When to Do Newborn Photography
One of the questions I hear most often is about when to do newborn photography.
The typical recommendation is when your baby is around 1–2 weeks old — that’s when they’re often sleepiest and tiniest. But as a Seattle newborn photographer (and mom of six!), I’m here to tell you: there’s no single “perfect” time for your session.
The right time is when you feel ready.
Those first days can be beautiful — but they can also be exhausting. You’re recovering, figuring out feedings, and adjusting to a whole new rhythm of life. That’s why my approach to when to do newborn photography is flexible, gentle, and completely centered around your comfort.
Why In-Home Newborn Photography Is So Comforting
If the idea of leaving the house with a days-old baby sounds overwhelming (and honestly, who could blame you?), an in-home newborn photography session might be exactly what you need.
You don’t have to pack a thing — I come to you. Your home becomes the backdrop of your story: the nursery you lovingly prepared, the couch where you’ve spent hours cuddling.
With in-home sessions, it’s perfectly fine if your baby is a bit older. I regularly photograph babies between 3–6 weeks old, and those sessions are just as beautiful — sometimes even more meaningful, because everyone feels more settled.
When to Do Newborn Photography for Older Babies
If your baby is a few weeks old, the photos will look a little different — and that’s okay! Older newborns are often more alert and expressive. You might get sweet eye contact, little smiles, or those wide-eyed stares that melt your heart.
They might not curl up quite as tiny or stay asleep the entire time, but you’ll get moments that show your baby’s growing personality — and that connection you’ve been building since day one.
There’s absolutely no pressure to photograph your baby at five days old. Every family’s journey looks different, and every stage has its own kind of magic.
The Best Time to Do Newborn Photos? When You’re Ready.
So, truly — when to do newborn photography depends on you.
If you’re ready early, we’ll capture those delicate, sleepy details. If you need more time to recover and settle into life as a new family, I’ll meet you there — no rush, no stress.
Because your baby will be perfect, whether they’re five days old or five weeks old. And your story deserves to be documented in a way that feels real, calm, and full of love.
Ready to Plan Your Session?
If you’ve been wondering when to do newborn photography, the answer is simple: when it feels right.
Whether your baby is brand new or already flashing little smiles, we’ll create a relaxed, heartfelt session in your own home — no pressure, no rushing, just your beautiful, fleeting season of new life.