When Should You Book Your Newborn Photoshoot?
/If you've recently found out you're expecting, congratulations!
Between scans, buying tiny baby clothes, decorating the nursery and preparing for your little one's arrival, booking a newborn photoshoot probably isn't at the top of your to-do list.
In fact, one of the questions I'm asked most often is:
"Should we wait until the baby's born before booking our newborn photoshoot?"
The answer is actually no and here's why.
The Best Time to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot
The ideal time to book your newborn session is during your pregnancy, usually after your 20-week scan.
At this stage, you'll hopefully be feeling more confident, you've shared your exciting news with family and friends, and it's the perfect time to start planning those special first memories.
The good news is that you don't need to know exactly when your baby will arrive.
Instead of booking a fixed session date, I simply reserve space in my diary around your due date.
But Babies Never Arrive on Time!
If there's one thing I've learnt after photographing newborns for more than ten years, it's that babies like to make their own plans!
Some arrive weeks early.
Others keep everyone waiting.
That's completely expected.
Once your little one has arrived, simply get in touch within the first couple of days and we'll arrange the best date for your session together.
This flexible approach means you don't have to worry about trying to predict your baby's birthday months in advance.
Why I Limit the Number of Newborn Sessions Each Month
Unlike other types of photography sessions, newborn photography can't simply be squeezed into the diary.
Because babies arrive when they're ready, I only accept a limited number of due dates each month.
This gives me the flexibility to move sessions if babies arrive earlier or later than expected, while ensuring every family receives the calm, relaxed experience they deserve.
It also means I can dedicate plenty of time to each session without ever rushing your baby.
When Does the Photoshoot Actually Take Place?
Although every baby is different, newborn sessions are usually photographed within the first 5–21 days after birth.
This is often when babies are naturally sleepier, curl up comfortably and are happiest being gently posed and wrapped.
However, if your baby is older than this, please don't panic.
Beautiful photographs can still be created, and every baby deserves to have their story captured, whatever their age.
What Happens After I Book?
Once you've booked your newborn session, you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.
Over the coming weeks, I'll send you everything you need to prepare, including helpful information about what to bring, what to expect and how to make the most of your session.
When your baby arrives, all you need to do is let me know, and we'll confirm your session date together.
It's designed to be as simple and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most your growing family.
What If I've Already Had My Baby?
Don't worry you haven't necessarily missed your opportunity.
If your baby has already arrived, it's always worth getting in touch.
While I can't guarantee availability, I'll always do my very best to accommodate last-minute enquiries whenever possible.
And if your little one has already outgrown the newborn stage, my My Baby's First Photoshoot sessions are a wonderful way to capture the next exciting chapter of their first year.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming, but booking your newborn photoshoot doesn't have to be.
By reserving your due date during pregnancy, you'll have one less thing to think about once your little one arrives, knowing your baby's first professional photographs are already planned.
If you're expecting and would like to find out more about my relaxed, baby-led newborn sessions, I'd love to hear from you.
Together, we'll create beautiful memories you'll treasure for a lifetime.
Looking for a newborn photographer in Bedfordshire?
Phoebe Berridge Photography specialises in calm, baby-led newborn photography from a purpose-built studio in Ickwell, Bedfordshire. Families travel from Biggleswade, Sandy, Bedford, Hitchin, St Neots, Huntingdon, Letchworth, Baldock and across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire to capture their baby's precious first days in a safe, relaxed environment.
