Will I Regret Not Getting Newborn Photos?

What I Wish I Knew Before My Boys’ Newborn Photos—And How It Changed My Approach

My boys are 19 and 16 now, and when they were born, newborn photos just weren’t what they are today. There were no search engines to help me find a “newborn photographer near me,” no prep guides to walk me through what to expect—and no social media to inspire or reassure me when I wondered, “Will I regret not getting newborn photos?”

With my oldest, I found a photographer through my OBGYN’s office. The sitting fee was free, so I figured—why not? What I didn’t know was that pricing wasn’t shared until our ordering appointment weeks later. When I saw the cost of an 8×10 print, I was devastated. We couldn’t afford it. I left without purchasing a single photo.

When my second son was born, I waited a month to schedule his newborn photos. I thought I’d feel better after losing some of the baby weight. But by the time we arrived for his session, he was too alert for the curled-up, sleepy images I had in mind. I missed that window without even realizing it.

Both of these experiences have stayed with me—and they’ve guided how I built my own newborn photography business. As a Nashville newborn photographer, I pride myself on clear communication, thorough preparation, and delivering timeless images families will cherish forever.

Will I Regret Not Getting Newborn Photos?

Here’s what I’ve also learned after 15 years of photographing babies: You’ll never regret the photos you did take. It’s often the ones you don’t that leave a lasting ache.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this from moms: “We skipped newborn photos, and now I really wish we hadn’t.”

Sometimes life after birth feels like a blur. You’re recovering, figuring out feeding, adjusting to life as a new parent—and it’s easy for newborn photos to slip down the priority list. I’ve even experienced this firsthand myself.

Why Parents May Delay or Skip Newborn Photos

You’re overwhelmed. You’re recovering physically and emotionally, learning how to care for your new baby, and maybe even navigating siblings.

You want to feel like yourself again. Many moms tell me they delayed newborn photos because they didn’t feel camera-ready. They wanted to lose the baby weight or get more sleep first.

You didn’t know when to schedule. If you didn’t research ahead of time, you may have missed when or how early to book. It’s easy to miss the ideal window.

You thought phone photos would be enough. iPhones are great, but they don’t replace professional lighting, posing, and artistry. More than that, they miss the luxury experience of a beautifully curated studio designed just for these moments.

You were worried about budget. Babies come with lots of expenses. But investing in timeless, heirloom-quality images is an investment in your family’s legacy. Years from now, those portraits will be priceless reminders of this beautiful beginning. They will be far more meaningful than any bassinet or swing.

Do you want to know the best part about choosing a newborn session with Shannon Payne Photography? You don’t have to bring a thing but your baby. At my Nashville-area newborn studio, everything is provided. I’ve created a calm, stress-free experience so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy watching your baby’s first portraits come to life.

Is it Worth Getting a Newborn Photoshoot?

100% absolutely yes! Here are common regrets I hear from parents:

• “I thought I’d remember how tiny they were—but I’ve already forgotten.”
• “I wish I had just one beautiful photo of us as a family in those early days.”

• “They changed so fast—I didn’t expect that.”

Sometimes, parents choose photographers based on convenience or price, only to be disappointed with images that don’t capture the magic or quality they hoped for. The truth is, newborn photography is an art that requires experience, patience, and a careful eye—qualities that make all the difference in creating timeless, frame-worthy portraits.

Curious to see my style? Take a look at my newborn portfolio to see how I capture these precious moments with care and creativity.

What If I Missed the Newborn Window?

Don’t worry. While 8–21 days is the best age for newborn photos, I regularly photograph babies up to 8 weeks old—and beyond.

During the first month, babies go through incredible physical changes: they begin stretching out, losing that “curled-up” womb-like posture, and often develop signs of baby acne or flaky skin. (Read more about newborn development here.) That’s why timing plays such a big role in the look and feel of your images.

We may do more wrapped poses and awake expressions, but the beauty is still there. No matter your baby’s age, every family deserves an unforgettable newborn session tailored just for them.

If you’ve already missed the newborn stage, consider a tummy time session around 4 months or a sitter session around 6-8 months.

Why Professional Newborn Photos Are Worth the Investment

If you’re expecting or recently had a baby and are unsure whether to book newborn photos, ask yourself this: Years from now, what photos will I wish I had?

You won’t remember the sleepless nights or the spit-up stained clothes—but you will cherish a photo of your baby snuggled in your arms, of their sweet hands tucked under their face, of that first family portrait.

So if you’re on the fence, reach out. Let’s talk. I promise to make the process easy, relaxing, and meaningful—for you and your baby.

I am so glad we had Shannon do our newborn photos! She was nice, professional, and had a quick return! We are so thrilled with our pictures and would recommend her to anyone!

Bri M., Nashville, TN

Frequently Asked Questions About Newborn Photography

When is the best time to schedule newborn photos?

The ideal window for posed, sleepy newborn photos is between 8 and 21 days after birth. However, I also photograph babies up to 8 weeks old and beyond, capturing beautiful, natural moments that families will cherish.

How soon should I book my newborn photo session?

It’s best to book your newborn photography session during pregnancy, preferably during your 2nd trimester. Newborn photographers often have limited availability, especially during peak seasons. If your baby has already arrived, please reach out. We will try our best to fit you in.

What should we wear for newborn photos?

I recommend whites, creams, and neutral tones for the whole family. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors that distract from your baby. I’m happy to offer styling tips and provide a client wardrobe to help you look your best.

Can I bring siblings to the newborn photo session?

Absolutely! Including siblings can make your photos even more special. I create a relaxed, safe environment to capture those precious family moments.

Why choose professional newborn photos over phone pictures?

Professional newborn photography offers expert lighting, posing, and artistry that phone photos simply can’t match. Plus, a full-service studio experience ensures timeless, high-quality images you’ll treasure forever.

What if I missed the ideal newborn window?

No worries! If you’ve missed the newborn phase, consider a tummy time session at 4 months or a sitter session between 6 and 8 months. These sessions beautifully capture your baby’s milestones and personality.

How much does a newborn photography session cost?

At Shannon Payne Photography, newborn sessions begin at $850. I offer a luxury, full-service experience with heirloom-quality images designed to last a lifetime. You’ll receive clear pricing upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.

View full investment details here

Book Your Nashville Newborn Photography Session Today

If you’re wondering when to schedule newborn photos, check out my detailed blog post to help you plan the perfect time for your session. And if you have questions about preparing for your shoot or what to expect, check out my FAQs page for all the answers.

If you’re in Nashville or the surrounding areas and want to capture these precious early moments, I’d love to chat! Contact me here to book your newborn session at my studio in Hendersonville, TN. Reach out today!