Best Age for Newborn Photos: A Madison Parent's Complete Guide to Baby Milestone Sessions

As both a photographer and a mom, I know exactly how precious (and fleeting!) each baby stage is. Those early days feel like they pass in the blink of an eye, don't they? I hear from so many moms wondering about the perfect time to capture their little one's photos. Let me break down the four key things to consider when planning your baby's session here in Madison, Wi.

1. Age & Size - Those Tiny Details

When it comes to deciding on a session, one of the questions you need to ask yourself is what age and size are you wanting in those photographs. Many times parents choose those first few weeks because the baby is so fresh and new, still small and squishy. There's something magical about those first days when they're at their smallest and most cuddly. I can't tell you how many parents look back at these photos and say, "I can't believe they were ever that tiny!" Trust me, mom brain is real during those early days, and having these moments captured helps preserve those precious details forever. However, if you're wanting to wait a little bit until the baby has their eyes open more or able to crack the cutest smile, that is a perfect time as well.

2. How You Feel - Let's Keep It Real

Here's something we don't talk about enough - how YOU feel matters too! If you're planning to be in the photos (which I totally encourage!), it's important to consider your own recovery journey. Maybe you had an intense birth experience and need a little more time. I totally get it - I was the mom in pajamas with messy hair for days! But I did find the energy for photos in those first few weeks, and now I treasure having those images that show not just my baby, but my strong postpartum body too. There is no wrong or right time for this; however, I would suggest not continuing to push them off because we eventually wake up and the baby is 5, and we're like, "Oh no, we didn't capture any of it!"

3. Location, Location, Location

Those first few months are perfect for cozy in-home sessions, where everything you need is right at hand. But don't feel limited! When the weather cooperates (hello, Wisconsin summers!), we can venture outdoors or maybe we can plan to even do a combination of both. Your home tells part of your story, and those first moments there are precious as a family.

4. Your Vision - What's Your Style?

If you're dreaming of those sweet, curled-up newborn poses (you know, the ones where they look like tiny wrapped presents!), we'll want to schedule within the first 10 days. After that, little ones' eyes start staying open more, and they stretch out from that cute, scrunched-up position. Both stages are beautiful - but think about what it is you're wanting to capture to help deciding when is best.

Every new baby's journey is unique, and the perfect time for photos is truly whenever feels right for your family. Ready to preserve these fleeting moments? Let's create something beautiful together.

In joy and light, Alexandria ✨