How early should you plan a newborn photography session for your baby?

So when should you plan your newborn photography session? If you are looking for the classic bundled-up sleeping newborn baby photos, the really simple answer is within the first two weeks of birth, or 5-14 days old. Is this always possible or practical for the baby or the tired and recovering mom? Not necessarily. Even if you miss this two-week window, it should not stop you from planning a baby photo session, so let’s get into the details!

Why do many photographers recommend taking newborn photos within the 2-3 weeks of life? 

Even though newborns are babies from about 0-2 months, some photographers may recommend newborn photography sessions within the first few weeks of life. A lot of this has to do with the fact that newborns are very sleepy and flexible. These qualities make it easier to pose them in those adorable, curled-up, womb-like positions that parents love. As the baby grows, they become awake longer and are much harder to pose since they grow out of their curled sleeping positions. 

Newborn photography session

While most photographers will strive to make your newborn photography session as stress-free as possible encouraging clients to schedule as far in advance as possible and offering extreme flexibility if your baby comes early or later than the due date.

 Logistically, it can be tough for mothers to attend the session. New moms may feel physically and emotionally drained from the demands of childbirth and adjusting to life with a newborn. Pain or discomfort from delivery can make outings difficult, especially within the first few weeks. Additionally, some babies may not be ready for a session due to their development or temperament. For example, they may be experiencing feeding challenges, irregular sleep patterns, or colic, which can make it harder to coordinate the perfect time for photos. So, it is perfectly okay to wait. In fact, in most cases as a newborn photographer, I will highly recommend it!

Is 1-3 months too old for newborn pictures?

Not at all! There are many benefits to waiting to take newborn photos. After a few months of recovery, moms can feel much better, and so do the babies. Usually, by this time, moms have a routine and sleep schedule. 

At this age, babies start to lose that generic newborn look and develop more defined features they’ll carry into childhood—like bright blue eyes, a little nose just like mom’s, or a smile that’s a perfect replica of dad’s.

Older babies also begin to show more personality, whether it’s through their adorable smiles, curious expressions, or even tiny giggles. These traits make their photos even more unique and meaningful. Plus, they’re often ready to be posed in a variety of ways—not just on their backs but also on their tummies or propped up if they’re starting to lift their heads. As a photographer, this is my absolute favorite time to photograph babies, they are fun tiny humans!

chicago newborn photography session

How to Ensure a Stress-Free Experience for You and Your Baby

The number one tip is to be realistic about what is right for you and your baby. If you feel great after birth and the baby has been easygoing and you love your baby’s unique newborn features, feel free to plan to get those newborn photos done as soon as you can. If you can’t even begin to think how you can get ready and leave the house, opt for the in-home baby session, or just simply wait – it’s okay what you decide to do. In the end, you will still love your child’s photos no matter how old they are, the only regret you may have is if you don’t choose to do them at all.

The most important tip to a stress-free newborn photography session is choosing an experienced photographer—and not just someone who can take pretty pictures (trust me I’ve made this mistake – the story is on my About page). A skilled newborn photographer knows how to handle babies safely, soothe them during the session, and adapt to their unique needs and temperament. They’ll guide you through the process, offer advice on preparation, and create an environment where both you and your baby feel comfortable. This expertise ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience and stunning photos you’ll treasure forever.

When Should I Book My Newborn Photography Session? Conclusion

Whether you choose to schedule your session within the first two weeks or wait until your baby is 1–3 months old, a newborn photography session is all about capturing the precious, fleeting moments of your baby’s early days. Each stage has its unique advantages—newborn sessions highlight that tiny, fresh-from-the-womb look, while sessions with older babies capture more personality and distinct features. The most important thing is to choose a time that feels right for your family, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience that results in timeless memories you’ll cherish forever.




Thank you for exploring my blog! As a family and newborn photographer in Chicago, I believe every family’s story is one-of-a-kind and deserves to be celebrated. Let’s create something truly special to honor your unique journey. If you’re expecting or recently welcomed a little one, reach out to learn how we can capture those precious newborn moments together.

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Hi, I'm Mariya! I'm a Chicago family portrait photographer. Thanks for stopping by, I hope you've grabbed a good cup of tea or coffee as you browse through the blog :)