When Is the Best Time to Have Professional Newborn Photos Taken?
Welcoming a new baby is an incredibly special moment, and capturing these early days with professional newborn photos is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. However, many parents wonder: when is the best time to schedule a newborn photoshoot? Let’s explore the ideal window for capturing those precious first moments and why timing matters.
The Golden Window: 5 to 14 Days Old
Hallmark Photography specialises in newborn photography and the best time to schedule a session is when your baby is between 5 and 14 days old. During this period, babies are generally very sleepy, making it easier to position them in those adorable curled-up poses. They also tend to be more flexible and relaxed, which helps create those iconic, peaceful newborn images.
Why 5 to 14 Days?
- Sleepy and Content: At this age, newborns spend a lot of time sleeping, making it easier to capture serene poses without disruption.
- Newborn Characteristics: Babies still have their unique newborn features, such as delicate skin, tiny fingers and toes, and that unmistakable new-baby look.
- Flexibility: Babies are naturally curled up, a feature from their time spent in the womb, which makes posing them feel natural and safe.
Beyond Two Weeks: What to Expect
If you miss the 5 to 14-day window, don’t worry – we can still create beautiful images of your baby. After two weeks, babies tend to be more alert and less inclined to sleep through a session. This means the focus may shift to capturing natural moments, expressions, and even wide-eyed wonder but we can still get great photographs.
Older Newborn Sessions
- More Personality: As your baby grows, they start to develop little expressions and personality quirks that are delightful to document.
- Family Moments: Older newborn sessions often include more interaction with parents or siblings and it’s a great opportunity to capture those family moments.
Planning Ahead
To ensure you’re able to book your chosen session, we suggest that you book in a “flexible” date based on your due date. Reserving a tentative date around your due date ensures flexibility in scheduling.
Tips for Scheduling:
- Contact Early: Book your session as soon as possible, ideally during your second or third trimester.
- Be Flexible: Babies arrive on their own schedule, so we can adjust your booking if needed.
- Prepare for the Session: We’ll provide you with useful information, in advance, on how to prepare for your photoshoot session, from feeding schedules to outfit choices.
Why Professional Newborn Photos Are Worth It
Your baby’s first days are fleeting, and it’s important to capture these moments for you beautifully and safely. As qualified photographers, we understand newborn safety and have the skills to handle your baby gently while creating stunning images.
Whether you’re drawn to artistic poses or candid moments, scheduling your newborn session at the right time ensures you’ll treasure these memories for years to come. So, plan ahead, and get ready to celebrate this magical chapter in your family’s story.