When to Book Your Newborn Session | Inland Empire Newborn Photographer

Newborn Photography: When to Book Your Session (And Why Timing Matters)

Congratulations—you’re expecting! 🎉

Between setting up the nursery, reading all the baby books, and trying to remember what sleep feels like, newborn photography might not be at the top of your to-do list. But here’s something most new parents don’t realize: when you book your newborn session matters just as much as the session itself.

Let me explain exactly when to book, why timing is so important, and how to make sure you secure your spot for those precious early photos.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Session?

The ideal time to book: During your second trimester (around 20-28 weeks)

I know that sounds early, but here’s why it makes sense:

  1. Availability Gets Booked Up: As a newborn photographer, I only take a limited number of sessions each month to ensure I can give each family the time and attention they deserve. If you wait until after baby arrives, there’s a chance I’ll already be booked during your ideal window.
  2. One Less Thing to Think About Postpartum: Trust me on this—after baby arrives, you’ll be exhausted, overwhelmed, and definitely not in the mood to research photographers. Getting this checked off your list early means you can focus on snuggling your new baby instead of scrambling to book a session.
  3. We Can Plan Around Your Due Date: When you book early, I hold a tentative spot on my calendar around your due date. Once baby arrives, you just send me a quick text and we finalize the exact session date based on when they were born.

What if Baby Arrives Early or Late?

Don’t worry—this happens all the time! When you book with me during pregnancy, I keep your due date window flexible. Whether baby comes two weeks early or decides to stay cozy for an extra week, we adjust your session date accordingly. No stress, no penalties.

The Sweet Spot: 5-14 Days Old

The best time for a newborn session is within the first two weeks of life, ideally between days 5-14. Here’s why:

  • Babies are still very sleepy – Making it easier to capture those curled-up, peaceful poses
  • They haven’t developed baby acne yet – Which often appears around week 2-3
  • They’re still flexible – Newborns naturally curl up in those sweet, womb-like poses
  • You’re still in the newborn bubble – But have had a few days to settle in at home

What if You’re Past Two Weeks?

It’s not too late! While the 5-14 day window is ideal, I absolutely still do sessions for older newborns. We might not get as many of those super curly poses, but we’ll capture beautiful awake photos, tiny details, and the connection between you and your baby. Every stage is worth documenting.

What About Last-Minute Bookings?

Sometimes life happens and you don’t book until after baby arrives—I get it! If you’re reading this and your baby is already here, reach out anyway. I always try to squeeze in last-minute newborns when possible, especially if you’re flexible with timing.

Here’s How Booking Works:

  • Step 1: Reach out during your second trimester
  • Step 2: We’ll chat about your vision, answer any questions, and get you on the calendar
  • Step 3: I send you a preparation guide with everything you need to know
  • Step 4: When baby arrives, send me a text with the birth details!
  • Step 5: We finalize your session date (usually 5-10 days after birth)
  • Step 6: You come to the studio for your newborn session
  • Step 7: You will return to the studio for your “Reveal” ordering appointment within 2-3 weeks

What’s Included in a Newborn Session?

  • Up to 2 hours session in studio of baby, parents and/or siblings.
  • Multiple setups with different wraps, props, and backgrounds
  • Lifestyle – combination of guided and storytelling poses.
  • A relaxed, baby-led approach (we work around feeding and soothing)
  • All fabrics, props and baby outfits are provided.
  • Styling support for parents and siblings.
  • In-person ordering appointment to review and purchase your images.
  • Session Fee does NOT include prints, products or digital files.

Ready to Book?

If you’re expecting and want to make sure newborn photos are taken care of, let’s chat! You can contact me here or send me an email at vanessa@vanessakunsphotography.com.

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