When is the best time to do newborn photos?

As a Frisco Newborn Photographer, one question I hear from almost every expecting parent is: “When should we plan our newborn photos?” There’s no single answer that works for every family, but there are helpful guidelines that can make the choice easier. Think of this as your go-to guide for choosing a session time that feels right for you, your baby, and your postpartum recovery.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Session?

If you’re still pregnant, the sweet spot for booking is usually your second trimester. It gives you plenty of time to prepare, and it also guarantees that I can fit you into my calendar. Once your baby arrives, just send me a quick message within two days, and I will offer session times that fall within the recommended age range.

All newborn sessions happen Monday through Friday in the morning, and I photograph only one baby per day to keep the studio calm, clean, and peaceful.

What Age Is Best for Newborn Photos?

What Matters Most When Choosing a Session Date

Start by thinking about what kind of images you’re dreaming of. Do you want tiny, curled-up poses? Do you love open eyes and personality? Or maybe a mix of both? The best age really depends on the look and feel you’re going for.

Want Those Tiny, Curled-Up, Sleepy Photos?

For classic posed newborn photos where babies are extra snuggly and sleepy, the ideal window is 5 to 14 days old. Babies are usually more settled at this age, which makes posing safe, smooth, and comfortable.

Trying to Coordinate with Your Partner’s Limited Time Off?

If your partner has a short leave, don’t stress about the exact age too much. As long as your baby is under four weeks old, we can still create beautiful posed or lifestyle images together.

Prefer Sleepy Photos or More Awake Photos?

If you love sleepy, wrapped poses, earlier is better. Under two weeks old is the goal.

If you prefer alert, awake images, then a slightly older newborn is perfect.

Want a Mix of Sleepy and Awake?

Babies around 3 to 4 weeks old give you the best of both worlds. They’re often awake long enough for great eye contact, but they can still settle with swaddling. Feeding patterns are usually more predictable too.

Want Mostly Awake, Personality-Filled Photos?

For bright eyes, expressions, and a bit of personality, 5 to 8 weeks old is a fantastic age range.

Hoping to Capture Those First Real Smiles?

Intentional smiles usually start around 4 weeks and up, so older newborns are great if this is important to you.

Need Extra Time to Recover After Birth?

Every birth story is different, and so is every recovery. Some families feel ready to come in right away, while others need more time, especially after a C-section. If your body needs longer than the typical posed window, lifestyle sessions are a wonderful alternative. They’re gentle, relaxed, and take place in our cozy studio bed setup. They’re also shorter, which helps a lot with fussier or older babies.

What If Your Baby Was Born Premature?

For preemies, I look at adjusted age and baby’s size rather than their actual age. For example, I photographed a premature baby who was almost three months old but still close to her due date. We were able to get a mix of poses, awake shots, and some sweet lifestyle family photos. Every baby is different, so I tailor the session to what’s safest and most comfortable.

If your baby is over ten pounds or past the four-week mark, lifestyle sessions are usually the best fit.

What Happens If You Miss the Usual Window?

Not every baby fits within the 5 to 14 day range, and that’s okay. I take babies up to four weeks old for posed photos when it’s safe and doable. After that, lifestyle sessions take the lead. Many older newborns surprise me by sleeping soundly, while some tiny babies under two weeks stay awake the whole time. This is why all of my sessions are baby-led.

To help babies settle, I use a combination of gentle techniques: swaddling, white noise, heat, and rocking. These work beautifully at many ages.

Can You Reschedule If Something Comes Up?

Absolutely. Newborn life is unpredictable, and I always try to be flexible. Whether you need more time to heal or your baby needs to stay in the hospital longer than expected, we simply adjust the session when everyone is ready.

A Studio Environment Made for Newborns

I know that leaving the house in those early days can feel overwhelming, so I’ve designed the studio to feel calm, clean, and completely baby-friendly. We only photograph one newborn per day, which keeps the space quiet and helps your baby stay settled. The studio is shoe-free, everything is cleaned regularly, and all fabrics and outfits are washed with hypoallergenic detergent.

There is also a private waiting area just for my clients, which many parents love. You’ll have access to a changing table fully stocked with extra wipes and diapers in case you forget anything. There are also snacks and drinks available, along with a mini fridge if you need to store milk or bottles. It is a cozy, private space that allows you to relax while I work with your baby.

Final Thoughts

There really isn’t just one perfect time for newborn photos. The right timing depends on your goals, your recovery, and your baby’s unique needs. Whether you love tiny, sleepy poses or wide-eyed expressions full of personality, there’s a perfect option for you.

If you’re expecting and want to reserve a session with a trusted Frisco Newborn Photographer, I’d love to help you plan something beautiful. Reach out today to hold your spot.