Hey There! I’m Jenn. I’m a Newborn Photographer in Vancouver BC and I get this question a lot. I wanted to share some of the reasons why it’s fine to photograph your baby “later”. If you have any questions or would like to chat feel free to reach out.
How old should your baby be for a newborn photoshoot?
This is a really common question. And you might find a variety of answers. The most common response will be 1-2 weeks. This is because a lot of photographers specialize in very posed photos and a sleepy baby is desired. Newborn photoshoots can be done later though. Here’s a look at some of my favorite ages to photograph your baby.
1. 6-14 Days
6-14 days is often recommended because at this age they are often quite sleepy. The typical posed newborn photos rely on a sleepy baby in order to move them around without waking them. If you are nursing, you may have a better handle on it at this time. This means the baby is eating well and a fed baby, is a content baby. I don’t normally do earlier than this because your milk is still coming in. It also takes time for your family to adjust to everything. I want to make sure that all of my clients are comfortable when sitting through their photoshoots.
2. 14-28 Days
Is this age too old for a newborn photoshoot? No. It’s completely fine to photograph newborns after this stage. Some photographers prefer not to because they pose baby a lot more during their photos. This means that baby should be sleepy and content when moved around. And it is true that it is a bit harder once the baby is more alert and aware of their surroundings. My style is a lot more relaxed with posing, which means I’m flexible with the age. The bonus: We often get awake photos and get to capture your little one’s tiny personality.
3. 1-2 Months
Typically after 1 month, I do more of a relaxed session. Meaning, I don’t usually pose them too much. I work with them while they are awake or asleep. I’ll often put them in a white wrap or a simple white onesie. I’ll capture lots of content awake photos and maybe asleep as well. I go with the flow of the baby at this age. It is still possible to get posed photos, but I do not promise it.
4. Older than 2 months
At this age, I consider it a baby, or milestone session. This just means that the entire session is baby-led. I love this age! Baby will lay down on blankets and look up at the camera, or in a basket, and also look at parents during the family portion. It’s so cute! At this age, I usually use a lot of white with rompers, onesies, and simple dresses.
Do you have a baby and are wondering if it’s too late for a photoshoot? It’s not. No matter the age. Their tiny personalities should be captured. I’d love to chat about it more with you. Fill out my contact form below and I’ll get in touch.
7 Benefits of Doing Your Newborn Photoshoot Early
Typically 6-14 days
- Your baby doesn’t usually do much except sleep and eat
- Your baby hasn’t gotten used to sleeping undisturbed
- You’ll get more posed sleeping photos which will result in a larger gallery to choose from
- We could capture more difficult poses
- The session will likely take less time
- Baby might be a bit smaller than if you wait
- Both parents are often off work
7 Benefits of Doing Your Newborn Photoshoot Later
Typically 14-60 days
- You’ll be a little bit more adjusted and comfortable going out
- You’ll get more awake photos with eye contact
- Siblings might have gotten used to the baby a little more
- You’ll get more lifestyle/simple posed photos
- Your baby will likely be eating well so they will be comfortable
- You’ll see a little bit more of your baby’s personality
- Simple posing flow will ensure a stress free session
