When Should You Book Newborn Photos?
If you’re pregnant and reading this, there’s a good chance this question has already popped into your head (probably late at night, while scrolling):
“When am I actually meant to book newborn photos?”
Some parents assume it’s something you organise after the baby arrives. Others worry they’ve already left it too late. And plenty sit in the middle, knowing they want photos, but feeling unsure about the timing.
You’re not behind. You’re not doing it wrong.
Let’s talk it through properly, in a calm, no-pressure way.
The short answer (for tired brains)
Most families book their newborn photography during pregnancy, ideally sometime in the second or early third trimester.
Not because babies are predictable (they definitely aren’t), but because photographers book out in advance and because planning this one thing early makes the newborn stage feel lighter.
That’s the short version. Now let me explain why.
“But babies don’t arrive on schedule…”
You’re absolutely right, babies have zero interest in calendars.
This is one of the biggest reasons parents hesitate to book early. They worry about locking in a date, committing too soon, or feeling stressed if plans change.
Here’s how newborn booking actually works (at least with me):
We book your session on your due date, (so I have a rough idea as to when they will arrive)
Once your baby arrives, you let me know
We then choose the best date together, usually within the first 1–3 weeks
If your baby comes early, late, or somewhere in between, we adjust.
There’s flexibility built into the process, because that’s real life.
Booking early doesn’t mean rigid planning. It means having a spot held for you.
Why booking before birth is actually kinder to yourself
Those early weeks with a newborn are beautiful… and hazy.
You’re recovering.
You’re feeding around the clock.
You’re learning your baby.
You’re adjusting to a whole new rhythm.
This is not the season where most parents want to:
research photographers
compare styles and pricing
check availability
send enquiry emails
When newborn photos are booked ahead of time, you don’t need to think about any of that. It’s already sorted. You can stay in your bubble, knowing it’s taken care of.
So many parents tell me, “I’m so glad we booked this before the baby arrived, I would never have had the headspace after.”
What happens if you wait until after birth?
Sometimes it works out. And sometimes it doesn’t.
The reality is:
Newborn photographers can only take a limited number of sessions per month
Popular weeks book out early
Waiting can mean missing out, or needing to compromise on style or availability
I often hear from parents who reach out after birth, feeling disappointed or stressed because their first choice photographer is already booked.
Booking during pregnancy helps avoid that entirely.
So… when is the best time to book?
If you like clear guidance, here it is:
Second trimester: Ideal
Early third trimester: Still great
Late pregnancy: Worth enquiring, but availability may be limited
If you’re earlier than that and just want information, that’s okay too. You don’t need to commit straight away — starting the conversation early is always welcome.
A note about my approach (and why it matters for timing)
I photograph newborns in your home, using natural light, in a relaxed and baby-led way.
That means:
No studio
No props or baskets
No rushing
No expectation that your baby sleeps perfectly (or at all)
Because sessions are calm and unstructured, I limit how many I take each month. Booking ahead ensures I can give each family the time and care they deserve.
If you’re also considering a newborn film alongside photos, booking early is especially helpful, as these sessions are a little more involved and intentionally unhurried.
If you’re pregnant and feeling unsure
If this blog has answered one question but raised another, that’s completely normal.
You don’t need to have everything figured out.
You don’t need to book on the spot.
And you definitely don’t need to feel pressured.
If you’d like to chat about timing, availability, or whether my style is right for your family, you’re very welcome to book a discovery call or send through an enquiry. Sometimes a quick conversation is all it takes to feel clear.
And if now isn’t the right time? That’s okay too.
Just know this: when it comes to newborn photos, earlier planning usually means a calmer experience later.
