If you’re wondering when to book your newborn photoshoot, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I receive from expecting parents in London.
To capture those beautifully curled, sleepy poses, the ideal time for newborn photography is between 7 and 14 days after birth.
During this short window, babies are naturally sleepier and still love to curl up into those womb-like positions. This makes it easier to gently pose them and create the soft, timeless newborn images so many parents fall in love with.
I don’t recommend scheduling your session earlier than five days after birth. In the first few days, babies are still adjusting to feeding and sleeping patterns. By day five, most newborns are more settled, which makes for a smoother and calmer session.
The sleepier your baby is, the easier it is to photograph those classic newborn poses especially the beautiful, natural images where baby is wrapped or gently posed.
Newborn's delicate touch and tiny feet
What If My Baby Is Older Than Two Weeks?
Yes , you can still take newborn photos after two weeks.
The style of the session simply shifts slightly.
After the two-week mark, babies are typically more alert. They begin stretching out their arms and legs and may not curl up as easily. Instead of focusing on very posed images, we often move towards:
Awake portraits
Wrapped or clothed images
Natural family moments
Parent-and-baby photographs
And these are just as meaningful.
In fact, slightly older newborn sessions often include more eye contact and beautiful connection between you and your baby.
So if two weeks have passed, don’t worry it is never “too late” to capture this stage.
How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photoshoot
Newborn photography sessions usually last around 2–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, settling, and cuddles.
Here are a few simple tips to help your session run smoothly:
• Feed Baby Before the Session
A well-fed baby is generally more relaxed and sleepy. If you’re bottle-feeding, bring extra milk. If you’re breastfeeding, we can pause anytime your baby needs you.
• Dress Baby in Loose Clothing Before Arrival
Avoid tight outfits that leave marks on the skin. Even though newborns are usually photographed wrapped or lightly clothed, loose clothing beforehand helps keep their skin smooth.
• Keep Accessories Simple
A soft bonnet or knit beanie can add warmth and texture without overwhelming the image. Simple always photographs best.
• Stay Relaxed
Babies are incredibly sensitive to energy. I’ll gently settle and soothe your baby throughout the session, and you’ll always be nearby. The calmer the environment, the smoother everything flows.
• Bring a Spare Outfit for Yourself
If you’re planning to be in the photos (which I always encourage), it’s wise to bring a backup just in case of little accidents.
Why Timing Matters
The newborn stage passes incredibly quickly. Those tiny fingers, curled toes, and sleepy stretches change within weeks.
Taking the time to document this moment isn’t just about beautiful images, it’s about preserving a chapter of your family story.
One day, your child will look back at these newborn photographs and see just how small they once were. And that moment will be just as meaningful as the day you first held them.