When Is the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos?
One of the most common questions I hear from expecting parents is: “When should we schedule our newborn photos?”
The short answer? Ideally, your newborn session should take place within the first few weeks after your baby arrives.
When should I book my newborn session?
I recommend booking your newborn session during pregnancy, rather than waiting until your baby is born. When you book ahead, we can plan around your estimated due date and reserve space on my calendar for your little one.
Your exact session date can then be finalized once your baby arrives.
How old should my baby be?
For those sleepy, curled-up newborn portraits, I typically recommend scheduling your session when your baby is around 5–21 days old.
During those first few weeks, babies are often more content being gently posed, wrapped and cuddled. They also tend to sleep more deeply, which allows us to create those beautiful, peaceful newborn images.
That said, there is absolutely no need to worry if your baby is older than 21 days.
Every baby is different, and beautiful newborn photographs can still be created beyond this window. Older babies may simply be more alert, awake and interested in the world around them—and we can embrace that too.
What if my baby arrives early or late?
This is completely normal!
Your due date is simply our starting point. Babies rarely arrive exactly when expected, so I keep your estimated due date in mind when planning my newborn calendar.
Once your baby arrives, we will connect and choose the best available date for your session.
What if my baby doesn't sleep?
Don't worry—your baby does not have to sleep for their entire session.
Some of my favourite newborn images happen when babies are awake. We can take our time, allow for feeding and cuddling, and follow your baby's cues throughout the session.
There is no need to rush or force your baby into anything.
The goal isn't to make your baby behave perfectly for the camera. The goal is to capture this incredibly short chapter of your life exactly as it feels.
What if we're not ready right away?
That's okay too.
Having a new baby is a huge adjustment. You are learning your baby, recovering from birth and figuring out your new routine. My newborn sessions are designed to be relaxed and flexible.
There is no expectation that you arrive with everything perfectly organized.
Your baby sets the pace.
Whether they need to feed, be changed, cuddled or simply take a little break, we have time.
These first few weeks pass incredibly quickly. The tiny fingers, sleepy expressions, little stretches and the way your baby fits perfectly in your arms are moments you will never get back.
That's why I believe newborn photography isn't just about photographing a tiny baby.
