One of the most common questions new parents ask is: When should we schedule our newborn photos?

If you're hoping for those sweet, sleepy images where baby is curled up in cozy poses, the ideal time for a newborn session is between 7–10 days after birth.



During this stage, babies are usually still very sleepy and naturally flexible. They’re what photographers lovingly call “sleepy and squishy,” which makes it much easier to gently pose them in those classic curled-up positions you often see in newborn photography.

A parent lovingly holds and bonds with their newborn baby in a series of tender moments at home.

What Happens After the First Two Weeks?

After the first week or so, babies start changing quickly. Every newborn is different, but there are a few common milestones photographers tend to notice.


Around two weeks old, many babies start developing a little bit of baby acne. This is completely normal and temporary, but it’s one of the reasons photographers often recommend scheduling earlier.


By about three weeks old, many babies begin having longer wake windows. They become more alert and curious about the world around them. While this is a beautiful stage in its own way, it can make it harder to capture those deep, sleepy poses.


Your Well-Being Matters More Than Timing!

While the 7–10 day window is ideal for traditional newborn poses, I always want parents—especially moms—to know something important: Your healing and well-being come first.


The early postpartum period can be overwhelming. Some moms are recovering physically, navigating postpartum depression or anxiety, or simply adjusting to life with a brand new baby.


If you need more time, that is completely okay.


If your baby is a little older when we do the session, we’ll still capture beautiful and meaningful moments. Your baby might be more awake and expressive, which can actually lead to some incredibly sweet and emotional images.


There is no “wrong” time to document this season.

A family relaxes together during an intimate newborn photography session at home.

Tips to Help Your Newborn Session Go Smoothly

A little preparation can make your newborn session feel calm, relaxed, and enjoyable for everyone involved. Here are a few simple tips that help a lot.


Bring a Backup Outfit

Babies are adorable… and unpredictable. Spit-up and diaper accidents happen all the time, so it’s always helpful to have a backup outfit for both baby and parents just in case.


Feed and Burp Baby Right Before the Session

One of the best ways to encourage sleepy newborn photos is to feed your baby right before the session begins.

A full tummy helps babies feel calm and relaxed. Just don’t forget to burp them! Sometimes parents are eager to jump right into photos, but if baby has trapped air and feels uncomfortable, we’re more likely to get a cranky baby than peaceful sleepy poses.


Taking a few extra minutes for feeding and burping makes a big difference.


White Noise Can Work Wonders

Many babies relax quickly when they hear white noise because it reminds them of the sounds they heard in the womb.


If you have a white noise machine at home, it’s a great idea to keep it nearby during the session. I always bring one with me just in case. It can be incredibly helpful for helping little ones drift off to sleep.

A mother laying over her newborn baby dressed in all white on white bedding.

Capturing the First Days of Your Baby’s Story

The newborn stage passes by incredibly and unfairly fast. One moment they’re curled up in your arms, and before you know it they’re stretching, smiling, and discovering the world.


Whether your baby is 7 days old or 3 weeks old, the goal of a newborn session is the same: to capture the love, connection, and wonder of this brand new chapter in your family’s story.


And those moments are always worth remembering.