What’s the best age for newborn sessions?

You may have heard that the best time for newborn sessions is before they reach 2 weeks old. In some ways, this makes a lot of sense, but it’s definitely not the only age to get newborn portraits done.

Let’s take a look at different newborn ages and how your portraits will look.

1-2 Weeks Old

The 1-2 week old baby session has both positives and negatives.

PROS

• Your baby at 1-2 weeks will still be very sleepy for those eyes-closed, relaxed shots
• 1-2 week old babies are still happy to be curled up like they were in the womb, which helps me get those sweet curly images in wraps
• Your brand new baby will change drastically after the first few weeks, so capturing them at 1-2 weeks is the best time for the true newborn portrait.

CONS

• 1-2 weeks after delivery, moms may not feel super mobile or ready to leave the house; especially after difficult deliveries and c-sections.
• Your baby will likely not be on any sort of schedule, so it’s hard to know when the best time to come in for portraits would be
• Feeding can be challenging still at this age (personal experience here), which can add extra stress to moms who are still practicing breastfeeding or getting their baby to accept bottles.

Older Babies

Babies older than 2 weeks are absolutely still at a good age for newborn portraits.

PROS

• Mamas are typically feeling much better and getting a little more sleep after the 2 week mark.
• After 2 weeks, you’ve likely been out and about with your new baby for appointments and family gatherings, so you are more comfortable leaving your home with a new baby.
• Your baby will still be tiny, but will be more alert. This allows for open eye shots, eye contact with the camera, and sometimes some sweet smiles.
• Older babies tend to interact with family members be reaching for hair and holding fingers. These interactions make adorable portraits.

CONS

• Babies over 2 weeks will go through growth spurts often that require longer feedings during sessions.
• Older babies also sometimes develop baby acne, which can worsen when fussy during sessions
• Babies over 2 weeks are also more likely to want to stretch out their arms and legs, so those curled up, sleepy shots are much less likely to happen