Key takeaways
- The classic, curled newborn look is easiest in the first 5-14 days, when babies are sleepiest.
- Book during pregnancy and we hold a flexible slot around your due date.
- Sessions are unhurried, expect 2-3 hours with breaks for feeding and soothing.
- Older babies are very welcome too, with a more awake, interactive feel.
For those classic, curled, sleepy newborn portraits, timing matters: the easiest window is the first one to two weeks. The best approach is to book during pregnancy so we can hold a flexible slot around your due date, then run an unhurried session once your baby arrives. Here is when to book and exactly what to expect.
When is the best time for newborn photos?
The ideal window for classic newborn portraits is roughly 5 to 14 days old, when babies are at their sleepiest and most flexible, making the curled, settled poses come naturally. As newborn photographers widely agree, after the first couple of weeks babies start to uncurl, stretch out and become more alert, so those foetal-position poses become harder to achieve.
That said, there is no hard cut-off. We happily photograph older babies too, the session simply has a more awake, interactive feel, with lovely eyes-open moments instead.
When should you book?
Book during pregnancy, ideally in the second or third trimester. Because no one can predict the exact arrival date, we reserve a flexible slot around your due date and confirm the precise day once your baby is here. Booking ahead means you are not scrambling in the first tender, tiring weeks of parenthood.
What to expect on the day
Newborn sessions are calm and led entirely by your baby, so allow two to three hours. We keep the studio warm, which helps babies sleep, and build in plenty of breaks for feeding, soothing and nappy changes. There is no rush whatsoever, the unhurried pace is the secret to natural, peaceful images.
Bring a feed, spare nappies, a dummy if you use one, and anything sentimental you would like in the photos, a special blanket, a knitted heirloom or a meaningful toy.
Safety and comfort first
Every pose and prop is chosen with your baby's comfort and safety first. We never force a position, work gently and patiently, and follow your baby's cues throughout. Parents are welcome in shot or close by the whole time.
Those first days pass in a blur, so booking ahead is the kindest thing you can do for yourself. Tell us your due date and we will hold a flexible slot for your newborn session.
Related: Family photography, how to prepare for a newborn shoot, baby and newborn sessions, book a session.