Capturing Memories: Why You Should Schedule a Newborn Photo Shoot and the Best Time to Do It

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a moment filled with joy, wonder, and a whirlwind of emotions. These first days and weeks pass quickly, and the tiny details of your baby’s earliest moments can fade from memory faster than you expect. Scheduling a newborn photo shoot offers a way to preserve these precious times forever. But why exactly should you invest in newborn photos, and when is the best time to capture them? This post explores the reasons behind newborn photography and guides you on the ideal timing to book your session.

Newborn baby peacefully sleeping wrapped in a soft blanket

Why You Should Get Photos of Your Newborn

Preserve Fleeting Moments

Newborns change rapidly. Their tiny fingers and toes, delicate eyelashes, and soft skin are unique to those first few weeks. Within a month, babies grow noticeably, and those early features evolve. A newborn photo shoot captures these fleeting details that you will want to remember forever.

Create Lasting Family Memories

Photos of your newborn become treasured family heirlooms. They tell the story of your child’s beginning and your family’s growth. Years from now, these images will bring back emotions and memories that words alone cannot express. They also allow your child to see how small and loved they were from the start.

Celebrate New Life and Milestones

A newborn photo shoot is more than just pictures; it’s a celebration of new life. It marks the transition into parenthood and the start of your family’s journey. Many parents find that the experience of the shoot itself is meaningful, offering a moment to pause and appreciate the miracle of birth.

Professional Quality and Creativity

Professional photographers specialize in newborn photography. They know how to handle babies safely and create beautiful, timeless images. Their expertise in lighting, posing, and props results in photos that stand out from casual snapshots. This quality ensures your memories look their best and can be displayed proudly.

Share Joy with Loved Ones

Newborn photos are a wonderful way to share your joy with family and friends. Whether through printed announcements, albums, or digital sharing, these images connect loved ones to your new arrival. They also make thoughtful gifts for grandparents and close relatives.

When Is a Good Time to Get Newborn Photos?

The First Two Weeks Are Ideal

Most photographers recommend scheduling newborn photo shoots within the first 14 days after birth. During this period, babies tend to sleep deeply and curl naturally, making it easier to pose them safely and comfortably. Their skin is also at its softest and smoothest, which enhances the overall look of the photos.

Why Timing Matters

After two weeks, babies become more alert and active. They may resist being posed or moved, which can make the shoot more challenging. While older babies can still have beautiful photos, the newborn phase has a unique softness and innocence that is hard to replicate later.

Booking in Advance

Since newborn sessions happen shortly after birth, it’s important to book your photographer before your due date. This way, the photographer can reserve a spot and be ready to schedule the session as soon as your baby arrives. Many photographers hold limited newborn slots each month due to the time and care required.

Flexibility for Unexpected Birth Dates

Babies don’t always arrive on schedule. A good photographer will be flexible and willing to adjust the session date within the ideal window. Communicate openly about your birth plans and any changes to ensure the best timing for your shoot.

What to Expect During a Newborn Photo Shoot

Preparing for the Session

Before the shoot, your photographer will guide you on how to prepare. This may include feeding your baby beforehand to encourage sleep, dressing them in simple clothing or nothing at all for skin-to-skin shots, and bringing any special items or props you want included.

Creating a Calm Environment

Newborn sessions are designed to be calm and relaxed. Photographers often use soft lighting, warm rooms, and soothing sounds to keep the baby comfortable. Sessions can last several hours to allow for feeding, changing, and settling the baby between poses.

Safety Is the Priority

Professional newborn photographers prioritize safety above all else. They use gentle posing techniques and never force a baby into uncomfortable positions. Many photographers have assistants or use supports to ensure the baby’s well-being throughout the shoot.

Variety of Shots

Expect a mix of close-ups on tiny details like hands and feet, wider family portraits, and creative setups with props or blankets. Some parents choose to include siblings or pets for a complete family memory.

Tips for Choosing a Newborn Photographer

Look for Experience and Style

Review portfolios to find a photographer whose style matches your vision. Some prefer natural, simple images while others use elaborate props and themes. Experience with newborns is crucial for safety and quality.

Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations

Feedback from other parents can provide insight into the photographer’s professionalism and how comfortable they make families feel during sessions.

Discuss Packages and Pricing

Understand what is included in the session fee, such as the number of photos, prints, or digital files. Some photographers offer packages that include multiple sessions as your baby grows.

Plan for Post-Processing Time

Editing newborn photos takes time. Ask about the expected turnaround so you know when to expect your images.

How to Make the Most of Your Newborn Photos

Display Your Photos Proudly

Print and frame your favorite shots to decorate your home. Albums and photo books also make great keepsakes.

Use Photos for Announcements and Gifts

Share your joy with personalized birth announcements or gifts for family members.

Capture Growth Over Time

Consider scheduling follow-up sessions at milestones like 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to document your baby’s growth.

If you are looking for a professional photographer in the Denver area, I specialize in family portraits and would love to capture photos of your new your little bundle of joy.

Erin Nie

Founder of Erin Edits