Those first few days with your newborn are truly magical. Their tiny fingers, delicate features, sleepy expressions, and the way they curl up so perfectly in your arms are moments you wish you could keep forever. But as every new parent quickly discovers, babies grow and change so much in such a short time.

One of the most common questions I hear from parents is: 

When is the best time to have newborn photos taken?

If you’re expecting a little one or have recently welcomed your baby, here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect time for your newborn photography session.

The Ideal Time for Newborn Photography

For those beautiful, sleepy, curled-up newborn portraits, the ideal time is usually between 5 and 14 days after birth.

During these early days, babies tend to spend more time sleeping and naturally curl into those adorable positions that make newborn photography so special. They may also be more comfortable being gently posed and wrapped, allowing us to create a collection of soft, timeless images.

However, every baby is different, and there is no need to worry if your little one is already a few weeks old. Beautiful newborn photographs can still be created at any age. The most important thing is that your baby is comfortable, safe, and settled throughout the session.

Why Are the First Two Weeks So Special?

The first two weeks of your baby’s life are filled with tiny details that change almost overnight. Their little hands and feet, soft skin, delicate eyelashes, and newborn expressions are all part of what makes this stage so precious.

During this period, many babies are sleepier and more naturally flexible, which can make it easier to capture those peaceful, curled-up poses.

A newborn session is also about more than just photographs of your baby. It’s an opportunity to preserve the very beginning of your family’s story — the tiny details, the quiet moments, and the love that surrounds your newest arrival.

These are the photographs you’ll look back on for years to come.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Photoshoot?

My biggest recommendation is to book your newborn photography session during pregnancy, ideally in your second or third trimester.

Rather than trying to organise everything after your baby arrives, booking ahead gives you one less thing to think about during those precious first days.

Your session can be scheduled around your estimated due date, with the exact date confirmed once your little one has arrived. Babies have their own plans, of course, so flexibility is always important!

Booking early also helps ensure availability, particularly if you’re hoping for a session during those first two weeks.

What If My Baby Is Older Than Two Weeks?

Please don’t worry if your baby is already three, four, or even six weeks old. You haven’t missed your opportunity to capture beautiful memories.

Older newborns may be more alert, stretch out more often, and prefer different positions. This simply means your session may have a slightly different feel, with more awake portraits, natural expressions, cuddles, and close-up details.

Every stage has its own beauty, and your photographs should reflect your baby just as they are.

What If My Baby Arrives Early or Needs Extra Time?

Babies rarely follow an exact schedule, and sometimes life doesn’t go quite as planned. If your baby arrives earlier than expected or needs extra time before coming home, your family’s wellbeing always comes first.

Your newborn session can be adjusted to suit your circumstances. There is no need to rush, and your baby’s comfort and safety will always be the priority.

We’ll find a time that works best for you and your little one.

How Can I Prepare for My Newborn Photography Session?

The good news is that you don’t need to do much to prepare. My goal is to make your session as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.

Here are a few simple tips:

Feed your baby before the session, when possible. A full tummy can help your little one feel settled, although feeding breaks are always welcome.

Allow plenty of time. Newborn sessions move at your baby’s pace, with time for feeding, cuddles, changing, and settling.

Keep your baby comfortable. A warm, calm environment helps create a relaxed experience.

Don’t worry about perfection. Your baby doesn’t need to be perfectly asleep or settled every moment. Those natural little expressions can become some of your favourite memories.

Enjoy the experience. You don’t need to know how to pose your baby or prepare everything yourself. I’ll guide you through the session.

Capturing the Moments You’ll Never Want to Forget

The newborn stage passes in the blink of an eye. One day you’re holding a tiny baby who fits perfectly in your arms, and before you know it, those little fingers are reaching for yours and their personality is beginning to shine.

Newborn photography gives you the chance to pause time, even just a little, and preserve these memories for your family to treasure forever.

If you’re expecting a baby, I’d love to help you capture this beautiful chapter of your story.

The best time to book is before your little one arrives, so we can plan your session and be ready to capture those first precious days together.

Get in touch to enquire about newborn photography sessions and availability. I can’t wait to meet you and your newest little love!