When should you book a newborn photography session? Austin Newborn Photography Guide

When should I book my newborn session?” Newborn photography is all about timing, and each stage offers something unique.

Whether your vision is a softly posed studio session, a relaxed in-home lifestyle session, or capturing your baby a little older, here is what to expect.

Book during pregnancy for Newborn Studio and Newborn Lifestyle.

The best time to reserve your newborn session is during your second or early third trimester. Most of us newborn photographers only take a limited number of due dates each month to allow flexibility when babies arrive on their own schedule. We use your due date as a place holder, and schedule the session once the baby arrives.

Booking early ensures your spot is reserved for that smushy newborn style you're after.

Newborn Studio - 7-14 days old.

Studio newborn sessions are typically photographed within the first two weeks of life, when babies are sleepy and able to curl into those cute little positions you love so much.

These sessions focus on soft, timeless images with a peaceful and baby-led approach. The studio is warm, quiet, and designed to create a calm environment where we move slowly and never rush your baby. If you like a crisper and clean look of the studio, these are for you.

In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Sessions 1-3 weeks old.

Lifestyle newborn photography takes place in the comfort of your home and is usually done within the first two weeks. These sessions are relaxed, natural, and centered on connection. I will still "pose" you and direct the shoot but with candid images in mind. The baby in your arms, various angles, close ups, snuggles, and a feeling of "a peek into your life with the new baby". You will need to prepare your home for these sessions in the form of de-cluttering and minimal cleaning. I will also move items or furniture around slightly as needed.

These sessions are also perfect for babies that have older siblings. The toddlers and kids can play with their toys while we get various shots when it's "not their turn" and feel completely at ease in their own house.

Older Newborn Lifestyle Sessions 6 weeks old.

If the early newborn window passes, it is never too late. Around six weeks, babies are more alert, make eye contact, yawn, smile, and begin to show a little personality. While this age group misses the window for the smushy poses you gain in the sweetness of the older baby connecting with you in the photos.

The 3-5 month Baby Lifestyle Sessions - a secret favorite!

Four months is one of the most underrated stages to photograph and I wish more parents booked these sessions! Here your baby is incredibly social and smiling nonstop, have developed chunky little bodies, can hold their head up and nearly sit, yet they are still not fully mobile so the session is easy as we are not chasing a baby around! You also might feel more rested and photo ready around this time. These sessions are a dream!

Ready to Reserve Your Session?

If you are expecting or recently welcomed your babyI would love to help you plan your newborn photography experience. Reach out anytime to reserve your session or ask questions about timing.

Contact Erin