chicago newborn photographers: when to take newborn photos

Chicago newborn photographers usually advise you take your newborn photos at a certain time, here’s a helpful blog post all about it!

When I was preparing for my own twin daughters’ newborn photography session, I had no idea what to expect when it came to timing and planning. Babies come whenever they feel like it, so you may be wondering “When should I take my newborn photos?” This blog post will go over in detail and explain the ideal age for capturing those fleeting moments of your newborn’s first weeks of life.

Most Chicago newborn photographers, including myself, believe that scheduling your newborn session within the first two weeks of life results in the best images. Within those early days, newborns are still adapting to the world around them. They spend most of their time sleeping, which provides an opportunity to photograph them in their most peaceful and angelic state. Their delicate features, downy hair, and perfectly smooth skin create a portrait of innocence that will forever remind you of their early days.

Posing:
During the first two weeks, newborns are more likely to maintain their natural fetal position, reminiscent of their time in the womb. This flexibility allows us to create those adorable poses that make your heart skip a beat. Additionally, babies at this age tend to sleep more soundly, making it easier to gently maneuver them into different poses without disrupting their slumber. My personal photography style is more natural, so I won’t try to put your newborn in any pose that they wouldn’t be comfortable in. My goal is to capture them exactly how they would be sleeping swaddled at home. No froggy pose here, sorry!

The Essence:
As a mom, I know how the “newborn fog” can roll over you and make you forget those first days or weeks of your newborn. Each passing day brings about changes in your newborn’s appearance and behavior. By scheduling your newborn session within the first two weeks, we can ensure that we capture the true essence of your baby as a newborn.

Creating a Treasured Legacy:
Newborn photography isn’t just about capturing a moment; it’s about preserving memories that will last a lifetime. As your little one grows, you’ll find joy in revisiting these photographs, reminiscing about the tiny feet you once held in your hands or the first sleepy smile that melted your heart.

Note, that if your baby is born prematurely or spends time in the NICU (like my own daughters did), I will work closely with you to take your photos as soon as baby comes home! Premature babies tend to stay sleepy longer, until closer to their original due date. And if for some reason, baby is a little older when we schedule their newborn session, you can be confident that the photos will still turn out beautiful whether or not baby is awake in them.

As you embark on this enchanting journey of parenthood, take a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty of these precious early days. Whether you choose to schedule your session within the first two weeks or at a different age, know that you will never regret investing in these memories.

Katie

Katie Michelle Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, also specializing in maternity and family photography in the Chicago area, including Arlington Heights, Glenview, Evanston, Wilmette, and Buffalo Grove. If you are interested in planning your timeless portrait experience in my arlington heights studio or chicago outdoor photography location, please reach out via the contact button in the menu above or email me at hello@katiemichellestudios.com.