What is the best age for newborn photos?
The little above is from a full newborn session. She was about 3 weeks old, and born early around 36-37 weeks gestation. As you see we got both awake and posed newborn photos.
Ideal Timing: the First 5-10 Days
Photographing newborns within the first two weeks allows for smoother sessions. Babies are sleepier and more flexible, making it easier to capture a variety of poses. My sessions typically last around three hours, ensuring enough time for feeding, soothing, and capturing both awake and asleep moments. While the goal is often to capture those peaceful, sleepy images, many parents also love having a few awake photos to showcase their baby’s personality.
Why earlier sessions are easier:
During this period, newborns are naturally more relaxed due to the relaxant hormone present when they were born, making them easier to pose. This hormone tends to dissipate about 2 weeks old.
Newborns also tend to sleep more, which helps in capturing those serene, curled-up poses.
As babies approach 14 days old, they become more alert and opinionated, which can make the session more challenging.
Additionally, baby acne and colic symptoms often begin after the 2 week mark, so photographing earlier helps avoid these issues.
No Wrong Time for Newborn Photos
While the first two weeks are ideal, there is no wrong time to photograph your baby. Life with a newborn can be unpredictable, and whether your baby is 1 week or even 5 weeks old, beautiful and meaningful images can still be captured. Every age has its own unique charm, and I believe in documenting your baby’s journey at any stage.
Creating Timeless Memories at Any Age
At my photo studios in Redmond and Seattle, I provide a all the props to make a relaxing environment and welcoming your for your baby’s first photo session. Whether your baby is just a few days old or a few weeks old, we will capture timeless memories that you will cherish forever.
If you have any questions or would like to see sample galleries, don’t hesitate to contact me.
I’m here to help you document these fleeting moments with your little one.
