When to Book Your Newborn Photography Session

The ideal time to book your newborn session is during your second or third trimester — well before your due date. This reserves your spot on the calendar and gives you one less thing to think about after delivery. For the session itself, the sweet spot is within the first 5-14 days after birth. During this window, newborns sleep deeply, curl naturally, and are generally more settled. But if you miss that window, don't worry — Hannah's lifestyle approach captures beautiful moments at any age.

Newborns change rapidly. In the first 5-14 days, babies are still sleepy and naturally curl into those classic newborn poses. They're less likely to be fussy during the session, and they still have that brand-new quality — tiny fingers, peeling skin, the way they tuck their legs up. After two weeks, babies become more alert and active. This isn't a problem for Hannah's documentary style — alert babies make for wonderful, expressive photos — but if you want those sleepy, curled-up shots, earlier is better.

Unlike traditional studio newborn sessions with elaborate props and forced poses, Hannah comes to your home. The session captures your family's real life with a new baby — feeding, cuddling, siblings meeting their new brother or sister, quiet moments in the nursery. This approach is gentler on both baby and parents. There's no need to pack up and drive to a studio while recovering from birth. Your home, your comfort, your pace. Sessions typically last 1-2 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding breaks and diaper changes.

Preparation is simple: • Keep the house warm — sleepy babies stay sleepy in warm rooms • Natural light is your best friend — open curtains in the room you use most • Don't worry about a spotless house — Hannah focuses on your family, not your furniture • Feed the baby right before the session — full bellies mean sleepy babies • Dress everyone in soft, neutral colors Hannah sends a detailed prep guide to every family before their session, so you'll know exactly what to expect.

Due dates are estimates. Hannah builds flexibility into her newborn calendar specifically for this reason. When you book during pregnancy, she holds a window around your due date rather than a fixed appointment. Once baby arrives, you'll text or call to confirm the actual session date. If baby arrives early, Hannah will do her best to accommodate. If baby is late, no stress — the window shifts with you.