When to Take Newborn Photos

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Nothing is more rewarding than a mom capturing the precious, fleeting moments of your newborn’s early days. Preparing for a family newborn session is essential; you want the photos to be perfect! As a professional newborn photographer, I know what helps prepare the newborn baby for a photo session. Here are some tips, including when to take newborn photos.

Are you looking for my portfolio? Check out my newborn images.

When to Take Newborn Photos

When is the best time to take newborn photos? Typically, when the baby is 8-16 days old. Scheduling a newborn photo session in the first two weeks of your baby’s life is great for capturing those tiny features. Newborns tend to grow quickly and can lose that unique newborn look after just a few weeks.

However, it’s not too late to take natural newborn-style images of babies as old as three months. I wrap them in a swaddling blanket and photograph babies with their parents, even when they are older. If you prefer to wait and give yourself time to adjust to a new baby, that’s perfectly fine!

When to Schedule a Newborn Photographer

Schedule a newborn photographer in your second trimester of pregnancy. I only schedule a limited number of newborns per month to allow flexibility. As we all know, little ones come when they want to, and photographers limit their newborn sessions to prepare for this.

Once you book a photography session, I’ll reserve the month of your due date. From there, we schedule a day that is best for you and your family around ten days after your due date. We can adjust once the baby is born. 

Choose the Right Outfit for Newborn Photography 

If you’re having your baby photographed in the natural light studio, I provide wraps and headbands for them to wear during their session. You can view some of my favorite Amazon newborn clothing options here. If you have an item of sentimental value you’d like included in the session, I’ll do my best to incorporate it. 

Your outfit should be something that makes you feel comfortable but also lets you express yourself! Make sure it’s something timeless, like this midi dress or a floral dress, that won’t be outdated when you look back on these photos years later. I offer a client closet of dresses for moms to borrow and wear for their sessions.

I have everything to style, babies, so there is no need to bring anything with you. I have timeless options at the studio, like neutral wraps, knit rompers, and bloomers. Also, I have a client closet of dresses for moms to wear for the session. My client closet is one of the best perks of working with me and my client’s favorite!

How to Prepare Your Baby for Newborn Photos

Some newborn photographers have a long list of preparation items. I have a more laid-back approach because getting out of the door with a newborn is difficult! However, a well-rested and fed newborn is usually more content to take photos. Try to feed your baby before the session and pack diapers, bottles (or mama), and a pacifier.

I always say babies lead the session. If we need to take breaks for feedings or mama snuggles, that’s what we do! Additionally, if you plan on breastfeeding during the session, let me know if you’d like it captured in photographs!

Who to Include in a Newborn Photo Shoot

I always include all immediate family members in every newborn session. Depending on the toddler’s age, I recommend that the dad and toddler come in separate cars. I will photograph the whole family and siblings together first.

This way, husband and kids can be done quickly. Mom and baby can have an extra special time. Big sister or big brother is super excited to get on camera!

Relax and enjoy the newborn experience – it goes by quickly!

The newborn experience is truly a joy. You’ll be amazed at your baby’s new accomplishments every night and morning! As wondrous as these times are, they quickly pass by, and it’s essential to relax and enjoy every moment. Document these beautiful, sweet newborn days in your heart–you’ll have them forever!

Document Baby’s First Year with a Bump to Baby Plan

The membership is the perfect bump-to-baby plan for growing families. It’s excellent for busy Indiana families seeking to capture the first year of their child’s life. As a member, you can select up to four sessions spread across 18 months, enjoying an exclusive discount and member perks.

Book a Photographer

II hope this guide has helped prepare you for your little one’s upcoming newborn session! Since I provide everything to style mom and son or daughter, all you need to do is rest and have fun! 

If you’re looking for newborn photography, contact me today to discuss your vision. My studio is located in central Indiana, and I also travel to conduct outdoor and in-home lifestyle newborn photography sessions. You may also be interested in reading about:

• Pregnancy Announcement Photographer: 5 Tips for Classic Photos
• 5 Lactation Consultants In Indianapolis Guiding New Moms
• What to Wear for Maternity Photos for a Light, Neutral Color Palette
• Best of Indianapolis for Moms: Pregnancy Resources, Best Spas, Things to Do With Kids, and more

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