If you’re expecting a baby, you’ve probably already realized how quickly the to do list grows. Between all the appointments, preparing the nursery (knowing you won’t use it for the first few months 😅), and simply trying to rest, it’s easy to wonder when you’re supposed to book things like newborn photos! As a lifestyle newborn photographer in Abbotsford, one of the most common questions I hear is:
“When should we reach out to book our newborn photos?” The good news? There is a timeline that I suggest, but there’s also flexibility, especially with lifestyle newborn photography. Let’s walk through exactly when to book, why timing matters, and what to do if your baby has already arrived! (This happens all the time!)

The Short Answer: Book Your Newborn Photographer During Your Second Trimester

The ideal time to book a newborn photographer in Abbotsford is early in your second trimester, typically around 20 weeks. At this stage, most parents feel settled into their pregnancy and are ready to start planning ahead without the physical discomfort and mental overload that can come later in the third trimester. Booking early helps ensure availability around your due date while still leaving plenty of flexibility once your baby arrives!

Why Booking a Newborn Photographer Early Matters

Limited Availability

Newborn photography requires flexibility, which means photographers can only take on a limited number of sessions each month. Sessions are booked around due dates, with room left open for babies who arrive early or late.

Booking early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred photographer and style, especially if you’re drawn to relaxed, in home newborn photography!

Peace of Mind Later in Pregnancy

The third trimester can feel like a blur! Having your newborn photos already booked is one less decision to make when energy is low and emotions are high.

More Time to Plan a Relaxed Session

Booking in advance allows time to:

• Talk through what a lifestyle newborn session looks like
• Receive gentle guidance on what to wear
• Ask questions without feeling rushed

This helps create a calm, meaningful experience rather than a last minute scramble.

What If I Missed Booking Early?

If you didn’t book during your second trimester, you’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance! While availability may be more limited, it’s always worth reaching out, even if your baby has already arrived. Depending on the month and schedule, there may still be room for last minute newborn sessions. Lifestyle newborn photography is especially flexible, which can make late bookings more possible than traditional posed studio sessions! I personally always have last minute spots available since I know things can be crazy during pregnancy and all of a sudden your baby is here and you want to capture those precious first moments!

How Lifestyle Newborn Photography Changes the Timing Rules

One of the biggest benefits of lifestyle newborn photography is flexibility. Unlike posed studio sessions that often need to happen within the first 7–10 days, lifestyle sessions:

• Don’t require your baby to be deeply asleep
• Focus on connection, not perfection
• Can take place anytime within the first 2–6 weeks

This approach is ideal for parents who want a slower, more natural experience, especially while recovering from birth or adjusting to life with multiple children.

When Will My Newborn Session Actually Take Place?

When you book, your session is reserved based on your due date, not a specific day. Once your baby arrives, you simply get in touch and we rearrange your session to a time that feels right for your family, or keep your original date if it still works! Sessions are designed to move at your baby’s pace, with time for feeding, cuddling, and breaks. There’s no pressure to perform or pose, just space to be present and enjoy those new baby snuggles while I capture every moment!

Abbotsford Newborn Photography for Growing Families

If you’re welcoming a new baby into a family with toddlers, pets, or a busy household, lifestyle newborn photography is a beautiful fit.

These sessions:

• Take place in your home
• Include siblings naturally, without forced poses
• Embrace real moments — mess and all

You don’t need a perfectly styled house or a “well-behaved” toddler. Your life as it is right now is enough. The most precious photos I deliver to my clients are always the ones that are happening during those in between moments.

Ready to Book Your Abbotsford Newborn Photographer?

If you’re currently pregnant, the best time to book your newborn photos is now, even if your due date still feels far away! Booking early ensures availability and allows your session to feel calm, intentional, and stress free. And if your baby has already arrived? Reach out anyway! There is a high chance there is still be space to capture these fleeting early days. Newborn photography isn’t about perfection, it’s about remembering how this season felt.

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When you’re ready, you can inquire about lifestyle newborn photography in Abbotsford and find a session that fits your family and your pace! I can’t wait to chat with you! Inquire about your session here.

Kory is a motherhood and family photographer based out of Abbotsford B.C. She is passionate about capturing genuine family moments that they will cherish forever. She works with families of all types and abilities.