When Is the Best Time to Schedule Your Newborn Lifestyle Session?

by Christin Coats Photography

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of the most beautiful, emotional, and transformative seasons of life. It’s a blur of sleepy snuggles, soft cries, and falling in love all over again—sometimes while running on very little sleep. And in the middle of all that sweetness and chaos, you might be wondering… when’s the best time to schedule our newborn photos?

Great question—and I’ve got you covered!

Let’s talk about lifestyle newborn sessions (the cozy, natural, in-your-home kind), and why timing matters—but also why there’s no such thing as “too late” to capture the beauty of your growing family.

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The Sweet Spot: 7–21 Days Old

For most lifestyle sessions, I recommend scheduling your shoot within the first 1–3 weeks after birth. Around 7–21 days is that beautiful window when babies are still teeny-tiny, extra snuggly, and often sleepy (which helps us capture those peaceful, curled-up moments).

At this stage, baby is still adjusting to the world, and your home is full of that fresh, new energy. It’s a magical time to preserve.

But here’s the best part about lifestyle sessions…

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They’re Not Just About the Newborn—They’re About the Connection

Unlike traditional posed studio newborn photos, lifestyle sessions are all about the real moments—your quiet cuddles, the way baby fits perfectly in your arms, the proud sibling sneaking a peek, the nursery you lovingly prepared.

So if your baby is already a few weeks (or even a couple of months!) old, please don’t worry. You haven’t missed your chance. I’ve photographed babies at 4, 6, even 8 weeks old, and the moments are just as meaningful. Sometimes even more relaxed, because you’ve had time to settle in a bit.

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What Matters Most? Your Comfort and Readiness

This season is tender. Whether you had a smooth delivery or a tough one, whether you’re thriving or just surviving—the timing should work for you. If you need a little extra time to rest, adjust, or get into your rhythm, that’s perfectly okay.

Your session should feel like a calm, joy-filled pause, not a stressor on your to-do list.

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A Few Tips for Scheduling:

• Book early if you can: I always recommend reaching out during your second or third trimester to reserve a spot around your due date. Once baby arrives, we’ll pick a firm date based on how you’re feeling.

• Be flexible: Babies have their own timeline, and I totally get that. I’ll work with you to find a day that feels right.

• No pressure for perfection: Your home doesn’t need to be spotless. You don’t have to be in full makeup. These photos are about love, not perfection.

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Whether your baby is brand new or already starting to smile at you, your story is worth documenting. These early days are fleeting—but the memories we capture together will last a lifetime.

Let’s preserve this beautiful chapter, just as it is.

With love and grace,

Christin

Christin Coats Photography

www.christincoatsphotography.com

@christincoatsphotography