When to Schedule Newborn Photos

I’ve been photographing newborns for over 15 years, and one of the first questions new parents always ask is, “When to schedule newborn photos?”

When Should Newborn Photos be Taken?

The ideal time for newborn photos is between 8 and 21 days old. This is when babies are typically sleepiest and most flexible for those classic, curled-up poses. However, newborn photos can still be taken up to 8 weeks old. As babies get older, they tend to be more alert and less moldable, but that doesn’t mean we can’t capture beautiful images.

With a baby-led approach, we adjust posing based on your baby’s comfort—whether they’re sleepy, wide-eyed, or somewhere in between.

Why Timing Matters for Newborn Photography

I remember wondering when to do newborn photos when my first son was born. Our photographer didn’t give us any guidance, and I had no idea what to expect. All I remember is him crying—and pooping—through the entire session!

When my second son arrived, I delayed our photos because I wanted to lose the baby weight first. We waited until he was one month old. I’ll never forget the look on the photographer’s face when she realized how old he was. She gently explained that those curled-up, sleepy newborn poses typically need to be done much earlier. I had no idea!

Now, with years of experience behind the camera, I’ve learned that while the timing of your newborn session does affect the type of photos we can capture, there’s no “wrong” age. I’ve photographed babies up to 8 weeks old (a few older than that), and each one has a beautiful story to tell.

My job as your newborn photographer is to guide you through the process—so you know what to expect at every stage.

What Makes the Newborn Stage so Special?

Although the days and nights may seem long during the newborn stage, they pass all too quickly. Before you know it, those wrinkles and flakes go away. Your baby will start staying awake longer, smiles will come more frequently, and you’ll find yourself forgetting just how small they once were.

That’s why preserving these moments with newborn photos is so important.

Newborn Photo Poses: What to Expect at Different Ages

Dreamy, curled up poses are some of the most popular newborn photography poses. For these types of portraits, it’s ideal for your baby to be in a deep, restful sleep. Typically younger babies (under 3 weeks) are more flexible and sleep more soundly.

Older babies (around 3–6 weeks) are often more alert and sensitive to touch, so they may wake up when being moved or posed. That doesn’t mean we can’t get beautiful photos—it just means the session may focus more on wrapped poses or awake expressions.

When to Schedule Newborn Photos?

The Ideal Newborn Window

I typically schedule newborn sessions between 8 and 21 days old. This timing gives new parents the important first week at home to recover from birth, adjust to feeding routines, and simply get to know their little one.

If you’re hoping for classic, sleepy poses, this is truly the best time for newborn photos.

Knowing when to schedule newborn photos allows you to plan ahead and feel confident about your session.

Is 3 Weeks Too Old for Newborn Pictures?

Absolutely not! An experienced photographer will be confident photographing babies at any age.

In my 15 years of photographing newborns, I’ve learned that the key to a successful session with an older baby is setting the right expectations.

Even a 10-day-old may stay awake during their session. By 3 or 4 weeks old, babies tend to be more alert and less flexible, which may limit some of those tighter, curled-up poses.

That said, there’s still so much we can do! Wrapped poses work beautifully for older newborns, and we often capture gorgeous wide-eyed shots, stretches, and sweet interactions with parents.

Every baby is unique, and no matter their age, we’ll create a gallery that tells their story just as they are.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Newborn Photographer?

Many of my clients deliver at hospitals like Ascension Saint Thomas, TriStar Centennial, Vanderbilt Birth Center, or Hendersonville Birth Center.

I recommend booking during your second trimester to plan ahead. To ensure every family receives the attentive, personalized service they deserve, I take on a limited number of newborn sessions each month.

Booking 2–3 months in advance guarantees your spot on my newborn calendar.

How to Reserve Your Due Date

Once you have chosen Shannon Payne Photography as your newborn photographer, I will send you a private booking link to reserve your session. To officially hold your spot, a signed Client Agreement and retainer fee are required.

Rather than scheduling a set session date in advance, I’ll reserve your due date on my calendar. This gives us the flexibility to choose the best session date once your baby arrives. From there, we’ll schedule a day and time at our Nashville newborn studio during your baby’s ideal 8–21 day window.

What If Baby Arrives Early or Late?

Don’t worry – once you book a session, you’re guaranteed a spot within the ideal newborn window. No matter when your baby arrives. I will make suggestions on when to schedule newborn photos based on your baby’s needs.

If your baby arrives early and requires a NICU stay, we will fit you in 1-3 weeks after your baby arrives home. This usually falls around your baby’s original due date. I’ll work with you on when to schedule newborn photos to find the best time based on your baby’s needs.

If your baby arrives a little late, you may get a check-in email or two from me (just making sure everything’s okay!). But rest assured — babies come on their own schedule, and I always make space for my newborn clients once their little one arrives.

Nashville Newborn Photography Tips for Expecting Moms

Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Experience

Leading up to your session, I’ll send a newborn prep guide with helpful tips on how to get your baby ready, what to wear, and what to expect. My goal is for you to walk into the studio feeling confident, cared for, and excited—not rushed or unsure.

With a fully stocked studio, a calm, baby-led approach, and a thoughtfully planned process, all you have to do is show up and enjoy watching your baby be photographed.

How I Help You Prepare for Your Session

Many of my clients travel from nearby areas like East Nashville, Mount Juliet, Franklin, and Brentwood to visit my Nashville newborn studio. Depending on your location, drive times can range from about 25 minutes to just over an hour.

As a new mom, it’s completely normal to worry about getting out of the house so soon after birth. I understand this, so I’ve designed the entire experience to be as relaxing and seamless as possible.

Most newborns actually fall asleep on the car ride over, especially if they’re fed just before you leave. That combination of a full tummy and a soothing ride often leads to the deep sleep we need for those dreamy, sleepy poses.

Once you arrive, you’ll be able to settle into my quiet, cozy studio while I take care of the rest. My studio is fully stocked with a beautiful collection of wraps, headbands, bonnets, and timeless wardrobe options for both baby and parents.

You don’t need to bring a thing unless you want to—just show up and let me handle the rest.

Poses for Newborn Photos

When you arrive at the studio, I will have everything set up and ready. I choose colors and props based on your preferences in the Newborn Client Agreement.

I am fully prepared for sleepy and awake babies. I have poses prepared for both, and we will get beautiful photos of your baby regardless if they are awake or asleep. From cozy wrapped shots to relaxed, natural poses, we’ll follow your baby’s lead and capture their sweet personality just as they are.

Wrapped and Sleepy Poses

Newborn Froggy Pose

Side-lying Newborn Pose

Newborn Swing Pose

Bum Up Pose

Chin on Hands Pose

Awake and Stretchy Poses

The Newborn Yawn

Loosely Wrapped Pose

Newborn Eye Contact

Poses That Work No Matter What

Newborn Sibling Photos

Holding Baby Pose

Family Newborn Photos

When to Schedule Newborn Photos: Frequently Asked Questions

• What if my baby doesn’t sleep during the session?

That’s ok! I’m experienced with both sleepy and awake newborns. If your baby stays awake, we focus on capturing their bright eyes and sweet expressions with safe, comfortable poses.

• Do I need to bring outfits or props?

No. Our studio is fully stocked with props, fabrics, blankets, wraps, and clothing for the whole family.

• Can siblings or parents be in the photos?

Yes, we encourage you to include the whole family. We do ask that siblings come separately for the sibling portion.

• What should we wear for family photos?

I recommend neutral clothing, including whites, creams, and earth tones. Simple is best for newborn photos.

• How long does a newborn session typically last?

Newborn sessions usually last about 1.5 – 2.5 hours. This allows plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and breaks so your baby stays comfortable and relaxed. There’s no rush—my goal is to create a calm environment so we can capture beautiful photos.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

If you’re expecting and looking for a trusted Nashville newborn photographer, I’d love to help you plan a relaxed, beautiful session. I look forward to chatting with you about when to schedule newborn photos. Contact me today to reserve your due date!

“This was our second time having by Shannon take newborn photos and both times we’ve had such a wonderful experience. She goes out of her way to make it stress-free and is truly a baby (and toddler) whisperer and the end product is always stunning. I’m so happy and grateful we will have these photos to cherish forever.” ~ Elizabeth W., Nashville, TN