If you have found yourself at this blog post, then chances are you are expecting a new little addition to your family very soon! Congratulations! As a professional Langley Newborn Photographer that has captured dozens of newborn babies and their families each year, I can tell you the best timeline when it comes to booking your newborn photo session. 

when should i inquire with a newborn photographer?

Once you find out you are pregnant, there is so much information coming at you all at once! It can be so overwhelming to get everything organized in those first few months of pregnancy. Lucky for you, if you are booking a lifestyle newborn photographer, you won’t need to add that to your to do list in your first trimester. I typically suggest that you reach out to book your newborn session when you are about 5-6 months pregnant. This ensures that you can get your preferred date before your photographer books up for the month that you are due! 

how old should my baby be when we have our session with a newborn photographer?

When you think of a newborn, you think of these little sleepy babies that are happy to just go along with whatever you are doing. In my expierence the perfect time for taking newborn photos is when baby is between 2-4 weeks old, but staying as close to 2 weeks as possible. It is right in the stage where after they have a feed they are fast asleep and ok if we move around to different positions and different rooms, and are usually ok if we put them down for a few minutes! 

With all that being said, the newborn stage does technically last until baby is 3 months old. So if having someone in your home to take photos when you are only 2 weeks postpartum feels like a lot, you don’t have to do it! Your photos will just be with your more alert little babe! I have had many clients go this route and their photos are just as beautiful as the family that chooses to do their newborn photos right away. 

what if i also want to book maternity photography?

Maternity photos are always such a special session, especially if it is your first baby! If you are looking to book a maternity photographer, I would recommend starting to inquire when you are about 3 months pregnant. I personally book maternity photos when mom is between 34-36 weeks pregnant. This way she has a cute bump that is very visible, but. not at super uncomfortable point in pregnancy that can happen in those last 2-4 weeks. Just like with newborn photos the earlier you reach out the better! This will help ensure that can book your preferred date and time! It’s also good to consider the timing for maternity photos, especially if you live in the Fraser Valley! Rainy season goes on for a long time, so sometimes it’s worth it to book your maternity photos just a few weeks earlier or later than usual to accommodate the weather!

You can find my blog listing the Best Maternity Photoshoot Dresses for 2024 here!

a few other things on newborn photography

All of these timeline suggestions are what I find works best for newborn photography, they are just that; suggestions! All parents and every family is so different, and it is important to schedule things on your timeline. If this is your 2nd or 3rd baby and you know that you will be out of commission until week 5, then don’t stress! Schedule your photos for when you think you will feel up for it! As a in home newborn photographer, I always keep my newborn sessions schedules very flexible. Meaning that if you have baby and realize you need more time before you’re ready for photos, I am very easy going about rescheduling.

final thoughts

Planning your in-home newborn photos is such an exciting time! Hopefully, this blog will help guide you through the process of planning and booking your newborn photos. when is the best time to reach out to your newborn photographer? If you are looking to book a Langley newborn photographer, I am your girl! If you’d like to inquire, you can do so here. I can’t wait to hear from you!

My name is Kory and I am a lifestyle newborn photographer based in the Fraser Valley in British Columbia! I live there with my husband and our adorable 3 year old son, Oliver.