Newborn Photography Denver | Lucky Friday Studios
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Blog | Lucky Friday Studios

This is where I share my favorite images from maternity, newborn, motherhood and family photography sessions.  Sessions featured are located in my beautiful natural light studio in Centennial or on location throughout Denver, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Lone Tree, Englewood, Cherry Hills, Greenwood Village, Castle Rock and Parker, Colorado.

The Best Time To Do Newborn Photos

 

THE BEST TIME TO DO NEWBORN PHOTOS

A GUIDE FOR NEW PARENTS

The Best Time to Do Newborn Photos: A Guide for NEW Parents

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of the most magical experiences in life. Those tiny fingers, delicate features, and sweet newborn expressions change so quickly, making a newborn session one of the most amazing and important way to preserve these precious early days. If you’re considering scheduling a newborn photo session, you may be wondering: when is the best time to capture these beautiful memories?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ideal timeframe for newborn portraits, what to expect at different stages, and tips for ensuring a successful session.

The Ideal Time for Newborn Photography: Days 1 to 14

The best time to photograph a newborn is typically within the first 14 days after birth. Here’s why:

  • Sleepy and Curled Up – In the first two weeks, newborns sleep deeply and naturally curl up in fetal positions, making it easier to get through a session and document how tiny they are.

  • Minimal Skin Issues – Newborns are born with soft, smooth skin. Around the two-week mark, some babies develop baby acne, peeling skin, or other minor blemishes, which can make editing more challenging.

  • Fewer Startle Reflexes – Younger babies tend to be less fidgety, with fewer sudden movements, making it easier to capture calm, peaceful images.

Because of these factors, I recommend booking your session well before birth and scheduling it within the first two weeks of life.

What If You Miss the Two-Week Window?

While the first two weeks are ideal, that doesn’t mean you can’t get beautiful photos if your baby is a little older! Here’s what to expect at different stages:

2 to 6 Weeks Old

  • Babies become more alert and start to stretch out, so your session might last a bit longer.

  • You’ll likely get more awake shots with cute expressions and eye contact.

  • Some newborn characteristics, such as the tiny curled-up look, may start to fade.

  • This stage is great for a mix of awake and sleeping portraits.

6 Weeks to 3 Months Old

  • Babies are more interactive, smiling, and beginning to show personality.

  • Classic newborn poses are usually not possible, but you can capture sweet expressions and interactions with parents.

  • Tummy time shots and family lifestyle sessions work beautifully at this stage.

3+ Months Old

  • Babies start to push up during tummy time, hold their heads up, and develop chubby cheeks and expressive eyes.

  • You’ll capture plenty of giggles and cute reactions!

  • While it’s no longer a “newborn” session, this is a wonderful milestone to document.


Tips for a Successful Newborn Photo Session

To make the most of your newborn photography experience, follow these simple tips:

1. Schedule Early

I sometimes book up months in advance, so it’s best to schedule your session during your pregnancy—ideally in your second or third trimester. Once your baby arrives, we can finalize the exact session date based on how you are feeling at that time.

2. Choose the Right Time of Day

Morning sessions often work best since babies tend to be sleepier and more settled. A well-rested baby is easier to work with and more likely to stay calm throughout the session. I like to aim for around 10 a.m.

3. Keep the Room Warm

Newborns are used to the warmth of the womb, so keeping the room at a comfortable temperature (around 75-80°F) can help them stay cozy and relaxed.

4. Feed Your Baby Before the Session

A full baby is a happy baby! Try to feed your little one right before the session to ensure they are calm and sleepy. Be prepared for feeding breaks if needed. I always reserve the studio for you with ample time in case your baby needs a bit of extra time for feeding and settling.

5. Dress Baby in Loose Clothing

Avoid tight clothing or anything that needs to be pulled over the head before your session, as it can leave marks on the baby’s skin. Instead, opt for a loose-fitting onesie that can be easily removed.

6. Be Patient and Relaxed

Newborn sessions can take time—typically 2 to 3 hours—to allow for feeding, soothing, and settling. Babies can be unpredictable, and that’s okay! A relaxed atmosphere helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts

The best time to do newborn photos is within the first two weeks after birth when babies are sleepiest, easiest to pose, and still have that fresh, newborn look. However, if you miss this window, don’t stress! Every stage of your baby’s development is beautiful and worth capturing.

Whether you choose a single newborn session or join my milestones membership to document your baby’s first year, what matters most is preserving these precious moments. They grow so fast—don’t miss the chance to document this incredible time in your baby’s life!

Be sure to check out my friend, Julie’s, awesome blog post about debunking 4 common myths about newborn photography!  She is the best in Louisville newborn photography and always gives new parents the most wonderful information!



Kami Vanousfeatured newborn post4 Comments