When Should I Hire A Newborn Photographer?
If you’re expecting a baby, (huge congratulations by the way!) you might be finding yourself wondering when is the best time is to book a newborn photographer? The short answer is right around your second trimester, 12-20 weeks into your pregnancy! Here’s why booking early is key, plus some important factors to consider when choosing the right photographer for your baby’s first heirloom portraits.
Keep in mind that most newborn photographers will reserve your session based on your estimated due date, but wait until after your baby arrives to set the actual session date. This flexibility ensures there's room in their schedule if your little one arrives early or late. It also gives mama time to settle in and decide when she might feel ready for the session, making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Booking early—ideally during your second trimester—ensures you’ll have a reserved spot on your photographer’s calendar and allows time to plan the perfect session that fits your style and vision.
This is Samuel, from a recent session where I was able to get some wide awake images! This little guy was born around 32 weeks and so was in the NICU for a bit before he got to come see me. Some of my favorite images are from his session!
1. Why Timing Matters: Scheduling Your Newborn Session Early
Newborn photography sessions are typically scheduled within the first 7–14 days after birth—when babies are still extra sleepy and naturally curled up, perfect for those sweet, cozy poses. Booking in advance guarantees you a spot during this ideal window, rather than trying to find availability after your baby arrives. If we wait too long, we run the risk of baby being awake your entire session, and less flexibility for those darling poses we know you will want! Because of this limited timeframe, photographers who specialize in newborns often book up weeks (sometimes months!) in advance.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to turn away last-minute inquiries simply because my calendar was already full. It’s truly the hardest part of my job—I wish I could say yes to everyone, but as a one-woman business, my availability is limited.
This beautiful little girl was a last minute booking, and was almost a month old by the time we got her in. Thankfully we did get some sleepy images, but she was awake for a good portion of her session.
2. Newborn Photographers Fill Up Quickly
Experienced newborn photographers often have learned the hard way that they need to limit the number of sessions they take each month to ensure they provide the best experience for every client.
Since baby’s obviously arrive on their own schedule, most photographers will wait until after baby actually arrives to schedule the date of your session. If you wait too long to book, you might find your favorite photographer is already booked, especially during peak times like summer/fall and scrambling last minute to find someone. Some newborn photographers, like myself, also offer Family Photography from June to 0ctober to take advantage of Oregon’s gorgeous weather. This means that there will be less openings for newborn sessions during those months.
This week old baby boy was the third newborn I have photographed for this family! I absolutely love my return clients, and this image is one of my favorites! So glad they choose it for their final gallery.
3. Booking Ahead Means Stress-Free Planning
Booking at 12-20 weeks gives us both time to discuss details like styling, props, and whether you’d like sibling or family photos included. This also allows you to decide if you would like to do Maternity Photos, which are so special to have.
You will then need to fill out a questionnaire that I send, and read through a prep guide which requires some time. Deciding what colors you would like to include, which backdrop, or certain prop you might want all takes time. Booking early will also give me time to plan out any special requests you might have. For example, including a family heirloom or an item of sentimental value.
This image was a repeat of an image we had done for this family first baby! I love that I was able to recreate this image for them to print up and put side by side in their home.
4. Enjoy Peace of Mind Ahead of Baby’s Arrival
Pregnancy is full of to-dos, and your list will feel unending. Not to mention that especially towards the end of pregnancy, you will be so exhausted. Take it from me, the last thing you will want is added stress late in your third trimester. So securing your favorite newborn photographer early lets you relax, knowing this special moment is already planned and in the hands of a trusted professional. Not to mention that you do not need to buy any props or outfit for baby as we take care of all of that for you! See all your options HERE while you read about me and my studio!
Can you imagine passing up on an image of your darling baby like this? Not happening :) So plan for the largest Collection your photographer offers.
5. Time to budget for your memories
Hiring an experienced newborn photographer is an investment—and for good reason. Great photographers don’t just pick up a camera and start shooting; they’ve spent years refining their craft through education, hands-on experience, and countless hours of practice. They've also carefully calculated the true cost of running a sustainable business—everything from high-end equipment and studio expenses to insurance, safety training, and ongoing education. It all adds up quickly. Newborn Photography is the most expensive genre of photography one can do.
Newborn photography, in particular, requires a unique blend of artistic skill and baby-handling expertise. It’s a highly specialized field, and those who do it well have poured time, energy, heart, and significant financial resources into offering a high-quality experience.
While newborn photography is a luxury service rather than a necessity, it’s one that captures a once-in-a-lifetime moment. You can expect a seasoned professional with a strong reputation, safety training, and a fully legal and insured business to price their work to reflect the value, care, and experience they bring to every session.
Not to mention, it will be extremely hard to choose your images of your beautiful baby when you see your proofing gallery! :) So you will want to budget for the highest package in advance.
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session? If you're in the Salem, Oregon area and looking for a photographer who specializes in posed newborn portraits, macro shots of baby details, and milestone sessions, I’d love to chat! My calendar fills up quickly, so reach out today to reserve your due date in advance.
