Newborn photoshoot: when to book and what to expect
There’s something about those first few weeks that feels impossible to hold onto.
The tiny fingers curled around yours.
The way they fit perfectly against your chest.
The sleepy stretches, soft skin, and little expressions that change almost overnight.
A newborn photoshoot is about preserving this chapter before it quietly passes — creating photographs that bring you back to exactly how it felt.
If you’re considering booking a newborn session, here’s everything you need to know about when to book and what to expect.
When Should You Book a Newborn Photoshoot?
The best time to book your newborn photoshoot is during pregnancy — ideally in your second trimester or early third trimester.
Most photographers only take a limited number of newborn bookings each month because babies rarely arrive exactly on their due date. Booking ahead allows space and flexibility around your baby’s arrival.
At Emma Barrow Photography, your due date is reserved first, then your session date is confirmed once baby arrives.
What Is the Best Age for Newborn Photos?
Newborn sessions are usually photographed within the first 5–14 days after birth.
During this stage, babies are typically:
Sleepier and more settled
Naturally curled and womb-like in their movements
Easier to gently pose comfortably
Less affected by baby acne or colic that can develop later
That said — there is no “too late.”
Beautiful newborn photographs can still be created after two weeks, especially with a more natural, baby-led approach focused on connection and storytelling rather than heavily posed images.
What Happens During a Newborn Photoshoot?
One of the biggest worries parents have is:
“What if my baby cries the whole time?”
The truth is — newborn sessions are designed around your baby.
There is no pressure for them to “perform.” Time is allowed for:
Feeding
SettlingNappy changes
Cuddles and breaks
A newborn session is calm, slow paced, and completely baby-led.
The experience is intentionally gentle so you can relax and simply be present.
What Should You Wear?
The focus of newborn photography is connection and emotion, so soft neutral tones photograph beautifully.
Think:
Creams
Whites
Taupes
Soft earthy colours
Simple textures
Avoid large logos or bright distracting patterns so the images feel timeless.
For mums especially — comfort matters most. Flowing dresses, soft knitwear, or relaxed fabrics work beautifully and photograph naturally.
Should Parents and Siblings Be Included?
Absolutely.
Years from now, these photographs become more than portraits of your baby — they become memories of your family at the very beginning of a new chapter.
Parent and sibling images often become the most treasured photographs from the session.
The tiny hand wrapped around your finger.
Your toddler kissing baby’s forehead.
The way you looked at them in those first days.
These are the details worth remembering.
Where Do Newborn Sessions Take Place?
Newborn sessions can take place:
In a photography studio
In your home
Or in a lifestyle setting with natural light
An in-home newborn session can feel especially meaningful because it captures the environment you brought your baby home to — the nursery, the feeding chair, the quiet moments in your own space.
Preparing for Your Session
You don’t need to arrive with a perfectly settled baby or everything organised.
The most important thing is simply showing up.
A few helpful things to bring or prepare:
Extra nappies and wipes
Muslins/burp cloths
Milk or feeding essentials
A dummy if you use one
Neutral outfits for family photographs
Most importantly: allow yourself to slow down.
This season moves quickly, even on the days that feel long.
Why Newborn Photography Matters
Newborn photographs are not just for now.
They become part of your family history.
The images your child will one day look back on.
The proof that you were there too.
The reminder of how deeply loved they were from the very beginning.
Because the newborn stage doesn’t stay small for long.
Thinking About Booking a Newborn Photoshoot?
If you’re expecting and considering a newborn session, it’s always best to enquire during pregnancy to secure availability around your due date.
Explore newborn and motherhood photography at Emma Barrow Photography or browse more inspiration on Instagram @emmabarrowphotography.
Ready to book your session? Get in touch to schedule yours today.
Discover the latest photoshoot ideas, tip, updates and more
Join the monthly newsletter from Emma
+ receive a free, helpful posing guide when you join.