Do you have a new baby or are pregnant? You are probably wondering when is the Best Time for Newborn Photos. As a Montreal newborn photographer with 6+ years experience, I'll let you know my thoughts.
Best Time for Newborn Photos
I do not pose or prop babies. Why is this important? Newborn photographers who pose or prop babies require the session to be within the first 14 days of life. This is because babies during this time are their sleepiest and can be easily posed. Many parents think this rule applies to all newborn photography but it just isn't true.
I always say to wait until Mom feels ready. This is why:
- Mom is included in the photos. Yes, I include the entire family in my photos. If you were not feeling well during the shoot or do not want to be there, those thoughts will likely come up every time you view the photos.
- You are never going to feel at your best during the first few weeks (few years?) of having a child, but if you are in physical pain you will likely not want to be in many photos.
- I want this to be an enjoyable experience. I want you to enjoy your baby and just breathe them in. Having a newborn is so hectic and I want my time to be a little pause.
Is it better to do the photos sooner or later?
So again, I would say it depends on how you feel. Beyond that, I do find babies are sleepier in the first two weeks. If we follow the crying curve, between 6-8 weeks is the peak of the crying. I don't recommend you do your session during this time. Having said that I've photographed babies who have been fine during this time.
If it were up to me I'd do sessions at newborn, 3 months, 6 months and a year. Babies change so much during that first year (first weeks even) and there is so much to capture!
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