What is the ideal time for capturing lifestyle newborn photos in the comfort of your home?
Ah, newborn photos! Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of the most precious and fleeting moments in life. Those first few weeks are filled with snuggles, soft coos, and the sweet scent of a brand-new baby. As a photographer, one of the most common questions I get from new parents is: “When is the best time to have lifestyle newborn photos taken in our home?” This question is important as it helps you capture the most meaningful moments.
The answer? It depends on what kind of moments you want to capture! I’ll walk you through the best timing so you can choose what feels right for your family.
Back it up a bit… What is lifestyle newborn photography?
Blog Outline:
- The First Two Weeks: Sleepy, Curled-Up Newborn Poses
- Weeks 3-6: Awake Moments and Emerging Personality
- Beyond Six Weeks: Connection and Interaction
- What’s the Best Choice for You?
The First Two Weeks: Sleepy, Curled-Up Newborn Photos
If you’re thinking about when is the best time to have newborn photos taken at home, the first two weeks are typically recommended.
If you adore those curled-up, dreamy newborn photos where your little one is extra sleepy and snuggly, scheduling your lifestyle newborn session within the first two weeks is ideal. Babies at this stage are still adjusting to the world and tend to sleep deeply, making it easier to capture those serene, peaceful moments. Plus, they’re still tiny, and those delicate, newborn wrinkles and features are at their freshest! Between 2-3 weeks, that pesky baby acne can show up which isn’t ideal for photos as it can’t be completely edited out. I typically suggest newborn photos before the two-week marker if you’re wanting the freshest of fresh newborn pictures.
Your home environment also plays a significant role in creating a cozy and intimate backdrop for these newborn photos. This period allows you to document the earliest interactions and emotions as you navigate this beautiful journey of parenthood.
Weeks 3-6: Awake Moments and Emerging Personality
Weeks 3-6 are a great time to capture your newborn’s awake moments and emerging personality. During this period, you’ll notice your baby becoming more alert and responsive to the world around them. It’s a wonderful time to document their early interactions with you and other family members (hey there new big brother or sister). The photos taken during these weeks can showcase your baby’s unique traits and expressions as they begin to develop their own personality. By this time, babies begin to focus on faces, stretch out more, and show those sweet expressions. You might catch a little yawn, a curious gaze, or even a hint of a smile! Capturing these moments at home can provide a genuine representation of your family’s journey during this new period.
Remember, when is the best time to have lifestyle newborn photos taken at home can also depend on your family’s specific needs. Sometimes, those first two weeks aren’t an option, or many reasons (a rough recovery, extended stay in the hospital, illness, exhaustion). If that’s the case, that’s okay! We can still create beautiful newborn photos you’ll love up to weeks of age.
Beyond Six Weeks: Connection and Interaction
If you’re not in a rush, you can wait until after six weeks for a more interactive newborn photos session. Your baby will be more engaged with you and their surroundings, which can lead to some heartwarming family moments. Older newborns are still tiny but tend to have longer wakeful periods, allowing for more eye contact and sweet interactions with parents and siblings.
Beyond the six-week milestone, babies become increasingly alert and responsive. These are outside the range of newborn photos, but they offer a valuable opportunity to capture genuine family connections. Engaging with your baby during this stage can result in heartwarming family portraits. By customizing the photoshoot to suit your family’s unique dynamics, you can create lasting memories that reflect this special time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby arrives early or needs to spend time in the NICU?
Every journey is unique, and so is every session. If your baby arrives early or requires extra care, I’ll work with you to reschedule once your family is settled and ready. Safety, comfort, and your baby’s wellbeing always come first.
Should I book my newborn session before my baby is born?
Yes—it’s best to book during your second or early third trimester to ensure availability. Photographers typically reserve a spot around your due date and adjust once your baby arrives. It gives you peace of mind knowing everything is in place ahead of time.
What time of day is best for newborn photos?
Most lifestyle sessions are scheduled in the mid-morning, when homes are filled with natural light and babies tend to be more settled.
What’s the Best Choice for You?
When I brought each of my four babies home, I was too overwhelmed to think about having a photographer come in to our mess and photograph us. However, it’s also one of my biggest regrets. I now know that you don’t need a perfectly decorated and cleaned space to create photos you’ll love forever and I wish I could turn back to clock and have photos taken of all of us during that sweet season of those newborn days.
The beauty of a lifestyle newborn session is that there’s no “wrong” time—it’s all about what feels right for your family. These sessions focus on natural, unposed moments in the comfort of your own home, capturing the love and connection you share. Whether your baby is just a few days old and still sleepy or a bit older and more alert, your photos will tell the unique story of your growing family.
So, if you’re wondering when to schedule your lifestyle newborn photo, think about the moments you want to remember most. And if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to help you find the perfect time to capture these once-in-a-lifetime memories!
For more newborn photography tips, check out my blog!
I appreciate your visit! I’m Sarah, the owner of Sarah Gray Photography, a Tallahassee Photographer who focuses on young and expanding families in North Florida and South Georgia. At the core of my business are these timeless lifestyle newborn sessions, which are the heart of my business. If you want to discuss your own lifestyle newborn session, let’s chat! If you’re not ready yet but want to stay connected, follow me on Instagram!
Sarah is a member of the Professional Photographers of America, The Motherhood Anthology, and a contributor for industry publications such as The National Association of Professional Child Photographers, and The Fount Collective.
I’m passionate about creating beautiful, emotive images that are reflections of natural moments filled with love. As a mom of 4, I know how quickly the years go by. If you’re looking for a Tallahassee photographer who takes natural, gently guided photos that aren’t overly posed and doesn’t use props, then we’ll be a great match.
