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What Age Is Best For A Newborn Session?

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January 11, 2026

On January 11, 2026

Introduction to Newborn Photography

As an experienced newborn photographer with 12 years of experience, I often get asked about the ideal age for a newborn photography session. The answer to this question can vary depending on the photographer’s style, experience, and personal preference. In this article, we will explore the best age for a newborn session and what factors to consider when planning your baby’s photo shoot.

How Old Should a Newborn Be for Their Newborn Photography Session?

The most common answer across the newborn photography profession is under 14 days old. This is because newborns are generally sleepier and more relaxed during this period, making it easier to capture peaceful and serene photos. However, as a photographer with a natural and lifestyle approach, I recommend under three weeks old as the ideal age for a newborn session.

Why Do Newborns Need to Be This Young for a Session?

Newborns under two weeks old typically sleep a lot and are more flexible, making it easier to pose them for photos. As they get older, they become more awake and alert, making it more challenging to capture the desired shots. Additionally, the older a newborn gets, the less “fresh” and curly they look, which can make it harder to achieve the traditional newborn photography look.

How Newborn Photography Style Effects the Required Age

The recommended age for a newborn session depends on the style of photography. For natural and lifestyle newborn photography, the age limit is more flexible, and I love photographing newborns up to one month old. However, for posed and prop-focused newborn photography, it’s essential to have a newborn under 14 days old to achieve the desired look.

Natural & Lifestyle Newborn Photography

This style of photography focuses on relaxed poses, natural moments, and minimal use of props. I love photographing newborns up to one month old for this style, as they don’t need to be asleep for the whole session, and we can capture gorgeous awake shots filled with adorable expressions.

Posed & Prop Focused Newborn Photography

This style of photography requires a newborn to be under 14 days old, as they need to be sleepy and flexible to pose them in props like buckets or bowls. As a result, there is a stricter age limit for this style of newborn photography.

Is My Baby Too Old for a Newborn Photoshoot?

If your baby is over four weeks old, they might be too old for the traditional newborn session, but it’s not too late to capture their milestones. Consider a natural newborn session or a milestone session at 2-4 months, 6-9 months, or their first birthday.

What Other Types of Milestone Sessions Can I Do in the First Year?

2-4 Month Milestone Photography Session

This is a lovely stage to photograph, as babies are starting to develop their personalities and expressions. You can capture adorable smiles and milestones like lifting their heads and discovering their hands.

Sitter Session

This is one of my favorite types of sessions, as babies are chunky, smiley, and filled with laughter. I love capturing their little personalities and milestones like sitting up and interacting with their surroundings.

First Birthday Session

Celebrate your baby’s first year with a special photo shoot. I love capturing their little personalities and milestones like walking, talking, and interacting with their surroundings.

Family Sessions

Family sessions are a great way to capture your baby’s milestones and create beautiful memories with your loved ones. I love photographing families and creating stunning, natural images that will be treasured for years to come.