When Is the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos

Best Time for Newborn Photos

The first few days and weeks of a newborn’s life are a unique and special time that can never be replicated. Capturing this fleeting time with professional photographs can help preserve those memories for a lifetime. Photographing your newborn at the right time is essential because newborns grow and change quickly in the first few weeks of life. When is the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos?

The best time for newborn photos is typically within the first two weeks of the baby’s life. This is because, during this time, the baby is still very sleepy and curled up in a natural fetal position, making capturing those adorable, curled-up poses easier.

Additionally, newborns are still adjusting to life outside the womb and tend to be more cooperative and less fussy. They may become more alert as they age, making it more challenging to get them to stay still for photos.

4 Reasons to Photograph Your Newborn

1. To capture the newborn stage

The first few weeks of a newborn’s life are a time of rapid growth and development. Newborns change quickly, and they will never look quite the same again. Photographing your newborn during this time will capture all those tiny details that make the newborn stage so particular.

2. To create lasting memories

Professional newborn photography can help you create beautiful, lasting memories of your baby’s earliest days. These photos can be cherished for years and passed down to future generations.

3. To document milestones

Newborn photography can help document essential milestones in your baby’s life, such as their first days at home, their first smile, or their first steps. These photos can help you remember and celebrate these special moments.

4. To capture your family’s story

Newborn photography is a way to capture your family’s story and history. These photos can help tell the story of your family and your new addition and can be treasured for future generations.

How long should a newborn photoshoot take?

The duration of a newborn photoshoot can vary, but on average, it typically takes around 2 to 4 hours.

Newborns need frequent feeding, changing, and soothing, so allowing enough time for these interruptions is essential while capturing those precious moments.

Patience is vital, as newborns may need breaks for feeding or settling during the session. It’s critical to work with a photographer who understands the needs and pace of newborns to ensure a successful photoshoot.

Should I reschedule my newborn photo shoot if my baby is fussy?

Yes, it’s a good idea to reschedule your newborn photo shoot if your baby is fussy.

Newborns can be unpredictable, and their comfort and well-being should always come first.

A detailed or unsettled baby may not cooperate reasonably during the shoot, resulting in less-than-ideal photos. It’s best to choose a time when your baby is well-rested, fed, and content.

A professional photographer will understand this and be flexible with scheduling to accommodate your baby’s needs, ensuring a more prosperous and enjoyable photoshoot experience.

When Should I Book My Newborn Portraits?

It’s advisable to book your newborn portraits during pregnancy, ideally in your second trimester or early in the third trimester.

Photographers often have limited availability, so booking in advance ensures you secure a spot during the critical newborn window, typically within the first two weeks after birth. This gives you time to discuss preferences, plan the session, and make any necessary arrangements.

Should you book while still expecting or after the baby’s arrival?

Choosing between taking newborn photos at home or a photo studio depends on your preferences and circumstances. Both options have their advantages.

A home photoshoot offers the convenience of staying in a familiar environment, which can be more comfortable for the baby and allow for more personalized settings. On the other hand, a studio may provide professional lighting and equipment, along with a controlled environment, for consistent results.

Ultimately, it depends on your comfort level and the photographer’s expertise in either setting. Discuss your options with the photographer to determine which suits your needs and vision best.

Is it easier to take newborn photos at home or a photo studio?

Yes, it’s a good idea to reschedule your newborn photo shoot if your baby is fussy. Newborns can be unpredictable, and their comfort and well-being should always come first.

A detailed or unsettled baby may not cooperate reasonably during the shoot, resulting in less-than-ideal photos. It’s best to choose a time when your baby is well-rested, fed, and content.

A professional photographer will understand this and be flexible with scheduling to accommodate your baby’s needs, ensuring a more prosperous and enjoyable photoshoot experience.

What to Consider When Taking Photos of Newborns

1. No flash photography, no close-ups

The organs and tissues of a newborn baby are not fully developed and are in an unstable state.

The function of the visual cells on the retina of the eye is also in an unstable state. The solid electronic flash on the impact or damage of the visible cell affects children’s visual ability.

The damage is related to the distance from the camera to the eye, and the closer the camera is to the eye, the greater the damage.

2. Take a photo of a newborn, not an art photo

You may need to undress or change clothes frequently when photographing a newborn. However, it is easy to catch a cold when changing clothes because of the newborn’s poor body resistance. Therefore, we recommend that infants under 100 days should not take art photos.

If parents need to take art photos of newborns, ensure it’s warm enough inside.

3. Take a picture of a newborn baby, and don’t force darling to lookup

To photograph a newborn, parents sometimes inadvertently place a beauty on his stomach or even raise his head, which can be dangerous and cause harm to the infant.

Newborn, due to spinal fragility, also can not bear the head’s weight; if forced to raise the head of the infant, it is easy to cause baby cervical lordosis.

Therefore, when taking photos of the newborn, one must not take pictures of the effect and let the infant do more challenging movements. This is likely to hurt the baby.

In addition, since newborns don’t know how to express their dissatisfaction in words, parents and photographers must stop filming if they feel uncomfortable and cry.

What Are Good Newborn Photo Props?

Some good newborn photo props include:

Blankets and fabrics

Soft muslin, wool, or plush fabric can be used for wrapping the newborn or as a backdrop.

Headbands and hats

Tiny floral headbands, animal-themed hats, or cute bonnets can add a touch of cuteness.

Stuffed animals

Tiny animal plushies or adorable toys can be posed with the newborn.

Family mementos

Using family heirlooms or unique keepsakes can add emotional significance to the photos.

Flower crowns

Floral crowns can be placed on the newborn’s head for a natural and beautiful look.

Mother-baby accessories

Mother-son/mother-daughter accessories like headbands, bracelets, or anklets can showcase the parent-child bond.

Small props

Wooden letter blocks, customized name spellings, or numbers can be used to display the newborn’s name and birthdate.

Colored backgrounds

Soft colors or patterns can enhance the photos’ visual appeal.

Remember, safety comes first, so ensure that the props used are safe for the newborn and do not pose choking hazards or discomfort. Additionally, working with a professional photographer can ensure you get high-quality photos.

What are good Newborn photo poses?

Good newborn photo poses should prioritize the comfort and safety of the baby. Some famous poses include the “froggy” pose, where the baby’s chin rests on their hands while lying on their tummy, and the “bum up” pose, with the baby curled up on their back.

Other poses can involve using props like baskets, blankets, and wraps to create a variety of adorable setups. Experienced newborn photographers will have a repertoire of safe and beautiful poses.

Should mothers/fathers be in newborn photos?

Including mothers and fathers in newborn photos can be a heartwarming addition to the session. These family shots capture the loving connection between parents and their new baby.

Parents should wear solid, coordinating colors that complement the baby’s outfits and the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Neutral tones like white, gray, or pastels work well, as they won’t distract from the baby but instead enhance the family bond.

What are the best outfits for new moms for their newborn photo shoot?

The best outfits for new moms during their newborn photo shoot are comfortable, flattering, and complementary to the baby’s attire.

Flowy dresses, neutral-colored tops, or simple, elegant robes can create a timeless and natural look. It’s essential for mothers to feel comfortable and confident in their outfits, as this will be reflected in the photos.

Can I Combine My Maternity and Newborn Photography in One Package?

Yes, many photographers offer combined maternity and newborn photography packages. These packages can provide cost savings and ensure continuity in capturing the journey from pregnancy to parenthood. Discuss your preferences and vision with your chosen photographer to create a customized package that suits your needs.

How Do I Find the Right Photographer for My Newborn Photos?

Finding the right photographer for newborn photos requires careful consideration. Start by researching local photographers, viewing their portfolios, and reading reviews from past clients.

Look for photographers with experience in newborn photography and a style that aligns with your preferences—schedule consultations to discuss your ideas and expectations.

Ask about safety protocols and the photographer’s approach to working with newborns. Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities to capture these precious moments.

Conclusion

Finally, the first two weeks are a particular time for new parents, and capturing these precious moments while the baby is still tiny and new can be an excellent way to remember and cherish these early days.

Of course, every baby is different; some may be more cooperative or sleepy than others, regardless of age. Ultimately, the best time for newborn photos will depend on the individual baby and the preferences of the parents and photographer.

Author

  • Isabella Martin

    Hello, I'm Isabella Martin, your go-to guide in strollers and car seats. With a deep expertise forged through years of experience, I'm here to make your parenting journey a breeze. When I'm not immersed in baby gear, you can find me enjoying the company of my mischievous ferret, exploring the joys of photography, and indulging in the perfect slice of pepperoni pizza. Let's navigate parenthood together with style and a touch of fun!

Scroll to Top