If you’re expecting a baby, your mind is probably already full... nursery plans, baby names, appointments, and preparing for postpartum life. One thing many parents don’t realize until later? Newborn photos should be planned earlier than you think.
As both a mom and newborn photographer, I see this all the time. Families reach out days after baby arrives hoping to squeeze into the calendar. Sometimes I can make it work… and sometimes availability is already full. That’s why planning ahead is so important. So once baby arrives, your only job is soaking in the snuggles.
Let’s walk through exactly when you should book newborn photos and how the timeline works.
THE BEST TIME TO BOOK NEWBORN PHOTOS
The ideal time to book your newborn session is during your second trimester (between 12–25 weeks pregnant).
This gives you the best chance to secure your preferred photographer and ensures your due date is reserved before calendars fill. Newborn photographers don’t book exact session dates months ahead... instead, we reserve space around your due date and finalize scheduling once baby arrives.
Booking early means:
• Less stress after delivery
• More scheduling flexibility
• Better availability
• Time to plan maternity + newborn sessions together
PREGNANCY TIMELINE BREAKDOWN
First Trimester
(0–12 Weeks)
This is a great time to start researching photographers and saving inspiration. You don’t need everything finalized yet, simply getting familiar with styles and pricing helps you feel prepared.
Second Trimester
(13–26 Weeks) — The Sweet Spot
This is the best time to officially book your newborn session.
During this stage most moms feel more settled, and due dates are more predictable. Booking during this window allows you to:
• Reserve your due date
• Choose studio or lifestyle sessions
• Plan maternity photos alongside newborn photos
• Receive any prep guides early
Most families on my calendar secure their newborn sessions during this stage.
Third Trimester
(27–40 Weeks)
At this point availability becomes limited. While it’s still worth inquiring, booking earlier always provides more flexibility and peace of mind.
FAQ
When Do Newborn Photos Actually Take Place?
Most newborn sessions take place when baby is between 5–14 days old. This is when babies are typically sleepiest and naturally curled.
That said, I take a baby-led approach. Every baby is different, and flexibility is always built into scheduling.
Here’s how my process works:
• You book while pregnant
• Your due date is reserved
• You notify me once baby arrives
• We schedule your session based on baby and recovery
This allows families to feel supported and not rushed during postpartum recovery.
FAQ
MY BABY IS
ALREADY BORN, AM I TOO LATE TO SCHEDULE MY NEWBORN SESSION?
If I have an opening in my schedule, I am always happy to accommodate last minute sessions!
Ideally, the best time to get baby in is between 5-14 days old after birth.
After two weeks babies become more alert and awake. For these reasons your session may look a little different and we might not be able to get all the poses but you still will love the session the same!
So, please don't hesitate to reach out!
FAQ
What Happens After You Book?
Once you’re officially on my calendar, I guide you every step of the way.
You’ll receive:
• Contract and retainer confirmation
• A detailed prep guide
• Styling and outfit guidance
• Client closet access for mama and baby
My goal is for you to show up relaxed, confident, and supported, not overwhelmed.
Newborn photos are more than just images. They preserve fleeting moments that pass faster than you realize. Tiny fingers, sleepy stretches, and first cuddles deserve to be remembered.
Planning ahead allows you to fully enjoy those early days without worrying about scheduling.
READY TO RESERVE YOUR DUE DATE?
If you’re expecting and would love a calm, meaningful newborn photography experience, I’d love to work with you.
