Are you eagerly awaiting the arrival of your little bundle of joy? If so, you're probably contemplating when the best time is to capture those precious newborn moments. At Samantha Ann Photo, we understand the importance of preserving these early memories, and we're here to guide you on the ideal age for newborn photos.


The Golden Window: 5 to 14 Days Old

The optimal time for a photoshoot is between 5 to 14 days after birth. During this period, babies are still in their sleepy and curly phase, making it easier to capture those adorable, peaceful poses. Their flexibility and relatively calm demeanor at this age allow for a wider variety of shots, showcasing your newborn in the most charming way.


While the 5 to 14-day window is considered the sweet spot, there are individual factors to consider:


  1. Health and Prematurity: If your baby was born prematurely or has health concerns, it might be best to wait until they are stronger and healthier (prescheduling allows for us to flex our calendar and guarantee availability in such instances).
  2. Circumstances of Birth: Cesarean sections or complicated deliveries may affect the baby's well-being and, consequently, the timing of the photoshoot.
  3. Parental Readiness: It's crucial to consider the parents' well-being and readiness for a photoshoot. Make sure to schedule it when you feel comfortable and settled at home.


While the early days provide those classic sleepy poses, there's no need to worry if you miss the golden window. Newborns grow and change rapidly, and each stage brings its own charm...


  1. 2-4 Weeks: If you miss the initial window, don't fret! Babies are still relatively sleepy and can be molded into adorable poses during this period.
  2. 1-2 Months: As your baby starts becoming more alert and responsive, capturing their wide-eyed curiosity and tiny expressions can result in heartwarming photos in more lifestyle captures.
  3. 3-6 Months: At this stage, babies can typically support their heads, smile, and showcase their budding personalities. Seated and tummy time shots are wonderful during milestone sessions! We encourage milestone sessions to document all of the changes throughout the first year with your little one.
  4. 6-12 Months: Celebrate those first milestones – sitting up, crawling, and perhaps even taking their first steps. These moments are perfect for capturing the joy of exploration.


In the world of newborn photography, timing is crucial, but it's not everything. Every stage of your baby's early life is filled with precious moments worth capturing. We specialize in creating timeless memories at every stage, ensuring you have a beautiful collection that tells the unique story of your baby's first year. Book your session today and let us help you freeze those fleeting moments in time!