Between hanging over a toilet, planning a registry, and setting up the nursery, it starts to really sink in that you’ll be joined by a little human soon; it’s special, unique, and a complete blur… so let’s talk about when to take newborn photos with that miracle you’ve been longing to meet for the last 9 months.
The best time to schedule newborn photos is when you’re still pregnant, usually around the middle of your second trimester or early third.
This guarantees a spot on my calendar for around the baby’s due date so I can plan accordingly with my client load! We’ll set a tentative date around then, and once baby is actually born, I simply ask parents to reach out a let me know so we can nail down the specific date and time.
Do newborn photos have to be taken within the first 2 weeks?
A lot of photographers will say that a session within the first 2 weeks is a must, but I like to be more flexible. The first month is ideal for your newborn photos for several reasons, but really, anytime within the first 6 months is still “newborn” in my book.
Home sessions are gentle and allow so much room for moving slowly, taking breaks, and keeping both mom and baby comfortable however they need during the session. Still, everyone has a different experience post-partum, and some babies have a tough time adjusting in the first few months, too. It’s always worth it to consider your own readiness and comfort when scheduling your newborn photos.
Some people feel excited to make photos in the early days as a family, but others would rather wait till they feel a little settled and baby is more alert and engaged. Both are totally fine.
Many photographers suggest sessions shooting earlier because babies change so rapidly in those early weeks. They also tend to develop baby acne and cradle cap as the weeks go on and can get more restless the longer they’re out of the womb. It’s also often easier to schedule a date early on because parents will have off during maternity leave directly after the birth, so life hasn’t resumed to all it normal business, yet.
But none of those things are show-stoppers in my book. I’ve seen and worked with babies who have colic to babies who have severe acne or eczema, and everywhere from the first 48 hours to 6 months old.
Babies are beautiful and perfect just the way they are, so don’t let the exact timing stop you from saying ‘yes’ to heartwarming newborn photos with your little one.
What if I’ve already had the baby?!
That’s okay! You can still reach out and it’s likely I’ll be able to work you in. I work with lots of families and babies, so I make a point to leave margin in my availability for things like weather-related or sickness reschedules. Planning ahead is always prefferred, but sometimes it’s hard to believe just how much you’re going to adore that little squishy babe (or how quickly they change!) until they’re on the outside 🙂
I don’t know how I feel about being photographed that early post-partum… can the session just be of the baby?
Oh mama, I hear you. But that’s a hard no. You worked and labored to grow and deliver this child. You (and your partner!) are a part of the story of life and family. A crucial part.
My job is to show you the beautiful detail of that truth, make you feel amazing, supported, and awake (I know it’s hard on 2 hrs sleep!) to your strength and beauty.
For that one hour we’re together and every time you look at the final photos.
Lifestyle newborn photos at home are so approachable and low-key – if you’re not ready when I first arrive, hand the babe off and finish your make-up with a cup of hot coffee. I promise, it’s happened before and I love it. No packing bags and trying to rush out the door for an appointment. Whew.
All my newborn sessions include the whole family – siblings, pets, and grandparents are all welcome.
Not everyone has to be involved the whole time, as we’ll do lots of breakdowns of different groupings – including baby by him/herself. Transitions for feeding, diaper changes, getting some fresh air, or warming up your beverage are all natural and expected part of the flow during sessions at home.
I’ll provide what-to-wear advice and even links to shop recommendations for items that photograph and fit well in your early weeks (and beyond!). It will feel good to get dressed in real clothes, shower, and put some makeup on (promise).
In my sessions, we’re not going for glamorous or fancy – just feeling like the best version of yourself. That’s sometimes hard to do in this season, but it’s my job to make images that seal that confidence and self-love in place. Trust me, you (and your babies!) will be glad you were in the frame.
Think we could be a great fit to create heartwarming, natural newborn photos together? Reach out here to get the ball rolling!
You may also like:
When should you book maternity photos?
