When is the best time to book a Newborn Photoshoot: A Guide for Expecting Parents

By Jessy Jones Photography – Boston, Lincolnshire

When Is the Best Time to Book a Newborn Photoshoot in Lincolnshire?

By Jessy Jones Photography – Boston, Lincolnshire

f you’re wondering when is the best time to book newborn photoshoot, you’ve come to the right place. Timing is everything when it comes to capturing those peaceful, sleepy, just-born moments that seem to pass in the blink of an eye.

In this post, I’ll guide you on the best time to photograph your baby, how to plan ahead, and what to do if your little one has already arrived.

Why Early Booking Matters

The best time to book your newborn session is while you’re still pregnant — ideally just after your 20-week scan. Once you’re booked in, I’ll pencil your due date in my calendar and keep flexibility around it, so we can arrange your session once baby arrives.

I only take a limited number of newborn bookings per month to make sure every family has space — especially since babies have a way of arriving on their own schedule! Early booking means you’ll have one less thing to think about once your baby is here, and your date will be secured.

The Ideal Timeframe for Newborn Photography

For that dreamy, curled-up look you see in many newborn photos, the best time to photograph your baby is between 5 and 21 days old.

At this stage:

• Babies are typically very sleepy and settled

• They naturally curl into those lovely, womb-like poses

• Baby acne and colic often haven’t developed yet

Every baby is different, and all of my sessions are completely baby-led — we always work at your baby’s pace to make sure they’re comfortable, happy, and safe.

Under 2 Weeks Old — Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Sleepier babies mean smoother sessions. Most newborns under two weeks old spend a lot of time in deep sleep, making it easier to gently pose them without disturbing their rest.

• Those classic curled-up poses. Because babies are still very flexible, this is the perfect age for those timeless, snuggly photos everyone loves.

• That fresh, tiny look. Babies change so quickly — photographing them early captures that delicate, brand-new stage forever.

• Fewer skin blemishes. Most babies haven’t yet developed baby acne or peeling skin, so their skin photographs beautifully.

Cons:

• Limited availability. This window is short, which is why booking during pregnancy is so important.

• You may still be recovering. Those first couple of weeks can be exhausting, so choose a photographer who creates a calm, supportive space (I make sure you can rest and enjoy the session).

• Unpredictable routines. Feeding and sleeping patterns aren’t quite established yet, so flexibility is key — and that’s totally fine!

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Between 2–4 Weeks — Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Baby’s features are more defined. Around this age, little personalities start to shine — you might even catch a few adorable open-eyed shots.

• Parents are more settled. You’ve had a bit of time to adjust to life with your new arrival, so the session often feels more relaxed.

• Routines are easier to manage. Many babies feed more predictably, which helps the session run smoothly.

Cons:

• Less likely to achieve curled-up poses. Babies are naturally more alert and less flexible, so some poses may not be possible.

• Shorter sleepy windows. Babies might spend more time awake, meaning we take a few extra breaks for feeding, cuddles, and settling.

• Possible baby acne or dry skin. Completely normal and nothing to worry about — I gently edit these while keeping skin tones natural.

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What If My Baby Has Already Arrived?

Don’t worry — it’s never too late! If your baby is already here and you’re only just thinking about newborn photos, please get in touch.

I regularly photograph babies up to 8 weeks old, and these sessions are just as special. They often include a mix of awake shots and those first tiny smiles — equally beautiful in their own way.

What Happens During a Newborn Session

Your newborn session takes place at my cosy home studio in Kirton Holme, just outside Boston, Lincolnshire. It’s a warm, calm space filled with soft wraps, blankets, outfits, and props — everything we need for a relaxing, baby-led experience.

You’ll be offered a warm drink and plenty of time to relax while I gently pose and soothe your baby. You don’t need to bring a thing (though any sentimental items are always welcome!).

Don’t Miss These Precious Moments

Whether it’s tiny toes, milk-drunk smiles, or that soft newborn fuzz, these details fade faster than you’d expect. A newborn photoshoot is all about freezing those fleeting moments — so you can hold onto them forever.

If you’re expecting in the next few months, now is the perfect time to book your newborn session.

Get in touch: Email me at jessyjonesphotography@gmail.com or message me on Facebook or Instagram @jessyjonesphotography — I’d love to create something beautiful for your family.

Jessy Jones Photography

Newborn & Family Photographer – Boston, Lincolnshire Natural, relaxed baby-led sessions capturing the love, details, and connections that matter most.