With a new baby, you will want to have some amazing high-quality photos to preserve their cuteness forever. The best way to do that is to book a professional Newborn Photoshoot.
But at what age should you book your little one in for a session?
The first thing to consider is what you like and which photographer you are going with. The typical age for newborn photos is between 5 days and 2 weeks old, and for many photographers this is the only age they will do a newborn shoot - that way they fit the props, are still flexible enough for any complex poses and sleepy enough to stay asleep throughout the shoot.
My personal preference is simple, comfortable poses, and this also allows me to work with older babies.
I offer newborn photos up to six months old, and I actually love working with awake babies - especially when they are able to smile.
I am going to show you some examples of newborn shoots at different ages with the pros and cons, so you can see what they look like and decide at which age you want to bring your baby in.
5 - 14 days old
Pros
They are still as tiny as they were when they first entered the world.
Almost all babies are happy to be wrapped at this age, so if you had your heart set on a wrapped baby, this is the perfect time to do this.
Cons
If you have had a difficult birth or if it's been a rough transition with little sleep and a fussy baby, you might not feel ready to venture out into the world to go get photos done.
My studio space is up a flight of stairs, which is not great if you are still recovering. Please let me know if this is an issue, because I am also able to do an in-home session if necessary - bringing all the props/equipment with me and setting it up in your living room.
2-6 weeks old
Pros
You will have had a chance to recover from the birth and settle into life with a newborn.
Some babies can still be wrapped at this age, but not all babies are happy to go along with this and they might kick themselves out of the wrap. It's a good idea to have a look at my newborn outfits so you can have a back up plan.
Cons
This is when some babies start to develop baby acne. Please don't be discouraged though, I can use Photoshop to minimise this.
2-3 months old
Pros
Babies that were fussy in the early days usually start to get more comfortable at this age - or you will have probably found out the little tricks that settle your unique little one.
This is when babies are more awake and alert and we get to see their beautiful eyes. There might even be a smile.
Cons
The little tiny newborn features are starting to disappear at this age. But on the plus side, they are starting to look more like themselves. When I look back at photos I took of my kids at this age, they look so much more like they do now as toddlers.
3-6 months old
Pros
This is when their personalities are really starting to come out. There are usually laughs and lots of crazy facial expressions that bring so much joy.
If you are booking the family portrait add-on, it is much easier to do these outdoors at this age than at previous ages.
Cons
Some people may argue that your baby is not really considered a 'newborn' at this age. I am not one of those people. 3-6 month olds are some of my favourite newborn clients.
Milestone Photos
If you have missed out or just want more gorgeous photos of your baby, you can also book a Milestone Photoshoot. I have lots of themes to choose from, or you can request a simple backdrop with no decorations.
These can be done at any age and for any occasion, but the most popular milestone occasions are:
baby learning to sit unsupported (also sometimes referred to as a sitter session)
baby learning to crawl
baby learning to walk
baby's first birthday
parents realising their child is super cute and wanting beautiful photos of their cutie
The first birthdays are often accompanied by cake for the little one to smash, a.k.a. a Cake Smash!
Here are some example of my Milestone themes in action:
I hope this gives you some idea of what options are available, and you can decide what kind of photos you would love to have of your little one.
You can have a look at my Newborn portfolio here to see my work, and get in touch if you have any questions or want to book a shoot.