When is the Best Time to Book a Newborn Photographer in Derby?
If you are expecting a baby, you have probably Googled “when is the best time to book a newborn photographer” and seen the same answer everywhere: under 14 days. Two weeks or bust. Otherwise, you have “missed your chance”.
Let me start by saying this: that is total BS (excuse my french…).
Yes, in the studio photography world, where babies are wrapped tightly, posed in baskets and made to look like little dolls, the under-two-week rule matters. Babies are sleepier in those early days, which makes those very posed photos possible. But my approach is different. I photograph families at home, in your own space, with a natural, lifestyle feel. And for that, there really is no cut-off.
Why do people say newborn photos have to be under 2 weeks?
Studio photographers often work to a formula. Babies are more likely to be curled up, sleepy and flexible in those first days. It helps with those “perfectly posed” shots you see on Pinterest. By the time your baby is a month old, they are usually more awake, stretchier, and less willing to be folded into a pose.
For lifestyle photography, this is not a problem at all. In fact, it is often a positive.
What does a newborn session look like at 2 weeks vs 6 weeks?
The truth is, every stage has its magic.
At 2 weeks: babies are often still very sleepy. You get lots of cuddly, wrapped-up photos, tiny details, and maybe a few hazy smiles. Parents are still in that “newborn bubble”.
At 4–6 weeks: babies are more alert. You might get gorgeous wide-eyed photos, more little expressions, and even the start of those first proper smiles. Parents are often more settled too, which makes the whole session feel more relaxed.
Neither one is “better”… they are just different stories of your baby’s beginning.
What should your baby wear for a newborn photoshoot?
I like to keep outfits simple so the focus stays on your baby. Usually, we do one or two outfit changes, and then some shots with just a nappy or little bloomers, and some wrapped up snug in one of my soft wraps. I provide neutral bloomers and wraps if you don’t have any, but if you do have a favourite outfit or keepsake you’d love included, bring it along.
The simpler the clothing, the more timeless the photos feel, soft baby grows, plain vests, or little knitted items always look beautiful.
What happens if the light isn’t good in our house?
This is one of the questions I get asked most often, and I promise you it’s never a problem.
Even if you think your house is “too dark”, all I need is one window with natural light coming through. We can do an entire session right there. It’s then up to me to move around, switch lenses, and find angles that make the most of the light. That’s the joy of lifestyle photography; it doesn’t need a big set-up, just trust that I’ll find the beauty in the space you live in.
Is it too late to book if my baby is already here?
No. It is never too late.
I have photographed babies at 2 weeks, 2 months, even 6 months in what parents still call their “newborn shoot”. Each stage looks a little different, but the feeling is the same: honest, heartfelt photographs of you with your new little human.
If you are reading this while your baby naps on you and feeling like you “missed the window”, you absolutely haven’t. Get in touch, and we will make it work.
How to prepare for your newborn session
Because I work in your home, the focus is on comfort and connection, not perfection. Natural light from a bedroom window, cuddles on the sofa, feeding breaks when needed — all of this is part of the session.
If you are wondering how to get ready, I have written a full guide: How to Prepare for Your Newborn Session.
When should you book your Derby newborn photographer?
Most families book during pregnancy, often around the 20-week scan, just to secure a space in my diary. Babies arrive when they want to, so I keep things flexible. If your little one comes early or late, we simply move the session to when you are ready.
That said, if your baby is already here, do not panic. Drop me a message, and I will always try to fit you in.
Final thoughts
The best time to book your newborn photographer in Derby is… whenever feels right for you. Do not feel pressured by arbitrary rules. Whether your baby is 10 days old or 10 weeks, I promise we can capture something beautiful, something real, and something you will be glad to have for years to come.
If you are curious, you can also see more real newborn sessions at home here.