Welcoming a new baby into the world is an unforgettable moment, filled with love, excitement and a fair amount of sleepless nights! Those first days with your little one are incredibly special but they pass by so quickly. Before you know it, your newborn will have grown and changed, losing some of those tiny details that make this stage so magical. A professional newborn photoshoot is the perfect way to preserve these early memories, capturing every curl, yawn and stretch for you to treasure forever.
Why 5–14 Days Is the Ideal Window
The best time for a newborn photoshoot is usually when your baby is between 5 and 14 days old. During this stage, babies are still very sleepy and flexible, which makes it easier for a professional newborn photographer to gently guide them into those natural, curled-up positions that reflect how they were in the womb resulting in those beautifully serene portraits that parents love.
After two weeks, babies often become more alert and start to stretch out, which can make those classic newborn poses more difficult to achieve. Some babies may also develop colic or baby acne around this time. While a skilled baby photographer can capture gorgeous images at any age, the 5–14 day period is perfect if you want to capture that dreamy, peaceful look.
What to Expect at Your Baby Photoshoot
Many parents are unsure of what happens during a baby photoshoot, especially when they are still adjusting to life with a newborn. Sessions are carefully planned to be calm, relaxed and completely baby-led. A typical photoshoot may last between two and four hours, giving plenty of time for feeding, nappy changes and cuddles. Nothing is rushed, and the comfort and safety of your baby always comes first.
The studio is kept warm and cosy to help your baby settle, and soft, white noise may be used to create a soothing environment. Safety is always the top priority for any professional newborn photographer, with gentle poses that support your baby naturally. Parents are also encouraged to join in. Whether you choose a package that includes you in the photographs or prefer timeless close-ups of tiny hands and feet, your session will be tailored to your family.
Including Family in Your Newborn Session
A newborn photoshoot doesn’t have to be only about your baby but also about capturing the love and connection of your growing family. Many parents choose to include siblings, who play such an important role in these early days. Holding their baby brother or sister in their arms makes for a truly heart-warming portrait. Parents, too, often feature in these sessions, creating meaningful family photographs that your child will cherish as they grow. I offer a range of packages to accommodate whatever your vision is for your photoshoot from photographs of just your newborn to whole family portraits.
Booking Your Newborn Photographer in Advance
Because the perfect time for a newborn photoshoot is such a short window, it is best to book early. Most parents secure their session during pregnancy, often around the 20-week mark, to ensure their chosen newborn photographer has availability. Once your baby arrives, the exact date can be confirmed. This way, you can relax knowing those precious first days will be beautifully documented.
If you wait until after your baby has been born, you may find that your preferred baby photographer is already fully booked. Planning ahead ensures you do not miss the chance to capture those fleeting newborn moments. If you’re based in or around Rugby, contact me today to arrange your baby’s first photoshoot.
A newborn photoshoot is more than just pictures. It is about preserving a moment that will never come again. By booking within the first 5–14 days or before, you can be sure to capture your baby’s earliest days in the most beautiful and natural way.
