When to Schedule Your Twin Cities Newborn Photography Session

One of the most common questions I get from expecting parents is when to take newborn photos. And honestly, it’s such a good question! There’s a lot of information out there, and if this is your first baby, you might not know what to expect or how to plan for it all. I would love to help you figure out when to schedule your Twin Cities newborn photography session.

As a Minnesota-based newborn photographer, I always want this process to feel simple and stress-free for you. So let’s walk through timing, what to expect, and how to choose what feels right for your family.

The Best Time to Take Newborn Photos

The best time to take newborn photos is typically when your baby is between 1–2 weeks old.

During this stage, babies are still super sleepy, naturally curled up, and fit into those cozy, snuggly poses. This is also when they’re still tiny and fresh, which is something so many parents love capturing. Around this time, baby acne usually hasn’t started yet, and babies are often more content. This can definitely make sessions feel a little smoother and more relaxed.

If you’ve ever seen those dreamy, wrapped, sleepy baby photos, they are almost always taken during this early window. It really is such a sweet and special stage.

So if you’re wondering when is the best time to take newborn photos, this 1–2 week period is what most photographers (myself included!) recommend.

What If You Miss That 1–2 Week Window?

No worries at all.  You absolutely did not miss your chance.

While the early days are often considered the best time for sleepy newborn photos, newborn sessions are still so worth doing well beyond that stage. I photograph babies up to 3 months old, and those sessions are just as beautiful. 

Older newborn sessions come with their own set of benefits:

• You’re more settled into a routine with your baby
• You may be feeling better physically and more like yourself
• Your baby is starting to be more alert and interactive
• You might even catch those first little smiles
  

There is something really beautiful about documenting this stage, too. Instead of super curled-up poses, you’ll see more eye contact, more personality, and more connection between you and your baby.

So if you’re still asking yourself when to take newborn photos and feeling unsure because time has passed, I promise it’s not too late. There truly isn’t a “wrong” time, just different moments to capture.

Choosing What Feels Right for Your Family

Every family is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here.

Some parents love the idea of those early, sleepy, posed images and want to prioritize that 1–2 week window. Others feel like they need a little more time to recover, adjust, and settle into a routine before stepping in front of the camera.

Both options are completely valid.

If your priority is those classic, curled-up poses, then aiming for that early timeframe really is the best time to take newborn photos for your vision. But if your priority is feeling more comfortable, more present, and more like yourself, waiting a few extra weeks can make the experience feel so much more enjoyable.

And no matter when you choose, I am here to guide you in preparing for your newborn photography session.

I always want you to feel relaxed and confident during our time together.

When to Schedule Your Newborn Photos

Another big question I get is not just when is the best time to take newborn photos, but when to actually book your session.

I always recommend scheduling your newborn session during your second trimester.

At that point, your due date is penciled in on my calendar, and once the baby arrives, we’ll adjust the exact session date as needed. Babies rarely arrive exactly on their due date, and that’s totally okay. I build flexibility into my schedule for that reason!

Booking early is really important because I only take a limited number of newborn sessions each month. This allows me to give each family the time, care, and attention they deserve, without feeling rushed or overbooked.

If you wait until the baby is already here, there’s a chance my calendar could be full. And I never want you to miss out on capturing this season.

Creating a Relaxed Newborn Session Experience

No matter when you choose to schedule your session, my goal is always the same. I create a calm, easy experience for your family.

Whether we’re photographing your baby at 10 days old or 10 weeks old, we’ll move at your baby’s pace. There’s always time for feeding, soothing, and breaks as needed. There is no pressure for your baby to follow a strict timeline.

And for you? I want you to feel comfortable, taken care of, and able to simply soak in these moments with your baby.

Because at the end of the day, newborn photos are about remembering  the tiny fingers, the way your baby fits in your arms, the connection you’re building as a family.

Planning Your Twin Cities Newborn Session

If you’ve been wondering when to take newborn photos, I hope this helps you feel a little more confident in your decision.

If you’re planning ahead, I recommend reaching out during your second trimester to reserve your spot for Twin Cities newborn photography. From there, we’ll take care of the rest together.

I would absolutely love to document this season for your family. It all goes by so quickly, and it’s so worth remembering. You can inquire about your session here or reach out with any questions. I’m always happy to help you plan something that feels easy and stress-free.