As a Munich Newborn Photographer, I am often asked when the best time to take newborn photos is. My simple answer: when it is best for YOU.

My longer answer? Well, it depends.

Every family has a different story with different needs and a different idea as to what newborn photos look like. Choosing when to take newborn photos depends on the type of session and the types of photos you want. It is also important to plan a session when it feels right to you as a new mom. As a lifestyle photographer, my focus is on the connection of the family as a whole, and that means we have a lot of flexibility with timing.

So when should you take newborn photos?

I like to say that newborn photography happens anywhere between the first 5–15 days of life and up to 6 weeks old. Most families I work with choose to have newborn photos taken around 10–14 days old. This sweet spot allows families the chance to settle in and adjust to new routines. It gives the chance to get going with feeding and allows Mom the chance to rest and recover a bit. You’ll be surprised how quickly they grow, and for some moms, it feels important to capture them at their tiniest.

Your recovery and family needs will decide when you should take newborn photos.

Every birth and postpartum experience is different. Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all plan where you will know exactly how you’ll feel and when. The last thing I want you to be stressing about during this vulnerable and sensitive time is finding the “perfect” time to have newborn photos before it is “too late”. You’re already juggling so much. The end of pregnancy isn’t easy, you’ve just given birth, and now you’re juggling recovery, feeding, sleep (haha), and keeping a tiny human alive and safe (and you may have other kids on top of everything!).

Is my baby too old for newborn photos if I wait longer than two weeks?

Nope!

The best part about lifestyle newborn photography is the flexibility. There is really no set-in-stone date as to what the best age to take newborn photos is. There are just different outcomes with different ages and with different babies. And honestly, that’s great news for parents. Whether you’re bringing home your first baby or your second or third, settling into life with a newborn is an adjustment–especially if you have other young children. You don’t need any added pressure to schedule your session soon after birth if you’re just not ready or life happens.

What to expect at a newborn session based on their age:

5-10 days

• Baby is at his/her most sleepy and most tiny
• Most will have re-gained birth weight / feeding becomes more established
• Jaundice improves
• Your postpartum hormones begin to stabilize

~10 Days

• Growth spurt, cluster feed, baby acne and/or flaky skin develops
• Routines start to appear and everyone starts to feel a bit more settled

>2 Weeks

• Baby becomes more alert
• However, baby may feel more unsettled between 3–5 weeks which mean cluster feeding and witching hour may be your new norm

6-8 weeks

• Baby tends to feel more settled, awake and curious
• Baby is often starting to smile
• Sibling bond has the chance to develop

When should I book my newborn session?

Now that you know a bit more of what to expect when you’re taking newborn photos, when should you book a photographer?

I encourage you to book while pregnant. This allows us to plan the details before the baby arrives – as the time and brain space to make decisions in those early days is often harder than one expects. And it allows you to reserve a spot in my calendar, so I hold availability for you when you’re ready.

What do I mean by “plan the details”? I mean picking the outfits to make sure you are happy with what you choose or having time to shop for something special. Some quiet time to read through my session preparation guide, to make sure all your questions are answered, to know what to expect before during and after the session; but also start to think about what you want to do with your images in your home.

However, if your baby is already here, you’re not too late! If you’re interested in booking a newborn session, I’d love to be the lucky one to capture this unforgettable time in your family’s story. Reach out today so I can get you on my calendar!