When to Book Your Newborn Session

And What Happens When You Forget

Let’s be real. If pregnancy brain is a thing, then newborn brain is its final form. Between midnight feedings, wrestling limbs into swaddles, and wondering if you’ll ever drink a hot beverage again, it’s no surprise that booking your newborn photographer might slip down the to-do list.

So if you’re reading this and already holding your baby — hi, you’re not too late!

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My goal is to photograph your baby within the first four weeks after birth.

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At Once Upon a Flash Photography, my goal is to photograph your baby within the first four weeks after birth. Why? Because those early weeks full of sleepy snuggles, curled-up poses, and that brand-new softness fade faster than you’d expect. Around the 2-3 week mark, babies are still flexible, snoozy, and less prone to baby acne or colic. I can gently pose them in those classic womb-like positions with comfort and care.

But let’s rewind for a second…

When Should You Book a Newborn Session?

The best time to reserve your newborn session is during your second trimester. That is early enough to plan ahead, but late enough so you’re over the hump of early symptoms and feeling more confident about what’s to come. On the other hand, I’ve definitely received booking requests mere minutes after confirmation from the test! 

I pencil you in based on your due date and leave plenty of wiggle room around it, knowing babies have their own schedules. Don’t they all? Once your baby arrives, just send me a quick message, and we’ll finalize your session within that sweet spot of 10-28 days after birth.

This approach ensures I’m available and prepped with cozy props, soft wraps, and a calm studio environment made just for you and your little love.

But What If You Forgot?

Deep breath — I’ve got you.

Sometimes babies show up early, sometimes the fourth trimester hits like a freight train, and sometimes time just moves differently in those first few weeks. I always do my best to accommodate late bookings when I can.

If your baby is past that 4-week mark, no worries! I adjust my posing style to suit your baby’s comfort and alertness. We may not get all the super curly poses, but we’ll capture expressions, snuggles, eye contact, and all the brand-new beauty that’s still very much worth preserving.

If you’ve been through a long fertility journey or are navigating the tender emotions of finally holding your rainbow baby — I understand how deeply important these images are. No matter when you reach out, you will be met with care, flexibility, and zero judgment.

I’m always deeply grateful to be included in your journey.

TL;DR: Earlier is better, but late is still lovely.

Whether you’re a planner or a “fly by the seat of your mesh hospital panties” kind of mama, there’s a place for you here.

So book early if you can. I will also accept inquiries sent at 2 a.m. while you rock your newborn, wondering if the laundry will fold itself. It won’t, but I believe in you anyway! Either way, I’d be honored to help you tell the very beginning of your baby’s story.

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