The Best Time to Schedule Your Newborn Photos (And Why It Might Not Be What You Think)
When it comes to newborn photography, you’ve probably heard that the best time to book your session is within the first two weeks after birth. And while those first days are certainly magical, they’re not the only time to capture incredible photos. In fact, I photograph newborns up to 8 weeks old, and there are unique benefits to waiting a little longer before your session.
Whether you’re looking for those sleepy, curled-up poses or more interactive, wide-eyed moments, the timing of your session depends on what you’re hoping to capture—and how much time you need to settle into your new routine.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different stages of your newborn’s early weeks, and how to choose the right time for your family.
The First Two Weeks: Sleepy and Snuggly
In the first 14 days, your baby will likely spend most of their time sleeping. This is the perfect window for capturing those classic, peaceful newborn moments:
Curled-up poses that mimic their time in the womb
Tiny hands and feet details
Snuggly, sleepy moments with parents and siblings
Because babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb, they’re usually very flexible and easy to position during this stage. If you’re dreaming of soft, serene newborn photos, the first two weeks are ideal.
Weeks 3–4: Settling into a New Rhythm
Around the 3–4 week mark, many families are beginning to find their rhythm and adjust to life with a newborn. This is a wonderful time for photos if:
You want to include more candid, lifestyle moments in your session (feeding, burping, and quiet snuggles).
You’d like to capture your baby beginning to stretch out and become more expressive.
You need extra time to recover and settle in after delivery.
During this stage, your baby may still be quite sleepy but will start having brief moments of alertness, offering a mix of both dreamy and interactive photos.
Weeks 5–8: More Alert and Interactive
If you’re worried that waiting beyond the first two weeks means you’ve “missed the window,” let me reassure you—there’s so much magic in photographing older newborns! At 5–8 weeks, your baby will likely be:
More alert, offering opportunities for engaging eye contact and little smiles.
Beginning to interact with you, creating heartwarming moments of connection.
Developing their unique personality, which shines through in their photos.
This stage is especially wonderful for families who want photos that feel more interactive, with plenty of opportunities to document the bond between you and your baby.
Why Waiting Might Be Right for You
Many parents feel overwhelmed in the first couple of weeks after bringing home a new baby, and that’s completely normal. Scheduling your session later—at 4, 6, or even 8 weeks—can give you time to adjust to your new routine, feel more rested, and settle into parenthood.
Plus, older newborns can offer so much variety in photos. From sleepy snuggles to alert, curious expressions, the range of moments we can capture grows as your baby gets older.
Tips for Booking and Preparing for Your Session
Book Early: It’s a good idea to reach out during your second or third trimester to secure your spot. We can adjust the timing if needed after your baby arrives.
Choose Your Style: Whether you’re dreaming of those classic, sleepy poses or more lifestyle-inspired moments, we’ll plan your session around your preferences.
Keep It Flexible: Babies are unpredictable, and that’s okay! We’ll schedule your session with plenty of flexibility to allow for feedings, diaper changes, and cuddles.
The Bottom Line: Every Stage Has Its Beauty
Whether your baby is just a few days old or nearly 8 weeks, there’s no “wrong” time to schedule your newborn photos. Every stage brings its own kind of magic, from the peaceful sleepiness of the first days to the bright-eyed wonder of weeks later.
As a photographer specializing in in-home newborn sessions in the Boston and Boston Metro area, my goal is to capture your family’s story in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and uniquely yours—no matter when your session takes place.
Let’s Capture Your Baby’s First Chapter
If you’re ready to document this special time in your family’s life, let’s chat about scheduling your in-home newborn session. Whether your baby is a few days or a few weeks old, I’d love to help you create photos you’ll cherish forever.
Looking forward to working with you,
Chelsea
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