If you’re expecting a baby soon, there’s a lot on your mind: nursery prep, hospital bags, tiny clothes, feeding plans. Somewhere in the middle of it all, you might also be wondering: When should I book my newborn session?

It’s a great question and one I hear often from new and expecting parents. Here’s everything you need to know to feel confident and prepared when planning for newborn photos.

The Sweet Spot: Book During Your Second Trimester

The ideal time to book your newborn session is sometime during your second trimester (between 14–28 weeks). By this point, most expecting parents have had time to settle into their pregnancy, and we can start planning for the experience without rushing.

Booking early gives you:

• Flexible scheduling around your due date
• Time to talk through session style: in-home or studio, neutral or colorful, posed or natural
• Access to my client wardrobe and prep guide to make things easier when baby arrives

My calendar tends to fill quickly, especially in spring and fall, so reaching out earlier helps ensure you get a spot around your due date window.

When Will the Session Actually Take Place?

Once you’re booked, we’ll pencil in your due date as a reference point. After baby is born, you’ll simply reach out, and we’ll finalize the actual session date.

For most families, the best time to photograph your newborn is between 5 to 14 days old. During this early window:

• Babies are typically sleepier and easier to settle
• They curl naturally into those cozy, womb-like positions
• We can often capture the tiniest details, flaky skin, fuzzy shoulders, curled fingers, before they begin to change

That said, I’ve photographed babies at three weeks, four weeks, and beyond, especially for lifestyle sessions at home. Every baby is different, and there’s beauty to be found at every stage.

What If Baby Arrives Early (or Late)?

No stress. Truly.

Because we base the session on your baby’s arrival, not the original due date, there’s always flexibility built into the process. Once your little one is here, we’ll find a time that works well for both your recovery and your family’s rhythm.

Whether your baby arrives early or keeps you waiting a bit longer, you’ll still be fully taken care of.

Why Early Booking Matters

Newborn sessions are intentionally gentle and slow-paced, but they take time to prepare for. Booking early ensures you receive:

• A personalized, stress-free planning process.
• Priority scheduling around your due date.
• Access to all session prep resources in advance.
• Peace of mind knowing one more thing is taken care of before baby arrives.

Plus, if you’re considering maternity photos, booking both sessions together allows us to create a cohesive story from bump to baby.

Final Thoughts

The early newborn days pass in a blur of feeding, snuggling, and finding your new rhythm. It’s one of the most tender, fleeting seasons in your life, and one that deserves to be remembered.

Booking your newborn session early means you can stay present in those first few days without worrying about missing your window. I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way, so when the time comes, all you need to do is focus on what matters most.

Ready to book your newborn session? I’d love to help you capture these first days with care and intention.

Reach out anytime to secure your due date window.