When to Schedule a Newborn Session

There’s nothing more special than documenting those first tender days with a newborn—tiny fingers, sleepy snuggles, and the quiet joy of a growing family. One of the most common questions I get from expectant parents is:
“When should we schedule our newborn session?”

Here’s everything you need to know to plan ahead and ensure a relaxed, beautiful experience.

The Sweet Spot: Book in Your Second Trimester

I recommend reaching out to schedule your newborn session during your second trimester—typically between 12 and 24 weeks. Booking early ensures you have a reserved spot on my calendar for the month surrounding your due date. Since babies arrive on their own timeline, I only take a limited number of newborns per month to keep things flexible for each family.

Once your baby arrives, we’ll set your actual session date based on when everyone is home, healthy, and ready. I typically photograph newborns in their first 2–3 weeks of life, when babies are still extra sleepy and love to be swaddled or snuggled up close.

**If you would prefer to wait, that’s no problem either! I do get families who prefer to wait until everyone has settled in and the baby is a bit more developed. In that case, I recommend 6-12 weeks of age after the baby acne stage has dissipated. You likely won’t get as many sleepy moments, but we still capture those sweet initial weeks of your baby**

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Why the First Few Weeks Matter

The early weeks are filled with fleeting moments—stretchy yawns, curled-up poses, and that dreamy, milk-drunk sleep. Photographing your baby during this time helps capture those tiny details that change so quickly. It’s also a beautiful window where parents are adjusting to their new rhythm and siblings are just beginning to meet their baby brother or sister.

Recently, I had the joy of photographing a family as they welcomed their second baby girl, Violet. I photographed their firstborn, Clark, two years ago, and watching him gently hold his baby sister just about melted me. It’s moments like these—full of emotion, connection, and growth—that remind me how important it is to preserve each chapter of your story.

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Lifestyle or Lightly Posed—What to Expect

My newborn sessions are relaxed and baby-led. I offer both in-home lifestyle sessions and sessions in my bright, cozy studio. Whether you want timeless portraits in your nursery or soft, neutral backdrops with classic heirloom feels, I’ll help guide you every step of the way. I also occasionally get the family who wants an outdoor newborn session and we can certainly make that happen too.

The goal is always the same: to make you feel comfortable, supported, and fully present with your baby. No stress, no pressure—just love, light, and connection. I get a variety of lifestyle and posed images throughout the day, allowing time for feeding and changing breaks. I bring a few different baskets and swaddles with me that I’ve found look the most atheistically pleasing.

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Returning Clients + Growing Families

One of the greatest joys of my job is seeing families again and again. When past clients return with their newest addition, everything feels familiar and effortless. Your little one might be climbing onto my lap while I photograph their sibling—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you’re expecting a second (or third!) baby, I’d be honored to help you document this beautiful chapter.

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Let’s Plan Your Newborn Session

If you’re newly pregnant or already in your second trimester, now is the perfect time to get in touch. I’d love to walk you through the process, answer any questions, and get your due date on my calendar.

These early days pass in the blink of an eye—but photographs help you remember just how it all began.