When to Book a Newborn Photographer: Tips for Planning Ahead
Welcoming a new baby is such an incredible milestone, filled with moments you’ll want to hold onto forever. As a newborn photographer, I love helping families preserve those fleeting early days with heartfelt, timeless images. Booking your newborn photoshoot can be a meaningful part of your nesting journey—another way to prepare for your little one’s arrival while dreaming up a session that beautifully reflects your family’s story.
But when is the best time to book? And how can you ensure the experience feels seamless and stress-free? Based on my years of working with new and growing families, here are some tips to help you plan ahead and fully enjoy this special time.
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Plan Ahead: When to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot Photographer
Newborn photography sessions are typically scheduled within the first 5-14 days after your baby is born. This timeline can certainly extend past those first two weeks of life depending on your birth story but this is our usual timeframe. During this window, babies are still in that sleepy, curly stage that allows for those classic, peaceful poses.
To secure a spot with your favorite photographer, I recommend booking your newborn photoshoot 3-5 months before your due date. This ensures your session is reserved, with flexibility to adjust the exact timing once your baby arrives. The start of your second trimester is the perfect moment to check this off your list—you’re likely feeling more energized and settled into your pregnancy after the challenges of the first trimester. It’s an ideal time to focus on exciting milestones, like planning your newborn session and beginning to lay out the nursery.
Booking early not only guarantees your spot but also gives you plenty of time to collaborate with your photographer on ideas and styling, creating images that feel truly unique to your family.
In the image below, you will see a fine art image of sweet Baby Annie. Her mother wanted to create an artful image of her daughter with fresh florals that could hang in her beautiful nursery. I’ve included an image of her nursery so you can see how we coordinated!
Consider Combining Maternity and Newborn Sessions
If you’re also considering a maternity session, it’s a wonderful way to document your journey into motherhood. Maternity sessions are typically photographed between 28-34 weeks of pregnancy when you’re far enough along to showcase your beautiful bump but still comfortable and mobile. By booking both sessions together, we can plan everything in advance, ensuring your due date is already accounted for on my calendar. This approach takes the guesswork out of planning and allows us to create a cohesive set of images that tell your story.
One of the greatest benefits of hiring the same photographer for both sessions is the consistency in style and storytelling. When your maternity and newborn photos share a cohesive look, they become part of a larger narrative about this transformative time in your life. These images are designed to complement each other, making them ideal for printing together in albums, wall art, or keepsake collections that tell the full story of your growing family.
How I Help You Prepare for Your Sessions
Choosing the right photographer isn’t just about beautiful images; it’s about finding someone who supports you every step of the way. Here are some ways I make the experience effortless for you:
1. Personalized Pre-Planning
I provide detailed guidance to help you feel fully prepared for your session. From tips on how to get your baby ready for their newborn photoshoot to advice on timing, I’m here to answer all your questions and make sure you know what to expect. There are enough unknowns in parenthood, I am here to take the guess work out of getting beautiful newborn portraits
2. Curated Client Wardrobe
Finding outfits shouldn’t add to your to-do list. That’s why I offer a curated client wardrobe with options for moms, babies, and even siblings. This takes the stress out of planning and ensures everyone looks their best, with outfits that complement the style and tone of your session. All of the images you see in this post feature selections from our client wardrobe.
3. Flexibility for Your New Arrival
Babies arrive on their own schedule, and that’s why I hold space for flexibility around your due date. Once your little one is here, we’ll finalize the session timing so everything feels relaxed and stress-free. We also take in to account your birth story and want to make sure that you are feeling your best for your newborn photoshoot.
4. Authentic and Timeless Style
My goal is to create images that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. Whether you prefer soft, natural poses or a lifestyle approach, we’ll work together to capture moments that feel true to you and your family.
Tips for Planning Ahead
- Reach Out Early: As soon as you know you’re expecting, it’s a great time to start thinking about photography. Early planning ensures availability and gives us plenty of time to discuss your vision.
- Bundle Maternity and Newborn Sessions: By booking both sessions at once, we can create a cohesive plan that saves you time and simplifies the process. Think of it as the two birds, one stone approach.
- Trust the Process: My goal is to take the stress off your plate. From planning details to wardrobe selection, cohesive color palette with your home and physical artwork that will hang on your walls, I’m here to make everything as effortless as possible so you can focus on enjoying this special time.
- Think About Your Vision: Whether you’re dreaming of serene, posed newborn images or candid family moments, we’ll work together to create a newborn photoshoot that reflects your unique style.
Let’s Capture Your Journey Together
Booking a newborn photography session is about more than just pictures—it’s about celebrating the evolution of your family’s story. By planning ahead and working with a photographer who prioritizes your needs, you can ensure a relaxed and joyful experience. If you’re ready to plan your maternity or newborn photoshoot, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s create timeless, authentic images that you and your family will treasure forever.
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