When Should You Book a Newborn Photography Session

Congratulations! You just found out you are expecting a little one—what an exciting time! From picking out nursery colors to choosing baby names, there is so much to do to prepare for your baby’s arrival. But there’s one thing that often gets overlooked in those early months: booking a newborn photography session. So, when is the best time to schedule your baby’s first professional photoshoot? Let’s talk about it!

The Best Time to Book Your Newborn Session

While it may feel early, the ideal time to book your newborn photography session is during your second trimester. That’s right—around the halfway mark of your pregnancy. This gives you plenty of time to find a photographer you love and ensure you’re on their schedule. Newborn photographers (myself included!) often book up months in advance, especially during busy seasons. By scheduling early, you secure your spot and avoid the stress of scrambling to find someone after your baby arrives.

Since babies rarely arrive exactly on their due dates, I pencil you in around your estimated due date. Once your little one is born, we finalize the actual session date. Most newborn sessions take place within the first 10-14 days after birth. During this time, babies are typically sleepier and easier to pose, resulting in those beautiful, squishy, curled-up photos everyone adores.

What If You Wait Until After Your Baby Arrives?

Life happens! Maybe you didn’t realize how quickly photographers fill up, or maybe you just weren’t sure if you wanted a newborn session. If your baby is already here, don’t worry—you’re not too late. I receive many inquiries from new parents after their baby is born. While I can’t always guarantee availability on short notice, I do my best to accommodate last-minute bookings whenever possible.

If my schedule is full and I can’t fit you in right away, I can often still capture beautiful images of your little one once they are a bit older. Newborn sessions can still be successful with babies up to 3 or even 4 weeks old. While older newborns may be more awake during the session, we can capture adorable photos of their developing personality and those sweet wide-eyed expressions.

Why Booking Early Matters

Booking your newborn photography session early gives you peace of mind. You can check it off your to-do list and know that your baby’s precious early days will be beautifully documented. Newborns grow and change so quickly; those tiny fingers, wrinkly toes, and sleepy cuddles are fleeting. Capturing those moments while they are still brand new is something you will treasure for a lifetime. Here are some tips for scheduling your session.

• Book during your second trimester to secure your spot.
• Look for a photographer whose style you love and who specializes in newborn photography.
• Once your baby arrives, reach out as soon as possible to schedule your exact session date.
• Don’t worry if you missed the early window—beautiful photos can still be captured after the first two weeks.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

If you’re expecting and ready to reserve your newborn photography session, I would love to work with you! I specialize in capturing the sweet, fleeting moments of your baby’s early days. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to secure your spot on my calendar. Let’s create images you will cherish forever.

Interested in learning more? Check out my Newborn Photography Portfolio or Contact Me to book your session today!