When’s the Best Time to Take Newborn Photos? (Seattle Newborn Photographer Tips)

Hi, I’m Atsumi—Seattle newborn photographer, mom, and big believer in capturing the quiet beauty of your baby’s first days. If you're expecting or just welcomed your little one, you might be wondering…

“When is the best time to take newborn photos?”

Let’s talk about that—because these sleepy, snuggly days pass by faster than you can imagine.

The Sweet Spot: 7 to 21 Days Old

As a general rule, I recommend scheduling your newborn photography session between 7 and 21 days after birth. This is when babies are:

Sleepy and snuggly
Still love being curled into those cozy, womb-like poses
Less sensitive to touch and movement
Easier to photograph with minimal disruption

This early window allows me to create timeless, softly lit portraits in my warm and welcoming Lake Tapps studio, located just outside of Seattle.

**But Here’s the Truth: It’s Not Just About Timing**

While that 7–21 day range is ideal, it’s not a hard rule. I regularly photograph babies who are 3, 4, even 6 weeks old—and the results are just as beautiful.

In fact, I personally love working with slightly older newborns, especially for first-time parents. Here’s why:

Babies tend to feed more efficiently
They’re often more settled into a natural rhythm
Parents are usually a bit more rested and comfortable by this point

Whether your baby is 10 days or 30 days old, I create a baby-led session that’s calm, flexible, and tailored to your family’s unique needs.

What to Expect at Your Seattle Newborn Photo Session

My studio is fully stocked with soft wraps, minimal props, and cozy setups to keep your baby comfortable and secure. You don’t need to bring anything (except diapers and maybe a snack for yourself!).

Parents often relax on the couch, sip a coffee, or even take a nap behind the privacy curtain while I gently work with your baby. And if you want to be part of the portraits, we’ll keep it natural, simple, and full of connection.