When Should I Hire a Newborn Photographer?

Welcoming a new baby into your family is a momentous and joyous occasion. These fleeting first days are filled with precious details and tender moments you will cherish forever. Capturing these memories through professional newborn photography ensures they will be preserved beautifully for years to come. You might be wondering, "When Should I Hire a Newborn Photographer?" Here’s everything you need to know to help you plan.

Book Early, Ideally During Pregnancy The ideal time to hire a newborn photographer is during your second or early third trimester. Many professional newborn photographers—myself included—tend to book up months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Securing your session early not only ensures availability but also gives you time to discuss your preferences and vision with your photographer. This way, you can feel fully prepared for the session once your little one arrives.

When Is the Best Time for the Photo Session? Newborn photo sessions are typically scheduled within the first two weeks of life, ideally between days 5 and 14. During this time, babies are generally sleepier, allowing photographers to capture the baby curled up with sweet, peaceful expressions. After two weeks, babies often become more alert, and colic or baby acne may appear, making it more challenging to achieve the same style of photos.

What If My Baby Is Older? While the first two weeks are ideal, don’t worry if circumstances prevent you from scheduling a session during that time. Beautiful images can still be captured beyond the newborn stage. Many photographers, including myself, adapt sessions to match your baby’s development, focusing on more natural, lifestyle-inspired moments, even if they’re past the newborn phase.

Why Choose a Professional Newborn Photographer? Newborn photography requires not only technical skills but also experience in safely handling delicate infants. A professional photographer will prioritize your baby’s safety and comfort throughout the session. By hiring a seasoned professional, you can relax and enjoy the experience, knowing your little one is in capable hands.

Plan for a Stress-Free Experience Once your session is booked, your photographer will guide you through what to expect and how to prepare. This planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. As part of my service, I encourage parents to feel comfortable feeding, changing, and soothing their baby during the session to keep the atmosphere calm and relaxed.

Hiring a newborn photographer early in your pregnancy is the best way to ensure you’ll have timeless, professional images of your little one’s earliest days. Scheduling the session within the first two weeks of life allows us to capture those sweet, sleepy moments that only last for a short time. Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, these photographs will become treasured keepsakes for your family to look back on for years to come.

If you’re in New Hampshire and expecting, I’d love to help you capture these precious memories. Feel free to reach out to discuss availability and begin planning your session: www.laurielaporte.com.