When should I schedule my newborn session?"
The short answer? Earlier than you think.
If you're expecting and considering newborn photography, this guide will walk you through the ideal timing for scheduling. We also share more about everything you need to know about newborn sessions in this post.
When is the Best Time to Book Your Newborn Session
We recommend reserving your newborn session during your second trimester or early in your third trimester.
Many families are surprised to learn that newborn sessions are often book several months in advance. Reserving your session before your baby arrives ensures space on our calendar and allows us to prepare for your growing family's arrival.
You do not need to know your baby's exact birth date when you book. We take a limited number of newborn sessions and leave space for wiggle room in your session date in case baby comes early or late.
We simply reserve your due date on our calendar and adjust the session date once baby arrives. Once you deliver or have a scheduled delivery date, you will reach out to use to let us know, and we will finalize the best date for your session based on your delivery date and recovery.
What Is the Best Age for Newborn Photos?
For traditional sleepy newborn portraits, the ideal window is between 7 and 14 days old.
During these first few weeks, babies tend to:
Sleep more deeply
Curl naturally into those sweet newborn poses
Be easier to soothe between setups
Still have many of their fresh newborn features
That said, every baby is different, and beautiful photographs can be created at any age.
What If My Baby Is Already Older Than Two Weeks?
You have not missed your opportunity. The sweet baby in these portraits was over two weeks old. It doesn’t make the photographs any less special or memorable for this family knowing he was past the two week mark.
While younger newborns are often sleepier, older babies bring their own charm. Around four to eight weeks old, babies begin making eye contact, stretching out, and showing more personality.
If your baby has already arrived and you haven't booked yet, reach out anyway. We'll do our best to find a spot for you.
Do Parents and Siblings Participate?
Yes! While newborn sessions focus on your newest family member, we strongly encourage parents and siblings to be included.
Family images from this short season often become the photographs parents treasure most.
What Should We Wear?
First, we recommend you consider the style of your home. You’ll be displaying photographs in your own space, so we suggest choosing a style that is true to you and fits well with your interiors aesthetic. If you’re more laid back, go for simple combinations - think jeans and neutral tops or linen dresses, or a mix of neutrals and subtle patterns.
If you’re a little more high-end in your style, choose pieces that are slightly more dressy or structured.
A midi or maxi dress for mom is always a great idea too. Coordinate tones for the family rather than selecting matching outfits.
Creams, whites, soft blues, warm grays, and muted earth tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family's connection.
Avoid large logos, bright neon colors, and busy patterns that can distract from the images.
What Should I Have Ready for the Session?
It’s always a good idea to have a few things ready for your in-home newborn session:
Extra diapers
Bottles if bottle feeding, or a space ready to nurse
A pacifier if your baby uses one
Any sentimental heirloom items you'd like included
Otherwise, simply be ready to relax while we guide you and your family through the session time.
What If My Baby Won't Sleep?
This is probably the number one concern new parents share.
The good news? Babies don't have to sleep the entire session to create beautiful images. FUN FACT: The newborn in this session was awake until the last 10 minutes of the session. We were still able to capture a full gallery of beautiful photographs for their family, including portraits of snuggles with his toddler siblings, and tiny features like his toes and fingers.
Working with newborns has taught us to follow baby's lead. We allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and cuddles as needed.
Some babies sleep the whole time while others prefer to stay awake and curious.
Both scenarios create beautiful photographs.
How Long Does a Newborn Session Last?
Most in-home newborn sessions last between one and two hours.
This allows plenty of time for feeding breaks, soothing, and creating a relaxed experience for both baby and parents.
Our goal is never to rush your newborn. We work at their pace.
Why Professional Newborn Photography Matters
The newborn stage is one of the shortest seasons of childhood. And also, it’s one of the hardest to remember. Investing in newborn photography isn't simply about documenting how your baby looked. It's about preserving a season that passes before most parents are ready for it to end. You’ll look back as that little one grows grateful you took a few hours to pause and capture those precious first weeks of life.
Reach out to Book Your Newborn Session?
If you're expecting and would love timeless newborn portraits for your family, we recommend reaching out during your pregnancy to reserve your due date.
We'll take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most— soaking up every precious moment with your newest addition.
We would be honored to help you preserve this beautiful season for your family.
