Planning your baby’s first photo session? As a Phoenix maternity and newborn photographer, I’ve worked with hundreds of growing families, and one thing is always true: the more you know ahead of time, the smoother (and more meaningful!) your session will be. Whether you’re a first-time mom or juggling multiple kiddos, these tips will help you feel confident, prepared, and totally at ease before stepping into the studio.
Here’s a quick overview:
- When to book: During your second or third trimester
- Best age for photos: Between 1–3 weeks old
- What to bring: Just yourselves—my studio has everything you need
- How long it takes: Plan for 1.5–2.5 hours
- What to expect: A calm, baby-led experience
Why it matters:
- Capturing this fleeting stage is priceless
- Preparation reduces stress and enhances the experience
- You deserve photos that reflect the beauty of these early days
Let’s dive into the five things every mom should know before booking a newborn photo session.
Book Early—Preferably Before Baby Arrives
The best time to photograph your baby is between 1–3 weeks old. During this time, babies are often still sleepy and snuggly, which makes those sweet curled-up poses and relaxed family shots easier to capture. Since babies don’t always arrive right on schedule, it’s best to book your session during your second or third trimester so we can tentatively hold space around your due date.
If you’re still in that stage, you may also want to explore our maternity photography sessions to capture this precious chapter before baby arrives.
The Studio Has Everything You Need
You don’t need to stress about packing a bag full of props or outfits. My studio is fully stocked with curated swaddles, blankets, neutral wardrobe options, headbands, and accessories—all selected to create timeless, beautiful images. Just bring yourselves, a diaper bag, and whatever helps you and baby feel comfortable.
Want to see what that looks like? Browse my newborn photo gallery to see real client sessions and styling examples.
Comfort Comes First—for Baby and You
The studio is designed with new parents in mind: warm, quiet, and calming. There’s a comfortable feeding area, a changing station, and soft music or white noise to soothe your baby. Sessions are never rushed—we follow baby’s lead, allowing plenty of time for feeding, cuddling, and diaper changes.
You Should Be in the Photos Too
New moms often hesitate to get in front of the camera, but I promise you—these images will mean the world later. You don’t need to look perfect. We keep the styling soft and simple, using natural poses, flattering light, and neutral tones to focus on the connection between you and your baby.
Need help deciding what to wear? Check out my client wardrobe specifically curated for postpartum moms to wear.
You Can Relax—Really
This session is designed to be as low-stress as possible. Once you walk through the door, you can exhale. I’ll gently guide the process while you sit back and enjoy the moment. These early days pass in a blur—your job is to soak it in. My job is to preserve it beautifully.
If you’re expecting and looking for a Phoenix maternity and newborn photographer who will make the process simple, comfortable, and meaningful, I’d love to connect. Let’s create something beautiful together!
