One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "When is the best time to have newborn photos taken?"
If you're expecting a little one, it's completely natural to wonder when to book your session. The truth is, those first few weeks pass by in a blur of tiny yawns, sleepy cuddles and getting to know your beautiful new baby. Before you know it, they've already changed.
As a newborn photographer based in Shaldon, near Teignmouth, I love helping families preserve these fleeting moments with timeless photographs they'll treasure forever. Here's everything you need to know about the best time for newborn photography and why those early days are so special.
Why the First Two Weeks Are Ideal
The ideal time for a newborn photography session is usually between 5 and 14 days after birth.
During this stage, babies are often:
Sleepier and more settled
Naturally curled into those cosy newborn positions
Less disturbed when gently moved
Still showing those tiny newborn features that change so quickly
This means we can take our time creating a relaxed collection of images while always working around your baby's needs.
Every session is completely baby-led, allowing plenty of time for feeding, changing, cuddles and comforting whenever needed.
What If My Baby Is Older Than Two Weeks?
Please don't worry if life has been busy or you've only just started thinking about professional photographs.
Beautiful newborn portraits can still be created after the two-week mark.
Older newborns may:
Stay awake for longer
Stretch out more naturally
Make more eye contact
Begin showing their emerging personality
These little differences often create wonderfully expressive images that tell their own story.
My aim isn't to recreate the same photographs for every family—it's to capture your baby exactly as they are in this moment.
Should I Book Before My Baby Is Born?
Yes—absolutely.
The best time to reserve your newborn session is during your second trimester, ideally after your 20-week scan.
Rather than booking a fixed date, I reserve space around your estimated due date. Once your baby arrives, we'll arrange the perfect day for your session.
This means you don't need to worry if your little one arrives earlier or later than expected.
Booking in advance also gives you one less thing to think about once your baby is here.
Every Baby Is Different
One of the things I love most about newborn photography is that no two babies are ever the same.
Some sleep peacefully throughout the session.
Some would rather stay awake and take in the world around them.
Some need extra cuddles.
Some simply want to feed a little more often.
Every single one of these moments is completely normal.
Your session is never rushed, and your baby's comfort always comes first.
It's Never Too Late
One of the biggest misconceptions about newborn photography is that you've "missed your chance" if your baby is older than two weeks.
The reality is that every stage of your baby's first year is worth celebrating.
Whether your little one is:
Three weeks old
Six weeks old
Two months old
We can still create beautiful, heartfelt photographs that you'll treasure forever.
Sometimes those wide-open eyes, little smiles and growing curiosity become parents' favourite memories.
More Than Beautiful Photographs
Newborn photography isn't just about capturing your baby's tiny fingers or delicate eyelashes.
It's about preserving the feeling of this extraordinary chapter in your family's story.
The way they fit perfectly in your arms.
The tiny stretch after a nap.
The way they instinctively curl into your chest.
The gentle kisses from proud older siblings.
These are the moments that become priceless with time.
A Relaxed Experience for Your Family
At Pengelly Portraits, every newborn photography session is designed to feel calm, welcoming and completely unhurried.
My studio in Shaldon, near Teignmouth, welcomes families from across South Devon, including Newton Abbot, Exeter, Torquay, Dawlish and the surrounding areas.
Whether your baby is just a few days old or a little older than expected, I'll work gently around their individual needs to create timeless photographs that truly reflect your family.
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
If you're expecting a baby and would love to preserve those precious early days, I'd be honoured to welcome you to Pengelly Portraits.
The first weeks pass incredibly quickly, but beautiful photographs allow you to revisit them for a lifetime.
If you'd like to find out more or reserve your due date, I'd love to hear from you. Together, we'll create a relaxed photography experience and timeless images your family will cherish for generations.
