One of the most common questions I hear is how early someone should reach out to book a newborn session. The quick response is earlier than most people anticipate. Newborn photography works differently from other types of sessions, and timing plays a big role in how flexible and calm the experience can be.
When someone contacts me while they’re still pregnant, it gives us room to plan without pressure. Newborns don’t arrive on a set schedule, so booking ahead allows space for the unexpected.
Why Booking Before Your Baby Arrives Helps
I always recommend reaching out during pregnancy, ideally in the second or early third trimester. At that stage, we can tentatively plan around your due date rather than a fixed calendar day.
Newborn sessions aren’t scheduled like regular appointments. Babies arrive early, late, and sometimes on their own timeline. When someone books in advance, I hold space in my calendar around their due window instead of trying to fit them in last minute.
This approach keeps sessions flexible and prevents parents from feeling rushed during an already full time.
What Happens If You Wait Until After Birth
Some families wait until after their baby arrives to start looking for a photographer. While that can still work occasionally, it often limits options.
Newborn sessions typically take place within the first couple of weeks after birth, when babies are sleepier and more settled. If I’m already booked, availability during that window can be limited. Reaching out early increases the chance of securing a spot that works well for both the baby and the family.
Waiting can also add unnecessary stress. Those first days are full of adjustment, and trying to coordinate photography at the same time can feel overwhelming.
How Far in Advance I Hold Space
When someone books a newborn session with me, I don’t lock them into a specific day right away. Instead, I note their due date and plan availability around it.
Once the baby arrives, parents let me know, and we schedule the session based on how everyone is doing. This approach allows room for recovery, feeding routines, and rest. It also keeps the session feeling calm rather than tightly scheduled.
What If Plans Change
Flexibility is built into how I schedule newborn sessions. Babies need breaks. Parents need rest. If adjustments are needed, we make them.
Booking early doesn’t mean everything has to be decided upfront. It simply gives us a framework so we’re not trying to make decisions quickly during a sensitive time.
When to Reach Out If You’re Already Past the Due Date
If your baby has already arrived and you haven’t booked yet, it’s still worth reaching out. Sometimes availability opens up, and I’m always honest about what’s possible.
That said, contacting a newborn photographer early offers the most flexibility and the smoothest experience.
Planning Ahead Makes the Experience Easier
Newborn photography works best when there’s space to move slowly. Reaching out in advance allows the session to be planned around your baby, not the other way around.
If you’re expecting and considering newborn photos, contacting a photographer ahead of time gives you one less thing to think about once your baby arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time during pregnancy to contact a newborn photographer?
Most families reach out during the second or early third trimester to allow time for planning.
Do I need to choose a session date before my baby is born?
No. Sessions are scheduled after birth based on how the baby and parents are doing.
What if my baby arrives early or late?
That’s expected. Booking in advance allows flexibility around your baby’s actual arrival.
My love for photography began in a high school darkroom, watching images slowly appear. Since then, I’ve been drawn to quiet, meaningful moments rooted in connection and home. As a mother of three and a film photographer, I approach each story with care, seeking what’s honest and lasting.
Here on the blog, you’ll find recent sessions, tips, and reflections—whether you’re a fellow creative, a brand, or a mother wanting to capture this season. I hope it leaves you inspired and more in love with your own story.
