Is there an optimal time when you should schedule your newborn photos? The answer is yes!
As a new parent, you are undoubtedly overwhelmed with love and excitement for your newborn. With all the milestones that your baby will hit, newborn photography is one of the most important to capture. In fact, it’s easiest to have your shoot booked for your newborn photos all organised by the start of your third trimester!
But have you ever wondered what is the best age for newborn photos? Is there an optimal time when you should schedule a photo shoot? The answer is yes!
In this blog post, we will discuss the optimal age for newborn photos, which is typically within the first 14 days after birth. We’ll explain why this age is ideal for capturing those precious moments and how it can affect the quality of the photos. We’ll also provide tips for parents on how to prepare for their newborn’s photo shoot and common mistakes to avoid.
At Kristy’s Studio, we understand the importance of capturing these early moments and have the experience and expertise to ensure that your photos are nothing short of perfection. So, let’s dive in and learn more about why the optimal age for newborn photos is so important.
What is newborn photography?
Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exciting time, filled with love, joy, and a lot of sleepless nights. As your little one grows and changes each day, it’s important to capture those precious moments before they slip away. That’s where newborn photography comes in.
Newborn photography is a specialized genre that captures the beauty, innocence, and vulnerability of your baby in their first few weeks of life. These early moments are fleeting, and before you know it, your little one will be crawling, walking, and exploring the world around them.
That’s why it’s essential to capture these moments while you can. A skilled newborn photographer can create beautiful, timeless images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. From those tiny toes to the way your baby snuggles into your chest, every detail is worth remembering.
The first few weeks of a baby’s life are full of new experiences and rapid changes. It’s during this time that you’ll see your baby grow and develop so quickly. Capturing these moments can be a wonderful way to cherish and remember them forever.
What is the optimal age for newborn photos?
The optimal age for newborn photos can vary depending on the photographer and the style of photography you’re looking for. Generally speaking, most photographers recommend scheduling a session within the first two weeks of your baby’s life. During this time, your baby is still very sleepy and can easily be posed into those adorable curled-up positions. Plus, they haven’t yet developed any baby acne or other skin issues that can sometimes occur later on.
But don’t worry if you’ve missed the two-week mark! There are still plenty of opportunities to capture beautiful moments with your newborn. In fact, some photographers even recommend waiting until your baby is a little older to capture their developing personality and character.
Why is this the best age for newborn photos?
Firstly, newborns are usually very sleepy during this time, which makes them easier to pose and work with. They are also more likely to be comfortable in positions that mimic their time in the womb, such as being curled up or with their hands near their face.
Additionally, babies at this age have not yet developed baby acne or other skin conditions that can sometimes arise later on. They also have soft, plump skin and little to no hair, which can make for some incredibly beautiful and timeless photos.
Every baby is different and not every baby will go into every pose. Babies with a very strong startle reflex will likely get through less poses than babies who are more “chill”. The older the baby generally the stronger the startle reflex. From the moment Kristy is handling your newborn she is learning about them. Which way do they like their head? Are they highly stimulated by their hands?
She then works with them to ensure they are comfortable throughout the session.
Another reason why this age is ideal is that it allows parents to capture those first precious moments when their baby is still so small and new. Time flies by so quickly and before you know it, your little one will have grown and changed so much. By capturing these early moments, you can create a lasting record of this special time that you will cherish for years to come.
Tips for preparation!
Schedule the photo shoot within the first two weeks after birth: As we mentioned earlier, the ideal age for newborn photos is within the first two weeks. So make sure to schedule the shoot during this period.
Choose the right time of day: Newborns tend to sleep a lot during the day, so it’s best to schedule the shoot when they are most likely to be sleepy, such as in the morning or after feeding.
Dress the baby in comfortable clothing: Make sure to dress your baby in comfortable, soft clothing that won’t irritate their sensitive skin. Avoid clothing with large logos or patterns, as they can be distracting in the photos.
Keep the room warm: Newborns are used to being in a warm, cozy environment, so make sure the room is heated to a comfortable temperature.
Have feeding supplies on hand: Be sure to have all the necessary feeding supplies on hand, including bottles, formula, and breastfeeding equipment.
Be patient and flexible: Newborns can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be patient and flexible during the shoot. If your baby needs to take a break or feed, that’s okay. The photographer will work around your baby’s needs to ensure the best possible photos.
Consider props and personal touches: Think about incorporating props or personal touches into the shoot, such as a special blanket or a family heirloom. This can add a unique and sentimental touch to the photos.
Popular Newborn Photography Poses
The Classic Pose: This is t where the baby is lying on his or her back with hands and legs up in the air.
The Wrapped Pose: In this pose, the newborn is wrapped up tightly in a blanket, which makes him or her feel secure and comfortable.
The Side-Lying Pose: This pose is perfect for capturing the details of your newborn’s face and features.
The Froggy Pose: This pose is a bit tricky, but when done correctly, it can be an adorable photo. The newborn is positioned to look like a frog.
The Chin on Hands Pose: In this pose, the newborn is lying on his or her stomach with the chin resting on the hands
The Tushy Up Pose: This pose is perfect for capturing the details of your newborn’s little tushy.
The Potato Sack Pose: This pose is when the baby is wrapped up tightly in a swaddle, and it looks like a little potato sack.
The Parent Poses: Including parents in the newborn photo shoot is a great way to capture the love and bond between them and the baby.
The Prop Poses: Props like baskets, buckets, and hats can add a unique touch to the newborn photos.
The Sibling Poses: If you have older siblings, including them in the photo shoot can be a great way to capture the love and bond between siblings.
Capturing those precious moments of your newborn is an incredibly special experience. That’s why it’s important to choose a professional and experienced newborn photographer who can ensure that your photos are of the highest quality.
A professional newborn photographer has spent years honing their craft and understands the technical aspects of photography, including lighting, composition, and posing. They also have experience working with newborns and know how to create a comfortable and safe environment for them during the shoot.
Moreover, an experienced photographer has a creative vision that they can bring to your photos, ensuring that each shot is unique and beautiful. They can help you choose the perfect poses, props, and backgrounds that suit your style and preferences.
By understanding the optimal age for newborn photography and following some tips for preparing for the photo shoot, you can ensure the best possible results. Remember to choose an experienced and professional photographer who can bring their creativity and expertise to your shoot.
Kristy is a highly experienced and trained newborn photographer with over a decade of experience in the industry. She has trained extensively in the art of newborn photography and has honed her skills to a level of expertise. Kristy understands that capturing those precious moments in a newborn’s life is a special and intimate process, and she approaches each shoot with care and attention to detail. She is dedicated to providing her clients with a comfortable and safe environment, ensuring that their little ones are handled with the utmost care.
Kristy’s expertise and passion for newborn photography have made her a sought-after professional in the field, and her clients trust her to deliver stunning, high-quality images that they will cherish for a lifetime.
Contact us now to book your session and let’s capture those special moments together!
