As a Zionsville newborn photographer, we know welcoming a new baby into your family is an experience unlike any other. The tiny fingers, the soft coos, the way they curl up so perfectly in your arms—it’s a stage of life that feels like a beautiful blur. I still recall bringing my firstborn, Isla, home from the hospital. I distinctly remember rocking her at two in the morning, sobbing…wishing for her to stay little. Now that she’s a beautiful, brilliant almost ten-year-old, that memory hits different. That’s why newborn photography is so special. It’s a way to freeze those fleeting moments so you can hold onto them forever. But when is the best time to schedule your session?
Many photographers emphasize that newborn sessions must be done within the first two weeks of life. While we agree that the first two weeks are a wonderful time for a session, we also believe something even more important: moms should feel ready. Your comfort, your healing, and your emotions matter just as much as photographing these moments on a strict timeline. If the thought of leaving the house before two weeks postpartum feels overwhelming, we want you to know—you have not missed your chance.
Why the First Two Weeks Are Popular for Newborn Photography
There’s a reason why many photographers encourage families to schedule their newborn session within the first fourteen days. Babies at this age tend to be extra sleepy, naturally curling into those classic womb-like poses. They are typically more flexible, allowing for those peaceful, tucked-in portraits many parents adore.
If you’re feeling up to it, the first two weeks are a great time for your session. But if you’re not? That’s okay.
What If You Need More Time?
At Nicole Bielenin Photography, we understand that every birth and postpartum experience is different. Some moms feel ready within days, while others need more time to rest and adjust. Whether you’re recovering from a C-section, navigating the emotional highs and lows of new motherhood, or simply need more time to feel like yourself again, please know that waiting a little longer does not mean you’ve missed your opportunity for beautiful newborn photos.
As a trusted Zionsville newborn photographer, we’ve photographed many babies who were three, four, even five weeks old—and guess what? The images are just as stunning, just as emotional, just as cherished.
What Changes in Newborn Photography After Two Weeks?
If you schedule your session when your baby is between two and six weeks old, here’s what you can expect:
- A bit more alertness – Older newborns may be awake for parts of their session, which means we can capture more eye contact and expressions.
- More stretching and movement – Your baby may not curl up quite as tightly, but they’ll still be tiny and snuggly.
- A little extra patience – Some poses may take a bit more time, but as professionals, we know exactly how to soothe and settle babies of all ages.
Because we take more of a lifestyle, baby-led approach to photographing and posing newborns, none of this is going to stop us from doing our thing and getting beautiful imagery!
Prioritizing Your Well-Being
Our goal is to ensure that your newborn session is not only beautiful but also an enjoyable experience. When you’re relaxed and comfortable, it translates into your images. That’s why we’re flexible with timing, working around you—not just the baby’s age.
Tori, our lead photographer in Indiana, has worked with newborns of all ages and understands that every family’s journey is unique. Whether you come in at 8 days or 28 days, she’ll capture the love, connection, and tenderness that makes this stage of life so special.
You Haven’t Missed Your Moment
If you’re a new parent looking for a Zionsville newborn photographer, take a deep breath. Your baby is still little. Your story is still unfolding. And we’re here to help you document it—whenever you feel ready.
If you’re expecting or have recently welcomed your little one, we’d love to help you plan a stress-free newborn session. Reach out today to schedule your session and preserve these fleeting moments forever.
And if you’re looking for a newborn photographer outside of Indiana, we’re also in Dallas, Memphis, and Northwest Florida! Find your branch here!
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