3 Reasons Why the So-Called “Window” for Newborn Photos Is Overrated

Many newborn photographers will insist that you need to do newborn photos in the first two weeks after your baby is born. But this simply isn’t true in my experience as a professional newborn photographer. Here are 3 reasons why you may want to consider SKIPPING the so-called two-week newborn window.

1. Those bright eyes, exploring their world with wonder. This is the most adorable detail that doesn’t get captured in many newborn photoshoots. In those first two weeks after birth, babies sleep very deeply, so many newborn photographers use this window to place babies in specific poses. And while a sleeping baby makes for an adorable picture, don’t get me wrong, a full gallery of newborn photos without seeing the baby’s eyes feels incomplete to me. Most of the families who hire me to take their newborn photos end up taking my recommendation and scheduling their session when the baby is around 2-4 weeks old. This extra week or two makes such a huge difference in how bright-eyed and expressive your baby will be.
2. Sweet little moments of connection with your baby. The way she grabs onto your finger with her tiny hand. How he nuzzles into your chest with a big sigh after a good feeding and a burp. The full on crying face in one shot followed by a sweet little gassy smile in the next shot. My favorite newborn photos are created when babies are snuggled in the arms and hearts of their loved ones, and this absolutely does not stop when the baby turns two weeks old. If anything, these connections become stronger as the baby’s ability to focus on mommy and daddy’s faces develops. There is absolutely nothing more magical than when your baby sees you and stares at you with wonder.
3. Recovering after labor and delivery takes time. Giving birth to a baby is one of the most physically and emotionally demanding experiences, and it even leads to surgery for some moms. I think that’s why many of the families I work with breathe a huge sigh of relief when I recommend scheduling their newborn photos for around 2-4 weeks old. Having that time to settle in at home and find a new family rhythm can make a world of difference in how much new parents are able to soak in and enjoy their newborn photo experience.

Newborn photos shouldn’t be a chore with a deadline…they should be a celebration of all the love and joy you have in your hearts. There is never a wrong time to create beautiful memories with your baby, so if your baby is older than two weeks you haven’t missed “the window.” It’s only just the beginning of so many beautiful memories you’ll make with your new little love.

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