One of the most common questions I receive from expecting parents is:
“When is the best time to have newborn photos taken?”
The short answer? Most newborn sessions are photographed within the first two weeks after birth. But the longer answer is that the “best” time is different for every family.
As a lifestyle newborn photographer, I believe there is beauty in every stage of your baby’s first few months. Whether your little one is five days old, three weeks old, or already flashing those first gummy smiles, there are precious memories worth preserving.
The First Two Weeks: Tiny, Sleepy and Brand New
The first 7-14 days are often considered the ideal window for newborn photography.
During this time, babies tend to sleep more deeply, curl naturally into those womb-like positions, and still have all those fleeting newborn features that change so quickly.
Tiny fingers.
Wrinkly toes.
Soft eyelashes.
That brand-new baby smell.
These early days pass in the blink of an eye.
If you’re hoping for those peaceful, sleepy images, I recommend booking your session during pregnancy so I can reserve space around your due date.
2-4 Weeks: A Little More Time to Breathe
Let’s be honest—those first couple of weeks can be overwhelming.
You’re recovering from birth, adjusting to life with a newborn, and learning your baby’s unique rhythm. For many families, waiting a little longer simply feels right.
The wonderful thing about lifestyle newborn photography is that there is no pressure to fit into a tiny window of time.
At 2-4 weeks old, babies are still beautifully small and cuddly, but often begin showing more stretches, expressions and awake moments. These sessions feel relaxed, natural and centred around connection rather than perfect poses.
6-12 Weeks: Personality Begins to Shine
If you’re worried you’ve left it too late, please don’t.
Some of the most heartfelt images happen when babies are a little older.
Around 6-12 weeks, your baby may begin making eye contact, offering their first smiles and showing glimpses of their emerging personality.
Instead of sleepy poses, we focus on interaction:
- The way they look up at you
- Tiny smiles and expressions
- Family cuddles
- Gentle play and connection
- The love that has grown between you
These photographs tell a different story, but they are every bit as meaningful.
When Should You Book?
I recommend booking your newborn session as soon as you decide this is something you’d like to document.
Rather than choosing an exact date, I’ll reserve availability around your due date. Once your baby arrives, we’ll select a session time that feels comfortable for your family.
Whether your little one arrives early, late, or somewhere in between, we’ll work around their timeline.
Have I Missed the Newborn Stage?
This is the question I hear most often.
And my answer is always the same:
No.
You haven’t missed anything.
You’ve simply arrived at a different chapter of your story.
The most important thing isn’t capturing your baby at the “perfect” age. It’s preserving the memories before they become distant ones.
Because one day those tiny fingers won’t wrap around yours.
The late-night feeds will become a memory.
And the baby sleeping on your chest will suddenly be running through the backyard.
Photographs help you hold onto those moments long after they’ve passed.
If you’re expecting a baby or have recently welcomed one into your family, I’d love to help you document this beautiful season of life. Download my current Pricing Guide here. If you have any questions on my session or pricing details, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch today!
