One of the most common questions I get from expecting parents is:
"When should we schedule our newborn photos?"
The short answer? Before your baby is born.
The longer answer depends on what kind of images you love, how flexible you want your schedule to be, and whether you want to guarantee a spot on your photographer's calendar.
If you're expecting, here's everything you need to know.
The Best Time to Book Your Newborn Session
The ideal time to reserve your newborn session is during your second trimester or early third trimester (around 20–32 weeks pregnant).
Why so early?
Newborn photographers only take a limited number of due dates each month. Babies almost never arrive exactly on schedule, so instead of booking a specific date, we reserve your due date and leave room in the calendar for when your little one decides to make their arrival.
Waiting until after your baby is born can mean limited availability. especially during busy seasons.
When Are Newborn Photos Actually Taken?
The classic sleepy, curled-up newborn portraits are typically photographed within the first 5–14 days after birth.
During those first two weeks, babies tend to:
Sleep more deeply
Naturally curl into womb-like poses
Be more comfortable while wrapped
Settle more easily between poses
This is the stage most people picture when they think of professional newborn photography.
That said…
Is It Too Late After Two Weeks?
Absolutely not.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you've "missed your chance."
Beautiful newborn portraits can be created well beyond the first two weeks.
Older newborns may:
Spend more time awake
Make eye contact
Stretch out instead of curling up
Show more personality
These sessions often feel just as meaningful because they capture your baby's first expressions and the way they naturally interact with you.
Your story doesn't have an expiration date.
What If My Baby Comes Early or Late?
Don't worry—that's exactly why you book using your due date, not your delivery date.
Once your baby arrives, simply reach out within the first couple of days, and we'll choose the best session date based on when they were born.
Whether your little one arrives two weeks early or ten days late, your photographer plans for that flexibility.
What Happens During a Newborn Session?
A professional newborn experience should feel calm—not rushed.
At December Rose Photography, every session is designed to be relaxed so you can simply enjoy these first days together.
Your session includes time for:
Feeding breaks
Diaper changes
Cuddles and comforting
Parent and sibling portraits
Individual baby portraits
Beautiful heirloom artwork planning
There is never any pressure if your baby needs extra time.
They're the boss that day.
Should We Include Parents and Siblings?
Yes. Always.
Years from now, your baby won't care what brand of swaddle they wore.
They'll care about seeing you
Your hands holding them.
The way your partner looked at them.
The tiny family you were becoming.
These images often become the most treasured photographs from the entire session.
What Should We Wear?
The most timeless newborn portraits begin with simple clothing.
Soft neutrals, creams, whites, oatmeal, light browns, and muted earth tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus where it belongs—on your connection.
Avoid bold logos, busy patterns, and neon colors that can distract from the emotion in the images.
Many full-service photographers (including December Rose Photography) offer a curated client wardrobe to make planning even easier.
Don't Wait Until Baby Is Here
Those first days pass faster than anyone warns you.
The tiny fingers.
The flaky newborn skin.
The sleepy stretches.
The way they fit perfectly against your chest.
These moments change almost overnight.
Booking your newborn session before your baby arrives means one less thing to think about after delivery—and ensures these fleeting memories are preserved forever.
Looking for a Newborn Photographer in Indiana?
If you're expecting and searching for a Lafayette, Indiana newborn photographer I'd love to help you create photographs that feel just as meaningful decades from now as they do today.
At December Rose Photography, I specialize in clean, minimal, timeless imagery that is deeply emotional and connection-focused. Every session is designed to be a calm, full-service experience—from planning your session to creating beautiful artwork for your home.
If you're due in the coming months, now is the perfect time to reserve your due date. I'd love to celebrate this season with your family.
