The Best Time to Take Newborn Photos (And Why It Matters)
The Best Time to Take Newborn Photos (And Why It Matters)
Newborn photos are some of the most cherished images that parents will treasure forever. But did you know that timing plays a huge role in getting the best photos? Understanding the ideal window for newborn sessions is key to capturing those sweet, sleepy moments and ensuring your baby is comfortable and content throughout the shoot. Here’s why timing matters and when to schedule your newborn photos.
The Ideal Window for Newborn Photos
The best time to take newborn photos is within the first two weeks of life—ideally, between 5-10 days old. During this time, babies are still in their early newborn phase, and there are a few key reasons why this window is perfect for a photoshoot:
1. Babies Are Sleepier and Easier to Pose
In the first two weeks, babies tend to be sleepier and more prone to staying in peaceful, curled-up positions that resemble the fetal position. These poses are a hallmark of newborn photography, capturing that super-cozy, tiny baby look. It’s much easier to photograph them when they’re in a deep sleep, as they’re more likely to stay relaxed and comfortable during the session.
After two weeks, babies begin to become more alert and start developing their own sleep patterns, which means they may be more easily disturbed during the shoot and harder to pose in the same way.
2. The "Newborn Look" Is Still There
The first two weeks are when babies have that distinctive newborn look—soft, delicate features, tiny hands and feet, and that squishy, round face. It’s during this time that you can capture those timeless, innocent expressions that are the hallmark of newborn photos. As babies get older, they begin to lose that fresh, newborn appearance as they grow and develop.
3. They’re Still Adapting to the World
In the early days, babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb. This means they’re still settling into a routine and are often more calm and content, especially when wrapped in cozy fabrics or held by their parents. Newborns at this stage are less likely to have gas, colic, or other discomforts that might make them fussy during a session. This is why it’s easier to get those serene, peaceful moments in the first few weeks.
4. Their Skin Is Still Smooth and Flawless
Newborns in their first few days have smooth, flawless skin with very little redness or peeling, making it an ideal time for close-up photos. As they age, their skin may develop baby acne or other minor skin irritations, which can be harder to capture in a flattering way.
5. Parents Can Relive the Newborn Stage
The first two weeks go by in the blink of an eye, and before you know it, your little one is no longer that tiny bundle of joy. Scheduling a newborn photoshoot early in their life allows parents to relive and preserve those precious early moments. Those sleepy, curled-up baby poses are something parents often want to remember as they watch their child grow and change.
What If You Miss the Two-Week Window?
Life happens, and sometimes the timing doesn’t work out as planned. But don’t worry! If you miss the first two weeks, it’s still possible to capture beautiful photos of your newborn. Babies can be photographed up to 6-8 weeks old, though they may be more alert and harder to pose by then. At this stage, you’ll still be able to get beautiful shots, just with more awake expressions and some different poses.
Final Thoughts
Timing is everything when it comes to newborn photos. The first two weeks are the golden window for capturing those sweet, sleepy moments and the classic newborn look that parents will treasure forever. By scheduling your newborn photoshoot early, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother session and stunning images that capture this fleeting, precious time in your baby’s life.
