Photography
Misty Dawn

The Best Time For Baby Photos

Capturing beautiful baby photos is a priority for many parents, but knowing when to schedule a session can make all the difference. If you’re wondering when the best time to take baby photos is, this guide will help you choose the perfect milestone for those precious memories.

Newborn Photos (0-2 Weeks Old)

For parents who want those sleepy, curled-up poses, the best time for newborn photography is within the first two weeks after birth. During this stage, babies are still very sleepy, making it easier to pose them in those adorable womb-like positions. As newborns grow beyond two weeks, they become more alert, stretch out more, and may experience baby acne or digestive discomfort, making sessions more challenging. Additionally, older newborns tend to be less settled, which can lead to a more stressful experience for both baby and parents. While newborn sessions can still be done up to six weeks, capturing those dreamy, posed images is significantly more successful within the first 14 days. The soft wrap and fabric used in this session comes from Fancy Fabrics and Props, ensuring a cozy and beautiful setup for your newborn’s first portraits. If you’re considering professional newborn photography, it’s best to book your session during pregnancy to secure a spot within this ideal timeframe.

A newborn baby girl curled up on soft fabric during a professional baby photoshoot in Birmingham, AL

Three Months: Early Smiles and Personality

At around three months old, babies begin to develop more head control and can offer sweet smiles and expressions. While they won’t be able to sit up independently yet, this stage is great for capturing more alert, engaging baby photos that showcase your little one’s emerging personality.

A three-month-old baby girl with dark hair and a pink floral headband, smiling during tummy time on a soft pink blanket at Misty Dawn Photography studio in Birmingham, AL.

Six to Seven Months: Sitting Up, Big Expressions

This is one of the most fun ages for baby photography! Around six to seven months, babies can sit up unassisted, which allows for a variety of poses and setups. The backdrop used in this session, Heirloom Spring Enchantment, creates a timeless and dreamy setting for capturing this special milestone. At this stage, they are also highly expressive, making it the perfect time to capture joyful smiles and giggles. This milestone session is often a favorite among parents because it offers so much variety in images.

A six-month-old baby girl with blue eyes, dressed in a ruffled blue romper and a floral crown, sitting in a woven basket surrounded by flowers during a milestone baby photoshoot at Misty Dawn Photography in Birmingham, AL

First Birthday Photos: A Big Celebration!

A first birthday is a major milestone, and capturing this stage with a special cake smash session is a wonderful way to celebrate. These baby photos will document an exciting transition from babyhood to toddlerhood.

A one-year-old baby girl dressed in a white lace romper, smiling during a cake smash session with a floral and pink theme at Misty Dawn Photography in Birmingham, AL.

Which Milestone is Best for You?

The best time to take baby photos depends on what moments you want to capture. Each stage offers something unique, from angelic newborn images to expressive milestone sessions. Many parents choose to document multiple stages throughout their baby’s first year with a Baby Plan to ensure they don’t miss any precious moments. If you’re still preparing for your baby’s arrival, you might also find our Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Hospital for Your Baby in Birmingham, Alabama helpful.

If you’re ready to schedule a baby photography session, I’d love to help you capture these fleeting moments. Contact me today to plan your baby’s perfect milestone session!

baby photo wrapped in blue with only hands and feet exposed laying in a bowl with pillow

March 20, 2025

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