When Should I Book My Newborn Photographer?
The Best Time to Book Your Newborn Session
One of the most common questions I receive is:
“When should I book my newborn photographer?”
The short answer?
The earlier, the better.
The good news is that you don’t need to know exactly when your baby will be born.
In fact, I don’t expect you to.
When you book your newborn session, I reserve your due date, not a specific photography date. Once your little one arrives, you’ll simply send me a text from the hospital, and together we’ll choose the perfect day for your session.
This system gives every family flexibility while allowing me to plan my calendar around expected arrivals.
Why Booking During Pregnancy Is Best
I recommend reserving your newborn session sometime during your second trimester or early third trimester.
Many families book shortly after their 20 week anatomy scan, once they know everything is progressing well.
Booking early gives you the best chance of securing space on my calendar, especially during busy seasons.
It also gives us plenty of time to discuss your vision, answer questions, and begin planning your session before life becomes wonderfully busy with a newborn.
Most importantly, once you’re booked, it’s one less thing to think about during those final weeks of pregnancy.
But Babies Don’t Arrive on Schedule…
One of the biggest concerns parents have is,
“What if my baby comes early?”
Or…
“What if I’m overdue?”
Don’t worry.
Babies have their own schedule.
That’s exactly why I reserve your due date rather than an exact session date.
Once your baby arrives, simply send me a text from the hospital with:
• Baby’s name
• Birthday
• Birth weight
• How everyone is doing
We’ll then find the best day for your newborn session based on how everyone is feeling.
When Is the Best Age for Newborn Photos?
While every baby is different, I typically photograph newborns between 7 and 14 days after birth.
During this stage, babies are often still wonderfully sleepy and naturally curl into the cozy poses that parents love.
They’re usually more comfortable being gently wrapped and positioned, making it easier to create the timeless portraits you see throughout my portfolio.
That said…
I’ve photographed beautiful newborn sessions well beyond two weeks.
Every baby is unique.
If your little one spent time in the NICU, arrived early, or simply wasn’t ready during those first couple of weeks, please don’t worry.
Beautiful photographs are still absolutely possible.
The most important thing is capturing this special season before it slips away.
What If My Baby Is Already Here?
First…
Congratulations!
Second…
Please don’t assume it’s too late.
I occasionally have room in my schedule for last minute newborn sessions.
If your baby has already arrived, reach out anyway.
If I have availability, I’ll do everything I can to fit you in.
Even if your baby is older than two weeks, I’d still love to talk with you.
Every family deserves beautiful memories of this incredible chapter.
Why I Reserve a Limited Number of Due Dates Each Month
Unlike many other types of photography, newborn sessions can’t simply be scheduled months in advance.
Babies decide when they’re ready.
To make sure every family receives the attention and flexibility they deserve, I only accept a limited number of due dates each month.
This allows me to adjust my schedule when babies arrive early or late without rushing anyone’s session.
It’s one of the reasons booking early is so important.
What Happens After You Book?
Once your session is reserved, I’ll guide you through everything.
You’ll receive:
• A welcome guide.
• A newborn questionnaire.
• Tips to help prepare for your session.
• Suggestions for clothing and colors.
• Information about choosing meaningful heirlooms.
• Everything you need to know before I arrive.
By the time your baby is born, you’ll feel completely prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I deliver several weeks early?
That’s exactly why I reserve due dates instead of photography dates. Simply let me know when your baby arrives, and we’ll adjust your session accordingly.
What if I go past my due date?
That’s completely normal.
Your reserved space stays with you until your baby arrives.
What if I need a C section?
No problem.
We’ll schedule your session based on how you’re recovering and when you feel ready.
Your comfort always comes first.
Do you photograph twins?
Absolutely!
Twins are every bit as special, and I’ll plan extra time to create beautiful portraits of both babies together and individually.
What if my baby spends time in the NICU?
Your baby’s health is always the priority.
We’ll simply schedule your session once your little one is home and everyone is ready.
A Few Final Thoughts
The newborn stage lasts only a few weeks.
It often feels like the longest days while you’re living them, yet somehow, when you look back, they become some of the shortest moments of your child’s life.
Booking your newborn photographer before your baby arrives gives you one less thing to worry about during those busy first days.
Then, once your little one is finally in your arms, all you have to do is send me a quick text.
I’ll take care of the rest.
