Welcoming a newborn into the world is one of the most magical and life-changing experiences. Those first few weeks are filled with precious moments that you’ll want to remember forever. A newborn photoshoot is the perfect way to capture these early days, but when is the best time to schedule one?
The Ideal Age for a Newborn Photoshoot
The best time for a photoshoot is the when you are ready, having said that most professional photographers recommend scheduling your newborn session when your baby is between 5 to 14 days old.
This is because babies are typically sleepier, easier to pose, and still have that adorable curled-up, womb-like positioning. Their delicate features, soft skin, and tiny details make for stunning photographs that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Why 5 to 14 Days?
- Deep Sleep & Easy Posing: Newborns sleep for long stretches during the first two weeks, making it easier to capture those peaceful, dreamy poses.
- Curled-Up Poses: Babies are still naturally curled up from their time in the womb, allowing for those adorable, classic newborn shots.
- Fewer Skin Changes: Many newborns develop baby acne or peeling skin after the two-week mark, which can affect the final look of the images.
- Minimal Disruptions: As babies get older, they tend to become more alert and less settled during sessions, which can make posing trickier.
What If my Baby is more than 14 days?
Life with a newborn can be unpredictable, and sometimes, parents aren’t able to visit within the first two weeks. Don’t worry! You can still have a beautiful newborn photoshoot with older babies. Here’s what to expect:
- 2 to 4 Weeks Old: Your baby may be more alert and may take a little longer to settle, having said that some babies sleep throughout the photoshoot – every baby is individual.
- 1 to 3 Months Old: At this stage, babies are more expressive, and while traditional newborn poses may not be possible, we can capture beautiful awake moments and adorable interactions.
For Babies Who Have Had a Longer Hospital Stay
We understand that not all babies are able to come home right away. If your little one has spent time in a neonatal unit (NICU) or paediatric intensive care unit (PICU), you may feel like you’ve missed the traditional newborn photoshoot window. But rest assured, it’s never too late to capture your baby’s incredible journey.
At Blitz Photography, we’ve worked closely with Ickle Pickles, a charity that supports neonatal units in local hospitals, and we know how precious these moments are for families of premature or poorly babies. Whether your baby is a few weeks or even a few months old, we will create a session that is tailored to your family’s needs. We take a sensitive, gentle approach to ensure that both you and your baby are comfortable, celebrating their strength and the love that surrounds them.
The Importance of Including Parents & Grandparents
A newborn photoshoot isn’t just about capturing the newest member of the family—it’s about celebrating the deep connections that surround them. Including parents and grandparents in the session adds an extra layer of meaning and emotion to your images. These photos serve as a reminder of the love, support, and generational bonds that will shape your child’s life. Holding your newborn in your arms, sharing a quiet moment, or simply gazing at them with love—these candid moments are priceless. For grandparents, these images become cherished heirlooms, capturing a time when they welcomed the next generation with warmth and pride.
Preparing for Your Newborn Photoshoot
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable session, consider the following tips:
- Book in Advance: We recommend booking a ‘moveable’ date for 7 days after your due date. This guarantees our availability and we can move your visit to a date that suits baby’s arrival.
- Keep Baby Comfortable: We suggest you feed your baby when you have arrived at our studio, this helps baby to settle before we start taking photography.
- Relax & Enjoy: A professional newborn photographer will guide you through the process, so you can sit back and enjoy the experience.
Capture the Magic of your Newborn
The newborn phase is fleeting, but photographs last a lifetime. Whether you book your session within the first two weeks, a little later, or after a longer hospital stay, the most important thing is capturing those precious first moments of your baby’s life.
At Blitz Photography, we specialise in creating beautiful newborn portraits that you and your family will treasure forever. If you’re expecting we’d love to help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
