Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s most cherished moments, filled with a whirlwind of new experiences.

Amidst the flurry of sleepless nights and adjusting to life with a new baby, many parents wonder when the best time is to schedule a newborn photoshoot. Understanding the timing for these precious sessions is crucial, as it makes a significant difference in the type of images captured and the overall experience.

One of the most recommended windows for these sessions is within the first 14 days after birth, as this is when your little one still easily naturally settles into those cute, curled-up photos that families treasure for a lifetime. The early newborn days are fleeting, and the delicate nature of this phase means that choosing the right moment is key.

In this article, we’ll explore why these first two weeks matter for newborn photography, how your baby’s developmental stage contributes to the ease of the session, and what parents can expect when planning this special event. Read on to discover how timing can make all the difference in creating timeless memories of your newborn baby.

Newborn Photography Sessions: Why the First 14 Days?

The first 14 days after birth are an ideal time for newborn photography due to several unique characteristics of babies at this stage.

One major advantage is their natural sleep cycle. During the early days, newborns spend a large portion of their time in deep sleep, allowing photographers to capture those iconic, peaceful, and intricately posed shots that parents love. Additionally, within these first weeks, a newborn’s body retains the natural curl from being in the womb.

This flexibility not only makes posing safer and more comfortable but also helps achieve those heart-melting, curled-up positions that evoke such strong emotional responses. The minimal startle reflex and relaxed muscles of babies in this phase mean they can be gently positioned and photographed with less risk of waking or fussing.

This sleepiness and flexibility make the early days optimal for creating stunning, dream-like images. Beyond aesthetic benefits, this period is also generally smoother in terms of transitions and minimal disruptions, making the session more enjoyable for both the baby and the parents.

The Baby’s Developmental Stage

A newborn’s developmental stage within the first 14 days plays a significant role in achieving those soft, dreamy photos. In this period, babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb and often mimic the conditions they were familiar with during pregnancy. This means they tend to stay curled up, their limbs tucked in close, which not only looks adorable in photos but also makes them feel safe and secure.

Their natural reflexes and frequent sleep cycles contribute to a relaxed environment during the session, which allows for the best workflow: as mentioned, newborns at this age are more likely to sleep deeply and for longer stretches, which allows for smoother posing transitions without sudden disruptions. Early newborns are also less prone to conditions such as colic or increased fussiness, which can arise as they grow older and become more aware of their surroundings.

During these early days, feeding and settling cycles are predictable, leading to a more relaxed session where parents can enjoy the process. This combination of deep sleep, comfort, and calmness is what makes the first 14 days so perfect for a newborn photoshoot at our studio in Bromley, resulting in those timeless images that capture the essence of your newborn.

What Happens After 14 Days?

After the first 14 days, babies become more alert and aware of their surroundings, which can make them more sensitive to touch and movement. This increased alertness often leads to shorter sleep cycles and a greater likelihood of waking during the session.

The once-flexible, curled-up poses become harder to achieve as babies begin to stretch out more and develop muscle strength.

Additionally, growth spurts often occur around the third or fourth week, which can make feeding and soothing less predictable. These growth periods may lead to fussiness, making it harder for both parents and the photographer to manage the session smoothly.

Can you still book my newborn photography session if baby is older?

Life doesn’t always follow a set plan, and many parents find themselves unable to schedule a newborn photoshoot within the first 14 days. Whether due to health reasons, unexpected events, or simply the overwhelming nature of new parenthood, some families miss this window.

While older newborns can still be photographed beautifully by an experienced newborn photographer, the poses and approach need to be adjusted to ensure safety and baby’s wellbeing at all times.

As parents, it is important to understand that although sessions after 14 days can still be done with wonderful results, they may not include the same level of classic newborn poses that are easier to capture within the first two weeks.

Posing may shift from the tightly curled positions to more natural and open poses that highlight the baby’s expressions and newfound awareness.

Our studio in Bromley has over a decade of experience photographing newborn baby, so be assured that we have techniques and strategies to handle sessions with older babies.

If your baby is beyond the two-week mark, please reach out to discuss a personalised approach that captures your baby’s unique stage.

Tips for Planning and Booking Early

Booking your newborn photography session early is essential for ensuring that you secure a spot within the optimal timeframe. Most parents find it helpful to schedule their session during the second or third trimester, giving themselves peace of mind and flexibility around their due date.

When you are ready to book, we will pencil you in around your estimated due date, and will adjust the actual date of the session based on your baby’s arrival.

Additionally, booking early will give us the chance to discuss your vision for the session, including preferred props, poses, and themes!

Newborn Photography Sessions: Conclusion

The first 14 days of a newborn’s life are a precious, fleeting period that is ideal for photography. During this time, babies are in their most natural and relaxed state, allowing photographers to capture those tender, sleepy moments that resonate so deeply with families.

While life can sometimes disrupt plans, understanding the benefits of scheduling a newborn photoshoot within this window helps parents make informed decisions and plan in advance.

If you’re considering a newborn photoshoot, planning early and discussing options with us can set you up for a smooth, enjoyable experience.