When Should You Schedule Your Baby’s First Photo Session? From Newborns to 12 months, Here’s What You Should Know Before You Book.
Read below to learn about the different ages for your baby’s first photo session and when you should book.
Don’t worry! If you think I'm going to say “don't wait until it's too late” or “you must book your photo session by x weeks,” you’re mistaken. While your baby’s age is certainly something to consider, I’m here to tell you that the best time to book your baby’s first photo session is when you’re ready!
Chances are you’ve just had a baby or are about to have one. You might be recovering from delivery, too sleep-deprived to think or have so much going on in your life that the last thing you need is to put more pressure on yourself. Whether you want to book a session before your baby is born or wait for them to be at least a few weeks old, there isn't necessarily a better time than the other.
To make the decision process a little easier and to give you some peace of mind, keep scrolling for a list of baby ages, the pros and cons of each one, and when you should book. And if you want to capture multiple stages in your baby’s first year, I offer a special First Year Package!
The First 10 days
Pros: They're teeny tiny! This is the smallest your child will be in their entire life and it might be important for you to capture them this way.
Cons: This can be difficult to schedule if there are any complications with the birth.
When to book: Book your session at least 2 months in advance. Plan the session for about 1 week after your due date. I’ll have several days in my schedule blocked off for you, and I’ll be flexible in case your baby arrives earlier or later than expected.
What happens after 10 days? For the next several weeks your baby will go through some changes, which may include digestive issues, baby acne, and skin flaking. It’s definitely still possible to have a session during this time, just something to consider.
6-week Milestone
Pros: Your baby is is still tiny, but more alert and possibly starting to smile. The two of you are starting to get into a routine and you might be starting to feel better after giving birth.
Cons: This can be the peak time for colic and lots of fussiness at night.
When to book: Schedule with me just after your baby is born.
3 to 6 Months
Pros: Lots of smiles and a deeper connection between the baby and parent that is very fun to capture! Your baby is also much stronger and less wriggly, but still fairly small.
Cons: Your baby is very alert and aware of their surroundings, so it’s important not to overstimulate them. Sometimes the baby is very fixated on the camera - I’ve had many serious stares from babies!
When to book: 1 month in advance if you’re flexible.
7 to 9 Months
Pros: I’ll capture lots of baby playtime! Your baby is much stronger and can support themselves better, grasp things, and will have so much fun with you!
Cons: Stranger danger, and possibly starting to teethe.
When to book: 1 month in advance if you’re flexible.
10 to 12 Months
Pros: We’ll capture your baby doing and trying many new things, like eating solid foods, learning to walk, dancing to music, pointing at things, and generally playing and interacting more.
Cons: Your baby is much bigger now and may be having separation anxiety or sleep issues.
When to book: 1 month in advance if you’re flexible.