Are you wondering when is the best time for a newborn photo shoot? Do you have questions about the ideal age for capturing those precious moments of your baby’s early days? Well, I’m here to provide some guidance!
Some newborn photographers suggest a very short age window for these sessions, typically within the first two weeks or even ten days after birth. However, I believe there’s more flexibility in choosing the right time for your newborn photoshoot. The best age for a newborn photoshoot is whenever it works for you and your family.
Life after welcoming a new baby can be hectic. You might have had a hospital stay or are simply adjusting to the demands of a new family member. Inviting a photographer to your home for a photoshoot might not be your top priority at that moment, but if the idea of a relaxed and stress-free session with lots of cups of tea appeals to you, then I could be the perfect newborn photographer for you.
When’s the best time for a newborn photoshoot?
As an experienced Hamphsire family photographer, I’ve captured tens of newborn babies. Based on my expertise, I recommend scheduling your newborn photoshoot around two weeks after your due date, if possible.
The ideal time, at least for me, is between 7 and 10 days after birth. At this age, babies are typically more relaxed, curled up, and sleepy, making it the perfect stage to capture those precious moments of your baby.
This age is ideal for documenting the serene moments of your baby sleeping, cuddling with parents, and capturing intimate shots of your baby’s features like their eyelashes, lips, and tiny feet.
It’s also a great time to include siblings in the photos. While your baby boy or baby girl might not be consciously smiling just yet, I’ve often managed to capture a few adorable grins even in the earliest newborn photoshoots
Planning for your newborn photography session
A conversation on Mumsnet suggests that only a small percentage of babies are born on their due date. Most babies are either early or arrive late. So, scheduling your newborn photoshoot two weeks after your due date is a practical choice, especially for first-time parents.
However, if you’re considering a studio photoshoot, where posed shots are the focus, the ideal age range is usually between 5-12 days, and rarely older. These posed shots, like babies in baskets or hammocks, require them to be very curled up and flexible, which changes as they grow.
My approach is different; I come to your home for a family photoshoot and don’t focus on these specific posed shots, so I’m happy to work with babies of any age.
Older babies
Babies older than two weeks are no longer as curled up and delicate as they were in their earliest days. They may start losing some of that adorable wrinkly skin and soft hair, and you might notice baby acne or cradle cap.
However, these factors shouldn’t deter you from having your baby photographed. With a bit of subtle retouching, we can work wonders on any minor imperfections if that’s what you want. I’m a strong believer in capturing the moments as real as they are, thus my lifestyle photographic approach.
Every baby is unique, and an experienced newborn photographer can capture beautiful shots of your baby boy or girl even at three or four weeks old. Regardless of when you schedule your newborn photoshoot, it’s always a fantastic idea. Babies grow quickly, and capturing their early moments is a wonderful keepsake.
Slightly older babies are often more alert and aware of their surroundings, resulting in more photos with their eyes open. We might even catch a few genuine smiles during this stage, showcasing a bit more of their developing personalities.
Caesarean births
If you’re planning or have undergone a caesarean birth, you might have concerns about physical movements during the photoshoot. Rest assured, my newborn photoshoots are parent- and baby-led.
I prioritize your comfort and will capture beautiful shots of you with your baby in positions that suit you best, whether sitting, propped up with pillows, or standing. As a little secret, I have undergone a caesarean birth and I totally understand the concerns can may arise and we don’t worry, you are on good hands.
Most parents are comfortable with me handling baby positioning, allowing you to relax with a cup of tea while I work my magic. With experience in photographing over tens of babies and being a mother of three, boys and girl, your baby is in safe hands.
If you’ve had a caesarean and are facing a challenging recovery, consider postponing the photoshoot until you’re feeling more at ease. The best age for a newborn photoshoot should align with your well-being.
Premature births
For premature babies, the best age for a newborn photoshoot is typically around your baby’s adjusted age. This adjusted age corresponds to when they would have been born if they had reached their due date.
So, you can plan the photoshoot around that adjusted age or a few weeks later. I allocate more time for photoshoots with premature babies, as they may need additional comfort due to issues like reflux.
Capturing moments throughout baby’s first year
In summary, the best age for a newborn photoshoot is ideally within two weeks of your baby’s birth, preserving the unique characteristics of your tiny “little human”. Additionally, consider scheduling sessions at around 4 months, 8 months, and perhaps a year.
Babies undergo significant development and growth during their first year, making it a perfect time to capture their milestones in beautiful photographs.
Many of my clients opt for bundle packages that feature a selection of photos from their baby’s first year. Feel free to get in touch for more details on how to preserve these memories for future generations.
And don’t forget to get in the photos with your baby! While you might not feel particularly photogenic shortly after giving birth, it’s essential to capture those cherished moments with your baby.
These photos become more valuable over time, and your little one will treasure them in the years to come. So, book your newborn photoshoot and create lasting memories with your family.
I’m based in the South East, offering services in Portsmouth, Southampton, Gosport, Portchester, Chichester, Christchurch, Winchester, Basingstoke and across Hampshire, Dorset and West Sussex. My shoot fees include travel within the South East of England and beyond (please read the FAQs).
