JESSICA MAE

The Journal

When To Shoot Your Philadelphia Newborn Photography Session

filed under:

Newborn

Hi, I'm Jess! Philadelphia newborn photographer and mom of three.
So glad you're here.

Learn all about when you should have your Philadelphia Newborn Photography session and discover how to capture those precious moments. This guide offers expert advice for moms on the best timing and tips for hiring a newborn photographer.

When Is the Best Time for Your Philadelphia Newborn Photography Session?

If you’re expecting a baby, one of the most common questions I get as a Philadelphia newborn photographer is: “When should we schedule our newborn session?”

And the short answer?
Within the first two weeks of life—ideally 5–14 days old.

But let’s talk about why that window matters, and what to do if life doesn’t go exactly as planned (because… newborn life rarely does).

mom holding newborn baby in the nursery during her philadephia newborn photography session

Why the First Two Weeks Are Ideal For Your Philadelphia Newborn Photography Session

Those early days are something special.

Your baby is still so tiny, so curled up, and so sleepy. During this stage, they naturally settle into those cozy, womb-like poses that create the soft, connected images you probably fell in love with when searching for philadelphia newborn photography.

Around this time, babies:

  • Sleep more deeply and for longer stretches
  • Curl naturally into those sweet, snuggly positions
  • Are less sensitive to movement and posing

All of this allows for a calm, relaxed session where we can capture those fleeting details—tiny fingers, wrinkly toes, and the way they fit perfectly in your arms.


What If I Don’t Feel Ready Yet For My Philadelphia Newborn Photography Session?

This matters just as much.

While I recommend scheduling your session within those first two weeks, your recovery and comfort always come first. If you’ve had a long delivery, a C-section, or just need more time to settle in, that’s completely okay.

As a philadelphia newborn photographer, I approach every session with flexibility and care.
If you’re not ready at 7 days postpartum, we adjust.

Because the goal isn’t perfection—it’s preserving this season in a way that feels good to you.


What Happens After Two Weeks?

Can you still take beautiful newborn photos?
Absolutely.

Your gallery may just look a little different—and still just as meaningful.

Older newborns (3–6 weeks) tend to:

  • Be more awake and alert
  • Stretch out more instead of curling tightly
  • Show more eye contact and early personality

These sessions often feel more interactive and connection-focused, which many families end up loving even more.


When Should You Book Your Philadelphia Newborn Photography Session?

The best time to book your newborn session is actually during your second trimester.

Most of my clients who are looking for a philadelphia newborn photography or a trusted chester county photographer and they reserve their spot early to make sure availability isn’t an added stress once baby arrives.

I pencil you in based on your due date, then once your baby is here, we choose the exact session date.

Simple, flexible, and one less thing on your mind.


Final Thoughts

There is no such thing as a perfect timeline—only what’s right for you and your baby.

Yes, those first two weeks are ideal for that classic sleepy newborn look.
But whether your session happens at 10 days or 4 weeks…

What matters most is capturing:

  • your connection
  • your love
  • and this once-in-a-lifetime season

Because it passes so quickly.


Ready to Plan Your Session?

If you’re expecting and looking for philadelphia newborn photography or a relaxed, natural harrisburg photographer, I’d love to help you document this season in a way that feels effortless and meaningful.

Reach out here to start planning your session—I’ll walk you through every step 🤍

Hi, I'm Sofia Bianco, a photographer and brand content creator based on the Amalfi Coast. So glad you're here.

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Jessica Mae is a Philadelphia newborn photographer creating heartfelt, documentary-style images and films that preserve the beauty of your everyday life.

Behind the Camera

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This is where I'm supposed to put cool things like: I love baking! My house is always clean! My kids are perfect! 

Sorry to bust your bubble, but none of that is true. I would rather eat a pastry than bake a pastry, my house usually has crumbs on the couch (you can thank my 3 year old for that), and my kids have lots of big feelings. 

And I never thought I'd be a family photographer because I couldn't handle kids not looking at the camera.

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