When to book your newborn session
If you’re a first-time parent or you’ve never done a newborn session before, you may be wondering when the best time is to book your newborn photo shoot. Photography is one of the many things about being a parent that no one tells you how to handle! You want adorable images of your new baby, but you may be unsure how to book a session or even how to find a newborn photographer in your area.
Unlike family photography, you can’t just pick a date for your newborn photo session. After all, you don’t know when exactly your baby will arrive, so how can you determine the right time to schedule your photo session? You don’t want to rush to book a newborn photographer while also taking care of your newborn. Talk about stressful!
Don’t worry, I’m here to clear up the mystery around newborn sessions!
When should I book a newborn photographer?
Every photographer is different but, at Stinsman Photography, we like to photography your baby within 12-20 days of birth. In general, however, the best time to book a newborn photo session is during your second trimester. That’s usually when most parents begin preparing in earnest for their baby’s arrival—getting the nursery ready, purchasing clothes and items—so that’s the perfect time to add “book a newborn session” to your to do list as well.
Of course, you can always book your session later, but we only take 5 newborns a month to make sure we provide the best service for our clients. We fill up their slots quickly, and if you really want to work with us, the sooner you can book a session, the better. Otherwise we may have limited availability.
When do I schedule my newborn session if I’m not sure when my baby will arrive?
We put your due date on the calendar and then wait to hear from you. We understand that you can’t predict your baby’s arrival and will schedule a definite newborn photoshoot once your little one is born. We ask that you contact us before leaving the hospital and let them know so we can officially get you on the calendar. Booking a newborn session ensures that you have a time slot around your due date, so you don’t need to worry if your baby comes early or late!
How old should my baby be for newborn photos?
We prefer to have babies 12-20 days of age but of course work around your schedule. At this stage, newborns are sleepier and easier to pose. That allows us to get those adorable shots of your child curled up and asleep! Once your baby reaches the one-month mark, they become wigglier and more sensitive to touch, which means slight pose adjustments can easily wake them.
Hopefully, this gives you some insight into when to book your newborn photography session! If you have any questions about my sessions, feel free to ask.
If you would like to see more of our work, please click here for our newborn session portfolio.