Why 12 to 21 Days Is the Perfect Time for Newborn Photos

When you’re planning a newborn photoshoot, timing really does make a difference.
The best time to capture those beautifully curled-up, sleepy baby images is when your little one is between 12 and 21 days old.

Here’s why.

Sleepy, Snuggly Babies

At around 12 to 21 days old, most newborns are still in that lovely, sleepy stage.
They’re much more likely to snooze peacefully while I gently pose and wrap them.

Sleepy babies make it possible to create those timeless images where they look soft, relaxed, and completely content.
It’s a stage that doesn’t last long — and it’s truly special to capture it while it’s here.

As babies get a little older, they naturally become more alert and start to stretch out more.
That can make some of the classic newborn poses a little trickier to achieve.

Still Tiny and Curled

During those first few weeks, your baby still has that beautiful newborn curl.
You’ll notice how they tuck their little legs in and keep their hands close to their face.

After about three weeks, they start stretching out and opening up.
Their muscles get stronger, and they lose a little bit of that soft, curled-up look.

Photographing them between 12 and 21 days gives me the best chance to capture all those gorgeous, tiny, curled-up details before they start changing.

A Little Recovery Time for You and Baby

Choosing the 12 to 21 day window also gives you a bit of breathing space.
The early days after birth can be overwhelming — both physically and emotionally.

Giving yourself a couple of weeks means you and your baby can settle in at home, have a few slow days together, and recover at your own pace.
It also helps if you’ve had a longer hospital stay or if your little one needed a bit of extra care after birth.

There’s never any pressure from me — I will always work around you.
But aiming for that second and third week usually gives the perfect balance between capturing the newborn stage and giving you a little time to breathe.

What If My Baby Is Older?

If your baby is already a little older, please don’t worry.
Every baby is different, and beautiful photos can be taken at any age.

Some babies just need a little more time to settle.
Others might prefer being wrapped or photographed while they're awake, and that can create some truly lovely, natural images.

Whatever your baby needs, I’ll take my time and work with them gently.

When to Book Your Newborn Session

The best time to book your newborn session is before your baby is born — ideally after your 20-week scan.
I will pencil you in based on your due date, and we can confirm the exact date once your little one arrives.

If your baby has already arrived and you’re just thinking about booking now, that's absolutely fine too.
Just get in touch as soon as you can, and I’ll do my best to fit you in.

Capturing these first few weeks is so special.
It’s a tiny window of time that passes in the blink of an eye, but you’ll have the memories to keep forever.

Would you love some beautiful newborn photos?

My studio is warm, cosy, and completely baby-led.
You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment while I gently capture your little one’s first days.
If you’d like to find out more or check my availability, just send me a message [insert your contact link]. I’d love to hear from you.

P.S. If your baby has already arrived, don’t worry — just get in touch and I’ll do my best to fit you in.