Newborn photos are one of those very special pictures everyone wants to have. Many parents wonder at what age they should book their photography session to capture the best pics. It’s a good question! I have photographed newborns of all ages. From very tiny and sleepy 2 day old babies all the way up to babyhood and beyond.

It’s good for parents to know that every stage of their newborn’s life is special to photograph. Each phase of this incredible time has a special charm. So here’s a little run down of the main two stages in a photographic sense so you can get a good idea of which you prefer.

The ideal time to capture your baby as a “true” newborn is between 5 and 10 days old. During this time your baby is sleepy, tiny, and still looks like they have just arrived. They are fragile and womblike and it is incredible to capture this very early stage of life. They easily curl up and sleep anywhere, fresh from their mother’s belly. It’s wonderful to create these memories in a newborn photoshoot which you will be able to look back on forever.

I advise families who wish to have this early phase captured to book a newborn session whilst still pregnant. When your new baby arrives you can contact me to confirm the time. I am flexible and understand the unpredictable and changing needs of your family at this time. We can always make something work. Parents often also have a relaxing and enjoyable time at the sessions so it turns out to be a lovely celebratory day out for everyone.

After these very early days, your baby will still have its beautiful and distinctive newborn look, but is becoming more active and alert. From about 14 days to 12 weeks newborns are becoming more aware and lively every day. They are smiling, giving eye contact, responding to gestures, and connecting with you whilst gradually opening up to the world. They are often awake for a lot of the photoshoot, however, after a feed, we often get some sleeping shots as well.

Newborns grow fast! After these 12 weeks they outgrow their newborn look. There is massive noticeable growth and change each day in a babies life both physically and emotionally. It’s never too late to have a session and all phases have their charm, but if you want the newborn look book a photoshoot before 12 weeks.

Every parent I speak to comments how fast their newborn time went by and how unique it is. Families love to have these photos and put them up around the house. It creates a special feel in your home to see your child growing and having lifelong memories of their early days to look back on.