Welcoming a new baby into your family is one of life’s most incredible moments. Those first few weeks are filled with love, joy, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of exhaustion. But amidst the sleepless nights and endless snuggles, there’s a short window of time that’s absolutely perfect for capturing your baby’s tiniest details and sweetest expressions.
The ideal time for newborn photos is within the first two weeks after birth, typically between 5 and 14 days. During this period, babies are still very sleepy and curl up naturally into those adorable, womb-like poses. Their skin is usually clear, and they are more cooperative for those peaceful, dreamy shots that everyone loves. After two weeks, babies start becoming more alert, stretching out more, and may develop baby acne or peeling skin. While older newborn sessions are still beautiful, they can have a slightly different look and feel.
Since the ideal timeframe for newborn photos is so short, it’s best to plan ahead. I recommend booking your session during your second trimester to ensure availability. Many photographers, myself included, only take a limited number of newborn sessions each month to allow flexibility in scheduling once the baby arrives. When you book early, you’ll have one less thing to worry about during those last weeks of pregnancy.
If you’ve already passed the two-week mark, don’t stress. A newborn session can still be done. Older babies may not be as curly and sleepy, but they make up for it with sweet expressions and eye contact. Lifestyle sessions in your home can be a great option for capturing natural interactions and genuine moments between your baby and your family. If you’re not sure what type of newborn session is best for you, head over here to read my post about studio vs. lifestyle newborn sessions.
