Wondering when is the best time to take newborn photos?

(Hint: It’s Not About the Perfect Moment)

If you’re a new mom Googling “when is the best time to take newborn photos,” you’re not alone. Between sleepless nights, mastering the swaddle, and figuring out your breast pump, a photo session might feel like one more overwhelming task. Maybe you’re even thinking, I’ll wait until I lose the baby weight. I get it because I was there.

I was super fit for most of my adult life, and I stayed active throughout my pregnancy, working out right up until I went into labor at 40 weeks. I was that mom squatting and hitting deadlift PRs at the gym. But after giving birth, I looked at my postpartum body for the first time and thought, What is this? The soft, squishy belly and the extra layers. What is this? Where did this come from?

I almost didn’t want to take newborn photos with my baby because I thought I wouldn’t look “post-worthy.” I longed to capture those sweet moments with my baby, but I also wanted to hide myself until I had my pre-pregnancy body back.

Looking back now, what I really needed after giving birth someone to gently guide me through the process was a photographer who would say, “I understand how you’re feeling. This session will be laidback, and we’ll capture beautiful, honest moments of you and your growing family. I promise you’ll look back and cherish these.” Someone who’d suggest what to wear (a flowy, stretchy dress or even your favorite pajama pants and a white tee, which is totally fine and on-trend), and help you pose in a way that feels natural, not forced.

When Is the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos?

(Hint: It’s Right Now)

Whether your baby is 5 days or 3 months old, you can absolutely rock your postpartum body with grace and beauty. A good photographer won’t be focused on what you’re wearing or how your belly looks, because they’ll focus on your connection, your love, and the small, everyday magic that makes this season unforgettable. Because that’s what you’ll want to remember.

Posed vs. Lifestyle Newborn Photos

When deciding when is the best time to take newborn photos, it’s important to choose a photography style that speaks to you. This choice actually plays a role in determining the ideal timing.

For posed newborn photography, think sleepy babies in swaddles and sweet props, the best age is typically within the first two weeks after birth. That’s when babies are usually the sleepiest and easiest to gently position.

However, if you’re more into capturing real, everyday moments (hello lifestyle photography lovers!), you’ve got more wiggle room. Lifestyle newborn sessions are relaxed and baby-led, focusing on connection, cuddles, and life at home. These can be beautifully done anytime within the first three months, whether your baby is snoozing, stretching, or wide-eyed and curious.

---

5–15 Days Old: The Sweet Spot for Sleepy, Curled-Up Poses

For the mamas who want to capture their baby at their tiniest

If you’re hoping to freeze time and remember just how small your baby was in those first few days, this is your golden window. Most newborn photographers aim to schedule sessions between 5 and 15 days after birth when babies are still oh-so-sleepy and naturally curl up like they’re still in the womb. This is when you’ll catch that precious newborn scrunch, the way their tiny legs tuck in, just like they did inside you.

This stage is perfect for those soft, snuggly photos where your baby looks like a peaceful little bundle of love. They’re also more flexible during this time, which makes gentle posing easier and more comfortable.

Even better? With baby-led posing, your little one sets the pace. The baby is in charge. We can easily take breaks for nursing, burping, changing, or cuddles, whatever your baby needs. Hungry? We feed. Not into the swaddle? We skip it. If baby wants to be held the whole time, that’s okay too. The goal is to keep things calm, cozy, and true to who your baby is, right from the start.

---

Beyond 15 Days: Still The Best Time to Take Newborn Photos

For the mamas hoping to capture both sleepy and bright-eyed expressions

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Wait… my baby’s already three weeks old,” take a deep breath—you haven’t missed a thing. Every stage of babyhood is photo-worthy. As a lifestyle newborn photographer, I love capturing babies up to 3 months old during that magical fourth trimester.

After those super-sleepy early days, the vibe naturally shifts. Older newborns tend to be more alert, which means we get sweet eye contact, curious little expressions, stretches, and maybe even a smirk. You’ll still get those tender, snuggly moments, just with a bit more personality shining through. It’s not too late, it’s just a different (and equally beautiful) kind of session.

---

---

Lifestyle Sessions = Flexibility & Fun

No strict timelines here

As a lifestyle Bay Area newborn photographer, my sessions don’t require your baby to be in a certain mood or perfectly posed. Instead of props and precision, I focus on capturing your connection and bond with your baby in your arms, in your home, and in your world.

Plus, your toddler (and dog!) are always welcome. We embrace the beautiful chaos because it’s all part of capturing the fleeting, meaningful moments that define these early months.

Need some baby nursery or outfit ideas? Head to Levtex Home for nursery style inspiration or browse Hanna Andersson for cozy babywear options that photograph beautifully.

---

So, When Is the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos?

Here’s the truth: the best time is whatever works for you and your family. I know those newborn days of bringing home a baby are filled with big emotions, sleepless nights, and endless adjustments and planning a photo session can feel like just one more thing on the list.

Newborn photos don’t have to happen in a narrow window to be meaningful. Whether your baby is 7 days or 7 weeks old, we’ll work with your family’s schedule.

So, take a breath, mama. You didn’t miss your newborn baby photo window. You’re doing amazing. Let’s freeze this moment before it becomes a blur. If you’re in the San Francisco Peninsula or Bay Area, I’d love to help you capture your family’s story, right from the start.

Ready to get inspired? Browse my portfolio to see what’s possible for your session.

If you love reading this blog, you will also love:

• Bay Area Newborn Photographer for New Parents
• Newborn Lifestyle Photography: Sweetest Moments at Home
• Best Time for Maternity Photos