Is 4 weeks too late to do a newborn session?

Ideal Timing for Newborn Photography

• First 1-2 Weeks (Days 5-14): This period is considered the ideal window for newborn photography. Babies tend to be very sleepy and are easier to pose. They are still in that “newborn curl” position, which allows photographers to capture those classic, adorable poses. Additionally, during this time, babies are more likely to settle into deep sleep, facilitating smoother sessions.

  
  

3-4 Weeks Old

• Awake and Alert: By around three to four weeks, many babies start becoming more alert and aware of their surroundings. This can lead to some wonderful opportunities for capturing expressive faces and interactions, especially with parents and siblings. You might miss some of the sleepy poses, but you can still achieve beautiful images.

• More Stretching and Movement: At this age, babies begin to stretch out and may not curl up as much as they would earlier. This can lead to a different style of photos, focusing more on their personalities and cute details, like tiny fingers and toes.

• Possible Discomfort: Some babies might experience a more awake period due to discomfort from gas or other factors as their digestive systems begin to mature. As a result, sessions may take longer, and breaks for soothing and feeding may be more frequent.

  
  

Tips for Newborn Sessions at Four Weeks

1. Flexible Schedule: Be prepared for a more flexible session. Babies at this age may need to eat or be soothed more often, so factor in additional time for breaks.

   
   

2. Variety of Poses: Discuss with your photographer the kinds of shots you want. They may suggest a combination of posed shots and lifestyle images to capture the family dynamic and the baby’s personality.

   
   

3. Natural Light: If feasible, schedule the session around the baby’s natural alertness and sleepiness patterns, which may vary from day to day.

   
   

4. Comfortable Outfits: Choose simple and comfortable outfits for both the baby and family members. Soft textures and neutral tones work well to keep the focus on the baby.

   
   

Conclusion

While 4 weeks is certainly later than the recommended window for traditional sleepy poses, it’s definitely not too late for a newborn session. Many photographers are experienced in adapting their techniques to older babies, so you can capture beautiful images regardless of the timing. Discuss your preferences and expectations with your photographer, and don’t hesitate to ask for insights on how to make the most of your session!