When Should I Book My Newborn Photoshoot?
One of the questions I am asked most often by expecting parents is:
"When should I book my newborn photoshoot?"
The simple answer? During your pregnancy, ideally after your 12-week scan.
I know it can feel strange booking a photoshoot before your baby has even arrived, but newborn photography works a little differently to most other types of sessions. Babies arrive on their own schedule, so rather than booking a specific date, you're reserving space in my diary around your due date.
Why Book During Pregnancy?
My diary opens around six months in advance, and I take a limited number of newborn bookings each month.
This isn't about creating urgency or filling my diary as quickly as possible. It's about making sure every family receives the experience they deserve.
By limiting the number of newborn sessions I take each month, I can keep my schedule flexible around your baby's arrival, ensure your session never feels rushed, and have the time to answer your questions and help you prepare every step of the way.
One message I receive regularly sounds something like:
"Katie, I haven't completed my booking yet because they're talking about inducing me early and I don't know what date to choose."
The good news is that you don't need to know.
When you book your newborn session, we're reserving space around your due date rather than committing to a fixed date. Once your little one arrives, we'll finalise the details together.
By booking after your 12-week scan, you'll have the best chance of securing a space in my diary and one less thing to think about as your pregnancy progresses.
When Is the Best Age for a Newborn Photoshoot?
For those beautifully sleepy, curled-up newborn portraits, the ideal time for a newborn session is when your baby is between 7 and 14 days old.
At this stage, babies are often:
Sleepier and easier to settle
Comfortable being gently swaddled
More likely to curl naturally into those classic newborn poses
Still very much in that precious newborn stage
These early days pass so quickly, which is why I aim to photograph babies during this window whenever possible.
One thing I wish every expectant parent knew is that the earlier we can photograph your baby, the more relaxed the experience often is. Babies are typically sleepier, more settled and more comfortable being gently posed.
I know booking something before your baby arrives can feel daunting. You're planning for a little person you've not even met yet.
That's exactly why I'm here to help. From the moment you book, I'll guide you through the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Please don't panic if your baby is already older than 14 days. While this is the ideal window for those sleepy newborn portraits, beautiful images can absolutely still be created beyond this age too.
What Happens Once I've Booked?
As your due date approaches, we'll stay in touch and I'll ask you to let me know when your little one arrives.
Once baby is here, we'll confirm the final date for your session and make any adjustments needed based on their arrival and how everyone is settling into life as a new family.
Every family's journey is different, which is why I keep the process as relaxed and flexible as possible.
This flexible approach means there's no need to worry about babies arriving early, arriving late, or perhaps needing a little extra time to recover.
What If My Baby Arrives Early?
Firstly, don't panic.
One of the reasons I limit the number of newborn bookings I accept each month is so that I can accommodate these unexpected arrivals.
If your baby decides to make an earlier appearance, simply let me know and we'll work together to find the best session date.
What If My Baby Arrives Late?
This is incredibly common!
In fact, many babies seem quite content to keep their parents waiting.
Because your booking is based around your due date rather than a fixed session date, I can simply adjust your session accordingly.
There's no need to worry if your due date comes and goes.
What If My Baby Has Already Arrived?
If your little one is already here and you're only just starting to think about newborn photographs, please still get in touch.
While I can't always guarantee availability at short notice, I will always do my very best to accommodate families where possible.
And remember, if your baby is older than two weeks, it doesn't automatically mean you've missed your chance. Every baby is unique, and beautiful photographs can still be captured beyond the traditional newborn window.
Thinking About a Maternity Session Too?
Some families choose to document their journey from pregnancy through to their baby's first year, starting with a maternity session before welcoming their little one into the studio for newborn photographs.
It's a wonderful way to tell the beginning of your family's story and create a collection of images you'll treasure for years to come.
If you're considering both sessions, I would recommend enquiring during your second trimester so we can plan everything together.
A Little Personal Note
When my own baby was born, I didn't book a newborn photographer.
I told myself I could do it myself.
The reality? I had enough on my plate already.
Instead of capturing those early days, I found myself carrying the mental load of trying to organise it all, and later feeling disappointed that I hadn't documented that stage in the way I had imagined.
It's one of the reasons I'm so passionate about making the process easy for the families I work with.
Those first few weeks pass in a blur, and whilst you'll never regret having the photographs, you might regret missing the opportunity to take them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book my newborn photoshoot before my baby arrives?
Yes. In fact, I recommend booking during pregnancy, ideally after your 12-week scan.
Do I need to know my baby's exact birth date?
Not at all. Your booking is based around your due date, and we'll confirm the session date once baby arrives.
What if my baby arrives early?
Simply get in touch and we'll adjust plans accordingly.
What if my baby arrives late?
That's absolutely fine. Your session is flexible and can be moved to suit your baby's arrival.
What if I've already had my baby?
Please still reach out. If I have availability, I'll always do my best to fit you in.
Ready to Reserve Your Newborn Session?
If you're expecting and would like to secure a newborn session, I recommend getting in touch after your 12-week scan to reserve your space.
And if your little one has already arrived, don't worry. I'd love to hear from you, and I will always do my best to find a date that works for your family.
